Photo: Sasha/Hulton Archive/Getty, Barbie
Barbie is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with a doll honoring late Chinese-American Hollywood iconAnna May Wong, who died in 1961.
Launched Monday, the figurine reflects Wong’s synonymous aesthetic while also telling the story of her impact on film and television (she was the first American-Asian to lead a U.S. show with her role inThe Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong).
Lisa McKnight, the executive president and global head of Barbie & Dolls, noted in a press release that Wong was the “perfect fit” for the brand’s Inspiring Women Series, which honors past and present women trailblazers.
The Anna May Wong doll, dressed in a red gown designed with a golden dragon and sheer cape, as well as gold earrings, showcases blunt bangs and smokey eye makeup, two signature looks of theThe Toll of the Seastar.
Barbie
The Barbie team also collaborated with Wong’s niece Anna Wong, who, unlike her aunt, did not aspire to be on camera, but instead chose to advocate for AAPI equality and representation behind the scenes.
“I’ve always been proud of my aunt’s impact on Hollywood and her strength to break down roadblocks in the way of her goals. She helped more Asian-Americans see themselves on screen, leading to other incredible feats for the AAPI community,” noted Anna of the “incredible tribute” in a press release.
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Wong’s cavernous influence has not gone unnoticed and has been commended in the most history-making ways.
Last October, she received her quarter, making it the fifth coin in the United States MintAmerican Women Quarters™ Program, which honors trailblazing women.
source: people.com
