Mary Portas meets The Most Famous Doll in the World for Channel 4

21 September 2017

Channel 4 has commissioned a one-off documentary investigating the phenomenon of one of the world’s most popular toys – Barbie.

 

Mary Portas will find out more about the little doll whose impact has reached every corner the world. Barbie, along with her stylish friends and boyfriend Ken, has shown off a plethora of fashions since her debut in 1959, and inspired youngsters in over 150 jobs: from police officer to pilot to President of the United States. Some say her array of careers has subtly introduced young minds to the hopes of the feminist movement, while critics claim the dolls perpetuate unrealistic standards upon impressionable young women. Mary hopes to find out just how Barbie fits into the 21st century’s expectations of womanhood.

 

With unique access to Mattel Inc, the programme sees Mary head to the US, making a pilgrimage to the place where founder Ruth Handler started it all. On both sides of the pond, Mary meets experts, collectors and fans young and old to find out what has made the iconic toy become the worldwide multi-billion dollar business we know today. But, with a growing mix of amusements vying for children’s imaginations, what does the future hold for the 30cm poseable plastic doll?

 

The 1 x 60’ film is produced by Sundog Pictures under executive producer Dov Freedman. The programme has been commissioned for Channel 4 by Lizi Wootton, Commissioning Editor for Features and Gill Wilson, Head of Features.

 

Barbie: The Most Famous Doll in the World airs Tuesday 3rd October at 9:15pm on Channel 4.