Barbie Unveils Doll Honoring the Late Mexican Singer Juan Gabriel

Toy company Mattel has released a new Barbie doll to honor the late Mexican singer Juan Gabriel as part of its Barbie Signature Music series.

This special edition Barbie is dressed in a black and gold bolero jacket and bodysuit, complete with golden accents. The outfit is a nod to the colorful mariachi costumes that Juan Gabriel, affectionately known as “El Divo de Juárez,” often wore.

“The gold trim on Barbie doll’s suit is inspired by this stylistic heritage. From a bolo tie choker to a microphone to help her sing along to the songs of ‘El Divo de Juárez,’ Barbie doll’s beautiful look celebrates the nearly 4-decade-long career of a true musical legend,” stated Mattel.

The design of the outfit is based on what Juan Gabriel wore during his iconic 1990 concert at El Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City.

“Juanga,” as he was known by his fans, broke barriers as the first commercial singer to perform at Mexico City’s prestigious Palace of Fine Arts, a venue traditionally reserved for classical musicians. His album “Juan Gabriel Live from the Palace of Fine Arts” set record sales.

Known for his flamboyant performances, Juan Gabriel showcased his deep love for Mexican culture through both his music and his fashion.

Born Alberto Aguilera Valadez in the western state of Michoacan, Juan Gabriel passed away on August 28 at the age of 66.

He was Mexico’s leading singer-songwriter and a top-selling artist. His ballads about love and heartbreak, alongside his vibrant mariachi tunes, became anthems across Latin America, Spain, and among Spanish speakers in the United States.

Juan Gabriel had a profound impact on his fans, often bringing them to tears with his emotional renditions of songs like “Hasta Que Te Conoci” (“Until I Met You”) and “Amor Eterno” (“Eternal Love”). His hit “Querida” (“Dear”) dominated Mexico’s charts for an entire year.

The “Juanga” inspired Barbie is now available for purchase at Amazon, Walmart, Target, and the Mattel Shop, retailing at $55.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.