Pat Houston approves Whitney Houston Barbie doll

Pat Houston, sister-in-law of Whitney Houston, personally approved the new Barbie doll inspired by the late singer’s iconic look.

The Barbie Signature Doll recreates Houston’s glamorous outfit from the “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” music video, complete with her signature curls, red lipstick, and sequined bodysuit.

Houston’s family has long controlled her estate, and Pat Houston has played a key role in decisions about her legacy. This includes licensing deals and public tributes. The approval of the doll reflects the family’s careful curation of Houston’s image. Barbie’s parent company, Mattel, announced the doll earlier this year as part of its Inspiring Women series, which honors trailblazing women.

The doll’s release comes amid renewed public interest in Houston’s music. A biopic about her life, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” was released in 2022, and her music has seen a resurgence on streaming platforms. Pat Houston’s involvement ensures the doll stays true to the singer’s memory.

Barbie has a long history of releasing celebrity-inspired dolls, but this one is part of a broader effort to celebrate Black icons. The doll will be available for pre-order later this month, with Mattel donating a portion of proceeds to the Whitney E. Houston Foundation for Children.

For fans, the doll offers a tangible connection to Houston’s legacy. It also highlights how her family continues to shape her public image decades after her death. The approval from Pat Houston underscores the importance of authenticity in such tributes.