Take a look through photos of the David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll

It's inspired by the video to his 'Hunky Dory' classic

The David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll
Author: Scott ColothanPublished 30th Jun 2022

Toymakers Mattel have launched a new David Bowie Barbie doll inspired by his iconic ‘Life on Mars?’ music video.

Lifted from David's 1971 album ‘Hunky Dory’, ‘Life on Mars?’ was released as a single in 1973 and accompanying video was filmed by photographer Mick Rock, and it featured the singer in a turquoise suit performing the track against a white backdrop.

The new David Bowie Barbie doll faithfully recreates the look in the video complete with turquoise suit, platform shoes, orange hair and make-up.

It follows the Ziggy Stardust-inspired limited edition David Bowie Barbie that was released in 2019.

David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


David Bowie 'Life on Mars?' Barbie doll


Mattel say of the new doll: "Barbie introduces a second collectible doll honouring the ultimate pop chameleon, David Bowie, who continues to be recognised as a cultural vanguard.

"To commemorate the 50th anniversary of his album, Hunky Dory, this Barbie doll wears an authentic replica of the bespoke powder-blue suit Bowie wore in the ‘Life on Mars?’ music video, complete with a foil-printed pin-stripe shirt, statement tie, and platform shoes.

"Her bold blue eyeshadow and a hairstyle inspired by Bowie’s ‘70s glam era bring this look to life."

Designer Manager Linda Kyaw-Merschon said her team: "wanted to make sure it looked like Barbie, but as Bowie. Not Bowie exactly as himself. We tried to emulate his essence as much as we can. He was quite slender and pale, so we made sure to capture that as best could. Balance is key. Tricky, but I think you'll see what I mean when you see the doll in real life."

Commenting on the packaging, Senior Packaging Designer Laydiana Chiv adds: "The Bowie logo reflects the silver that's found on his tie, and the soft blue wrapping of the packaging is taken from his iconic blue suit and eye shadow makeup.

"We also wanted to insert an Easter egg for Bowie fans by using the checkered distorted pattern from the sweater that Bowie wears on the ‘Hunky Dory’ album cover."

The doll costs $50 (around £41) and is available to order on Mattel’s official website now.

Now read:

David Bowie: A celebration of the much-missed icon

David Bowie's 'Ziggy Stardust' to get 50th-anniversary re-release

How to listen to Greatest Hits Radio:

Listen to Greatest Hits Radio on the free Rayo app, online or on your DAB digital radio. You can also listen on your smart speaker by saying “Play Greatest Hits Radio”.