11 Shocking Things You Never Knew About Barbie Doll

5. Barbie’s breakup with Ken

Things between Barbie and longtime boyfriend Ken faded out in 2004. Cynics called the split a desperate publicity stunt by the manufacturer, Mattel Inc.

6. Barbie and Ken were named after real people

In fact, they were named after Ruth’s children, Barbara and Kenneth Handler. So arguably, the most famous couple of all time are named for real life siblings.