Barbie fans are in for a treat as Mattel teams up with TOKYOPOP to bring the iconic doll into the world of manga. The partnership between the global toy giant and the popular graphic novel publisher marks a new chapter for Barbie, a franchise that consistently creates new and enjoyable content. Starting in 2026, fans can expect original manga-style graphic novels that promise to deliver fresh, imaginative adventures tailored for children aged 8-12.
This venture hints at Mattel’s growing interest in expanding its storytelling across new mediums. By blending Barbie with TOKYOPOP’s creative expertise, this project has the potential to resonate with a new generation of fans while staying true to the doll’s iconic roots.
Barbie’s New Manga Era Begins
A Fresh Take on Barbie Through Manga-Style Storytelling
The collaboration between Mattel and TOKYOPOP offers an exciting opportunity to explore Barbie’s world in a way never seen before. Manga is known for its unique art style and stories, and is the perfect medium to showcase Barbie’s adventures while appealing to a younger audience. The upcoming manga will likely explore themes of friendship, ambition, and creativity, which are all qualities that have defined Barbie since her debut in 1959.
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While this is not Barbie’s first foray into comics, it might be her boldest. Over the years, Barbie has graced screens and shelves with movies, books, and comics, but adopting a manga style could attract fans of Japanese pop culture while expanding her already extensive fanbase.
Hot Wheels Joins the Ride in Mattel’s New Manga Universe
This deal is not just limited to Barbie. The partnership also includes original manga adaptations for Mattel’s Hot Wheels brand, proving an even bigger effort to redefine their iconic properties. By targeting children aged 8-12, Mattel and TOKYOPOP are tapping into a demographic that thrives on imagination in stories and fun visuals.
The 2026 launch aligns with a growing global interest in manga and graphic novels, ensuring that these adaptations will have an even larger audience. This collaboration is a brilliant move for Mattel to connect with fans beyond toys and movies, offering layered, story-driven experiences that celebrate their beloved brands like Barbie in new ways. With this ambitious crossover, Mattel and TOKYOPOP are set to leave a long-lasting impression on both the manga and toy industries.
Source: @TOKYOPOP on X
Barbie
Barbie is a multimedia franchise that started with the original Barbie doll created in 1959 by Ruth Handler, who would go on to be a co-founder of Mattel. Over a billion Barbie dolls have been sold since then, which spawned several TV shows, movies, video games, and other merchandise. In 2023, a Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie was released.
- Created by
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Ruth Handler
- Cast
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Margot Robbie
, Kelly Sheridan
, Jodi Benson
, America Young - TV Show(s)
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Barbie: Dreamtopia
, Barbie: It Takes Two
, Barbie: Life in the City
, Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
, Barbie: Life in the Dreamhouse - Character(s)
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Barbie Millicent Roberts
, Ken Sean Carson - Video Game(s)
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Barbie (1984)
, Barbie: Explorer
, Barbie: Game Girl
