The Debbie Allen Barbie, a tribute to the celebrated dancer, choreographer, actress, and director whose career has spanned more than five decades, is part of Mattel’s Barbie Inspiring Women Series. The doll, designed by Carlyle Nuera, honors her pioneering contributions to the performing arts and lasting impact on representation in the entertainment industry. She also runs the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, an institution committed to making dance and the performing arts more accessible to young people and underrepresented communities.

This multi-hyphenate entertainer first gained widespread recognition in the 1980s for…