SeaWorld Barbie Is Out, Ava DuVernay Barbie Is In

By Ellie Shechet | April 24, 2015 | 11:50pm

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Mattel is discontinuing its Seaworld Trainer Barbie line, Page Six reports, partly in response to concerns from animal rights activists that SeaWorld mistreats its orcas. Simultaneously, the company has announced a new doll to honor director Ava DuVernay, one of six “sheroes” (others include Lucky editor Eva Chen and actress Emmy Rossum) being celebrated by Barbie at the Variety Power of Women Luncheon held today in New York City.

Although SeaWorld has made various attempts to stir public goodwill in the years following the explosive Blackfish allegations, it’s clearly, and rightfully, not working out too well. As for the Ava doll, it unfortunately won’t be hitting stores; all six dolls are one-of-a-kind, and will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to charity. The world probably doesn’t need an Emmy Rossum Barbie doll, but an Ava?! Come on, Mattel!