**Ncuti Gatwa ‘Moved’ as Mattel Unveils Doctor Who Barbie at Comic Con**
Ncuti Gatwa, the latest star to take the helm of the TARDIS in Doctor Who, has spoken of his emotional response to a unique new honour: the creation of a Barbie doll in his likeness. Toy manufacturing giant Mattel has unveiled a new Doctor Who Barbie as part of its milestone appearance at MCM London Comic Con, sparking both excitement and a touch of nostalgia for fans of the iconic series and the world’s most famous doll.
This release marks the first time Doctor Who has been commemorated with such a figure in the extensive Barbie collection. The Fifteenth Doctor Barbie is modelled directly on Gatwa, and meticulously replicates his on-screen appearance. The doll is dressed in a stylish ensemble reminiscent of Gatwa’s version of the Time Lord—complete with striped shirt, tailored trousers, a long brown overcoat, and pristine white trainers. According to Mattel, this design is intended to encapsulate the “bold, expressive energy” that Gatwa brings to the role.
In an open display of enthusiasm, Gatwa described the moment he first saw the doll. “Barbie is iconic, so to see a Barbie iteration of the Doctor was emotional, surreal, incredible, and I can’t wipe the smile off my face,” he said. Reflecting on the symbolic significance of the doll, he added, “I hope kids out there are able to enjoy the doll and see themselves in it and think ‘I can do anything.’” This sentiment resonates strongly at a time when representation and inclusivity in toys and media are under growing scrutiny.
Not content to stop there, Mattel has also produced a Barbie doll inspired by Ruby Sunday, Doctor Who’s current companion played by Millie Gibson. The Ruby Sunday doll carefully captures Gibson’s likeness and features her wearing a fur-trimmed coat, vibrant red shirt, plaid skirt, as well as black tights and boots. Mattel’s design notes suggest the doll reflects Ruby’s “style and spirit”, showcasing the character’s contemporary edge.
Both the Doctor and Ruby Barbie dolls will be available for pre-order starting Friday through Mattel Creations and Amazon UK. Shoppers interested in obtaining the figures in person or from other platforms will be able to find them at major retailers—including Argos, Hamleys, Harrods and Very—starting in late July. This broad release strategy hints at high expectations for demand, as Doctor Who enjoys a multigenerational following and Barbie has achieved near-universal recognition across decades.
At MCM London Comic Con, Mattel Creations has gone all out for its inaugural appearance, setting up interactive brand spaces throughout the event, which runs for three days this weekend at the Excel London. Attendees are being treated to designer meet-and-greets, abundant photo opportunities showcasing the new dolls, as well as dedicated gaming zones. Fans have the rare chance to immerse themselves in the convergence of two pop culture giants—Doctor Who and Barbie.
The collaboration between Mattel and the Doctor Who franchise signifies more than just a commercial marriage of two well-known brands. For many fans and collectors, it represents an era where cherished characters are being reimagined to inspire the next generation, and where beloved toys reflect the diversity of contemporary culture. Observers have noted that such moves not only drive nostalgia among older collectors but also open doors for younger audiences to imagine themselves in new roles.
As the toys reach shop shelves later this summer, the hope articulated by Gatwa—that children see themselves represented and empowered through play—will certainly be put to the test. In the meantime, MCM London Comic Con offers a glimpse into the immediate, emotional impact such thoughtful creations can have on both stars and fans alike.
With Mattel continuing to expand its portfolio into licensed figures across film and television, it is likely only a matter of time before other iconic characters are given the Barbie treatment. For now, Doctor Who fans have something extraordinary to celebrate, as the fusion of intergalactic adventure and timeless play comes vividly to life on both screen and shelf.