Mattel Announces Ken’s 65th Anniversary, saying Hello to New Beginnings

Mattel celebrates a Ken-sational milestone as Ken® kicks off his 65th anniversary by saying “Hello New Beginnings,” as he sets out to try 65 new things.

Having experienced a resurgence in recent years, Ken is solidifying his status as a champion of friendship and self-discovery and becoming a global cultural icon. Last year, the Barbie brand introduced the Barbie Signature Kenbassadors™ Collection, featuring the LeBron James Kenbassadors Doll. This year and beyond, the brand is excited to introduce more Kenbassadors in continued celebration of figures like Ken who have an outsized impact on culture. 

For decades, Ken has been synonymous with the laid-back charm of Malibu life while touting an impressive range of passions as an airline captain, doctor, sailor, skater, cowboy, lifeguard, rock star, and many more. As a symbol of creativity and self-expression, he’s now expanding his cultural influence as a tastemaker and highly sought-after talent, embracing a new era that expands beyond the toy aisle and is filled with collaborative opportunities and exciting adventures.

“Since his debut in 1961, Ken has proven his ability to captivate hearts while always remaining true to his fun, playful personality,” said Nathan Baynard, Vice President and Head of Barbie, Mattel. “Now, we’re proud to celebrate his 65thanniversary as a moment of reinvention as he steps into uncharted territory.”

As Ken sets off on his 65 new adventures, he was announced earlier this year as Expedia’s newest Brand Ambassador. Together, Ken and Expedia® will show just how fun and easy trying something new can be by planning and booking your trip through Expedia’s all‑in‑one platform. Last night, Ken cemented his status as a cultural icon and star by stepping off the beach and onto one of the biggest stages in advertising as the star in Expedia’s Super Bowl LX spot, titled “Ken’s Going Places.”  

As Ken sets out to try 65 new things in his 65th year, Mattel invites fans to be part of the Ken-ventures by direct messaging @Barbie on Instagram with ideas of where they want to see Ken show up next!