The Cast of “Barbie” vs the Real Dolls That Match Their Characters

The highly anticipated movie Barbie, slated to be released on July 21, 2023, has caused a stir with its star-studded cast and teaser trailer. While details about the plot remain scarce, character posters have been unveiled, giving fans a glimpse into the glamorous world envisioned by writer and director Greta Gerwig. To satisfy our curiosity, we’ve compiled a list of real-life Barbie and Ken dolls that may have influenced the looks of these characters. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our Barbie-inspired character analysis.

Margot Robbie

In a striped swimsuit and cat-eyed sunglasses, Margot Robbie’s Barbie seems to be a faithful recreation of the original 1959 Barbie. The doll itself was based on the ’50s fashion of glamourous old Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling has faced a wave of backlash from critics who described him as “too old” to play the lead as one of the Kens. Fans have since come in his defense, and we, too, have to say that Gosling appears to match classic Ken’s look to a tee. His blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and tanned skin remind us of vintage Ken dolls, particularly the Sun Lovin’ Malibu, which made its debut in 1979.

Dua Lipa

Singer Dua Lipa earned her spot on the cast as a blue mermaid, which just so happens to strongly resemble the Barbie Dreamtopia Mermaid Doll. It’s like they’re twins!

Ritu Arya

Ritu Arya’s Barbie is a Pulitzer prize winner, and she might very well be a journalist. We could see the 2019 News Anchor Barbie doll as the inspiration for the character, as the similarities between the 2 are undeniable.

Emerald Fennell

Emerald Fennell is Barbie’s oldest friend, Midge. This pregnant version appears to have mirrored the one which was taken off the shelves in 2002 and was part of the “Happy Family” set. From the red hair to the purple dress, we can’t imagine any other doll that it could have been based on.

America Ferrera

America Ferrera’s character description is vague, but we found a doll that matches her sense of style. The 2021 Barbie Signature is known for her premium fashion pieces, so we expect nothing less from Ferrera’s Barbie.

Scott Evans

Scott Evan’s Ken could very well be a modernized version of various cowboy Kens which we’ve seen throughout the years from Mattel. One example is the 1993 Western Stampin’ Ken, which features what might’ve been the source of the white cowboy hat the character wears.

Ana Cruz Kayne

Ana Cruz Kayne is a Supreme Court Justice Barbie. However, her fashion style seems to more closely resemble that of the Teresa doll in her 2-piece swimsuit. So perhaps, we might just see a judge in her downtime!

Issa Rae

Barbie is finally president! Well, at least in the movie and thanks to Issa Rae’s character. In real life, Barbie has been running for president since 1992, the time when the first doll of its kind was released by Mattel.

Michael Cera

This is Ken’s best friend, Allan! The doll was first introduced to the public in 1964 and it didn’t last long in stores before being completely replaced by Mattel. Michael Cera now brings him back into the limelight, same striped shirt and all.

Bonus: Kate McKinnon plays a Barbie who is roughed-up after too many hours of playtime.