Mattel Celebrates Ken's 65th Anniversary with Expedia Partnership

The iconic Barbie doll's boyfriend will embark on 65 new adventures to inspire fans to embrace new beginnings.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 1:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mattel is celebrating the 65th anniversary of the Ken doll by partnering with Expedia. Together, Ken and Expedia will showcase 65 new experiences that encourage fans to try something new and embrace their own adventures. As Expedia's newest brand ambassador, Ken will have a leading role in the travel company's marketing campaigns and social media content.

Why it matters

Ken has been a cultural icon for decades, representing friendship, creativity, and self-expression. This anniversary partnership with Expedia allows Ken to expand his influence beyond the toy aisle and connect with fans in new ways, inspiring them to step out of their comfort zones and explore the world.

The details

To celebrate his 65th anniversary, Ken will be trading in his beach towel for a boarding pass and embarking on 65 new experiences. He'll bring fans along for the ride as Expedia's newest brand ambassador, showcasing how easy and fun it can be to try something new by booking trips and sharing his adventures on social media.

  • Ken first debuted in 1961.
  • The 65th anniversary celebration will take place in 2026.

The players

Ken

The iconic Barbie doll's boyfriend, known for his laid-back Malibu charm and wide range of passions, from airline captain to rock star.

Expedia

A leading online travel booking platform that is partnering with Ken to showcase 65 new experiences and inspire fans to embrace their own adventures.

Nathan Baynard

The vice president and head of Barbie at Mattel.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Since his debut in 1961, Ken has proven his ability to captivate hearts while always remaining true to his fun, playful personality. Now, we're proud to celebrate his 65th anniversary as a moment of reinvention as he steps into uncharted territory.”

— Nathan Baynard, Vice President and Head of Barbie, Mattel

What’s next

Throughout the yearlong celebration, Ken and Expedia will continue to showcase new adventures and experiences, inspiring fans to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery.

The takeaway

Ken's 65th anniversary partnership with Expedia demonstrates the enduring appeal of the iconic Barbie doll's boyfriend and his ability to connect with fans in meaningful ways. By encouraging new experiences and adventures, Ken and Expedia are inspiring a spirit of exploration and personal growth.