barbie has younger sisters (Skipper, Stacie, Kelly, Krissy, the short-lived twins, Tutti and Todd), cousins (Francie and Jazzie), friends (Midge, Miko, Whitney, Nikki, Devon, Kira, to name a few) and of course, the steadfast Ken. But her parents played a minimal — and totally off-stage — role; no parent bonecas were ever produced. She is an agent on her own behalf, a singular sensation, living her own life, forging her own destiny. In all the scenarios in which she has played, the one role barbie never took on was that of wife, even though Mattel has made numerous bridal ensembles for her. Ken, for all his virile good looks and affable charm, really is an accessory.

Indeed, Mattel announced on Feb. 12, 2010, that barbie and Ken, sweethearts for 43 years, are splitting up. According to the press release, the pair had grown apart and “needed some time alone” though “they would remain friends.” Whether the dividido, dividir is real or a publicity stunt to spark interest in the doll remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: to those in the know, Barbie’s main act was, is and will always be solo.