Mattel Hits Primetime With American Idol Barbie

Hit show American Idol is extending its brand to a younger audience with a new Barbie doll line that uses role play as a key component to the fun.

The new Barbie, targeting kids six to nine, comes complete with her own storyline. The Barbie doll auditions for American Idol, where she meets two talented friends, Simone and Tori. Each doll has her own style and comes with a toy karaoke machine that plays popular songs. The dolls come with an extra outfit, backstage pass and play CD with a CD case. The American Idol Barbie, which hit retails shelves in January, retails for $19.99.

"We are always looking for new ways to extend the [American Idol] brand," said David Luner, VP-licensing, FremantleMedia Americas, the co-producer of American Idol, which formed the licensing deal with Mattel Brands. "Barbie is the perfect fit. We are bringing the role playing environment to girls at home with Barbie."

To complement the doll, a show stage playset opens to reveal a dressing room and a performance area and includes a vanity, chair and extra outfit. The playset retails for $19.99.

Link: Mattel Hits Primetime With American Idol Barbie.

Link: AMERICAN IDOL WANNABE: THE TROUBLED BARBIE DOLL.