For the second year in a row, Mattel's Day of the Dead Barbie is a hit, but not without controversy.
Mattel introduced the $75 doll in September, and it quickly sold out, just like in 2019. Last year, the response was divided between people who worried that the holiday was being used as a cash grab, and those who were optimistic about the visibility for Mexican Americans, The New York Times reported.
Day of the Dead — or Dia de los Muertos — is a holiday celebrated in Mexico dating back nearly 3,000 years, combining Catholic and Indigenous traditions. Mattel explained back in 2019 that it hoped the Barbie would "honor the holiday for the millions that celebrate and to introduce people not familiar with the tradition to the rich meaning."
Mattel did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.
Both dolls were created by Mexican American designer Javier Meabe.
"I also know how important representation is in our community, and I wanted little girls to see themselves through this doll," he said about his design this year, where he combined his own experiences and memories with research.
Barbie is one of the biggest winners of the pandemic, according to The Wall Street Journal. Mattel Chief Executive Ynon Kreiz said that retail level Barbie sales were up a staggering 50%, which can be partially attributed to parents trying to keep their kids off of screens. Now, Mattel is preparing to keep the momentum going through the holidays.
Take a look at the controversial, sold out doll here.