Surprising facts about Barbie (she’s kept quiet all this time)
<p><strong>1. Her fame is global, but she’s a small town girl.</strong> According to brand lore, Barbara “Barbie” Millicent Roberts was officially born on March 9, 1959, in the fictional town of Willows, Wisconsin.</p>
<p><strong>2. She’s just one of seven kids.</strong> Over the years, her siblings for sale have included: Skipper, Stacie, Chelsea, Krissy, Tutti and Todd.</p>
<p><strong>3. Barbie digs younger men.</strong> Her longtime BF Ken is two years younger than Barbie, debuting in toy stores in 1961.</p>
<p><strong>4. She has had more than 150 careers</strong>, including paleontologist, Canadian Mountie, McDonald’s cashier, Desert Storm medic, business executive, secretary, Catwoman, and, regrettably, rapper.</p>
<p><strong>5. She’s been to space three times.</strong> Astronaut Barbie debuted in space in 1965 (four years before the moon landing), then returned in 1986 and 1994.</p>
<p><strong>6. Her house is a zoo. </strong>Barbie has owned more than 40 pets, including 21 dogs, 14 horses, three ponies, six cats, a parrot, a chimpanzee, a panda, a lion cub, a giraffe, and a zebra.</p>
<p><strong>7. She’s got friends in the fashion industry.</strong> Gucci, Versace, Vera Wang, Dolce & Gabbana, and Givenchy have all contributed designs to Barbie’s wardrobe.</p>
<p><strong>8. Her wardrobe is house-sized.</strong> Barbie has had more than one billion outfits (with shoes to match) designed for her.</p>
<p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>
<p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/true-stories-lifestyle/entertainment/8-Things-You-Probably-Didnt-Know-About-Barbie" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>
