Aaliyah Honored with Custom Barbie on Her 46th Birthday
Aaliyah, the beloved Princess of R&B, has been memorialized with a custom Barbie doll unveiled on what would have been her 46th birthday. The announcement was made by the official Barbie Instagram account on Thursday, January 16, celebrating her enduring legacy.
“One in a Million,” read the Instagram post, accompanied by a sunglasses emoji. “Today on Aaliyah’s birthday, Barbie honors the Princess of R&B’s unmatched legacy as a once-in-a-generation talent. A rising star who left an unforgettable mark on pop culture, the Aaliyah Barbie doll remembers her iconic style, keeping her influence alive across generations.”
The Barbie Design team collaborated closely with Aaliyah’s brother, Rashad Haughton, to ensure that the doll authentically captured her essence. According to a press release, this partnership aimed to celebrate her persona and influence in a way that would resonate with fans worldwide.
Iconic Look from “One in a Million”
The Aaliyah Barbie doll is styled in an outfit inspired by her 1996 music video for “One in a Million.” The doll features a black faux leather top paired with matching pants and a vest, accessorized with her signature shades and her iconic hairstyle with a swoop over one eye.
Although pre-sales of the doll have already sold out, fans will have another chance to purchase it starting January 26 at Target for $55. For UK fans, the doll will be available on Amazon.
A Legacy That Endures
Aaliyah’s life was tragically cut short in a plane crash in the Bahamas on August 25, 2001. Despite her untimely passing, her influence on music, fashion, and pop culture continues to be celebrated.
On the anniversary of her death in 2024, her longtime friend and collaborator Missy Elliott paid tribute on social media, writing: “Your IMPACT on music is still being felt & studied by the generations behind you! They LOVE seeing your STYLE & MUSIC was different over 20 years ago & til this day you r still that TRENDSETTER.” She also extended prayers to Aaliyah’s family and the families of others who lost their lives in the crash.
Reflection on Past Relationships
Aaliyah’s former labelmate Ginuwine recently shared insights about their relationship before her death. In a 2023 interview on Drink Champs, the R&B singer clarified that there was no animosity between them but rather a misunderstanding stemming from his decision to leave their shared management company.
“We were all a family — Missy, Timbaland, her [Aaliyah], myself, Magoo, Playa, Tweet — all of us,” Ginuwine explained. “Her and I weren’t seeing eye-to-eye…but we ain’t have no beef or nothing like that.”
Missy Elliott later revealed to Ginuwine that she had a dream where Aaliyah told her to let go of any unresolved issues, offering him a sense of closure.
A Celebration of Aaliyah’s Timeless Impact
As the world remembers Aaliyah with this unique Barbie tribute, her music, style, and spirit continue to inspire generations. The Aaliyah Barbie doll stands as a testament to her unmatched legacy, ensuring her light shines on in the hearts of fans worldwide.
For those eager to own a piece of this tribute, mark your calendars for January 26.
