In what year was Ken introduced?

Ken was introduced in 1961.

Mattel launched Ken as Barbie’s male counterpart on March 11, 1961, two years after Barbie’s 1959 debut. The character was presented as Barbie’s boyfriend and expanded the possibilities for play, clothing, and storytelling within the Barbie world. His first doll wore a red swimsuit and came with accessories such as a towel and sandals.

Ken’s name came from Kenneth Handler, Ruth and Elliot Handler’s son. Barbie was named for their daughter Barbara, making the two dolls’ names a family reference as well as a brand decision. In the fictional biography, Ken’s full name is Kenneth Sean Carson Jr., and he is associated with Barbie’s hometown of Willows, Wisconsin.

Ken’s design changed significantly over time. Early versions had straight arms and felt hair, while later releases introduced molded hair, bendable limbs, new body types, and many occupations. Mattel announced a Barbie-and-Ken split in 2004, followed by a reunion campaign in 2011. The dates 1960, 1962, and 1963 are therefore incorrect for Ken’s original introduction.