The classic blue-eyed, dark-haired Ken Barbie doll is now in good company. Toy manufacturer Mattel has introduced 15 new looks for the male doll, including different skin tones, body shapes, and hair styles, in an effort to appear to appeal to young, diverse generations, The Associated Press reported.
Ken's makeover comes nearly a year after Barbie underwent a similar makeover.
Ken, who was introduced to the world about 56 years ago, hasn't evolved much over the decades. But now, he's sport new hairdos, such as cornrows and man buns, flaunt one of seven skin tones, and be sold in three body shapes: "slim," "broad," and "original."
But that's not all. Ken will also receive an updated wardrobe, such as skinny ties, plaid shirts, and graphic tees.
Mattel's latest changes to its male doll reflects the company's newfound thinking in a digital age--when kids are often opting for the next iPad over more conventional toys, such as dolls. In the first three months of the year, Barbie sales were down 13 percent in the first three months of the year compared with the same period a year ago.
Mattel also has big plans, though, to get its foot in the entertainment sector. A live-action Barbie movie is in the works for next year.
Some of the new $10 Ken dolls were already rolled out to shops and online stores on Tuesday, Mattel Inc. said. Expect all of them, however, to be on store shelves by the holidays.