“We love seeing it, but we would have also loved the dolls for perfectly reflecting each athlete’s actual body build,” an Instagram user said of the new dolls.
Watch Ilona Maher’s new Barbie doll make history
Rugby star Ilona Maher has teamed up with Mattel to bring to life a new Barbie doll that features a muscular build similar to Maher’s.
A new doll is heading to the Barbie lineup, but not all fans are happy with her physique.
On Monday, October 6, Mattel announced the release of a brand new Barbie doll modeled after U.S. Olympic rugby medalist Ilona Maher. The 29-year-old rugby star, social media personality and body positivity advocate won a bronze medal with the United States Rugby Team at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“Being part of Team Barbie shows girls that confidence is not something to shy away from or possess,” Maher said in a Mattel news release. “I am honored to use my platform to empower the next generation, inspiring them to find the spark of confidence within themselves and unlock their limitless potential.”
Mattel created an all-new body sculpt for the Maher doll. The brand says it “celebrates strength with a straight, athletic torso, visibly defined arms and legs, as well as sculpted core and back muscles.”
However, fans of both Barbie and Maher were quick to grasp the look, most disappointed by the doll’s lack of muscular display.
“We love seeing it, but we would have also loved the dolls to perfectly reflect each athlete’s actual body build,” one Instagram user commented.
“Sad to see these tremendously diverse women’s bodies reduced to Barbie standards,” another commented. “Where are the muscles?!”
Rugby fans want more Canadian players
In addition to Maher’s Doll, Mattel has created three unique dolls for other female rugby stars, including England’s Ellie Kildunne, New Zealand’s Portia Woodman Wickliffe and France’s Nasira Kond. However, these three dolls are not for sale.
Other Barbie and rugby fans were disappointed to see the omission of Canada’s Olivia Apps, who helped her country win a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“I’m obsessed!!!!!” one Instagram user wrote. “But it looks like you missed out on a very important team. Give me the Canadian doll!
How to buy Ilona Maher Barbie Doll
Ilona Maher Barbie Dolls will be available for purchase in 2026.
Greta Cross is a national trends reporter for USA Today. Story idea? please email her gcross@usatoday.com.
