Ruth Handler: From Sex Toys to Barbie – A Controversial Journey

The Complex Story of Ruth Handler: Sex Toys, Financial Crimes, and the Origin of Barbie

The Iconic Barbie Movie and Ruth Handler

In the upcoming Barbie movie, Rhea Perlman plays the beloved character of Ruth Handler, the real-life toymaker who brought Barbie to life. Handler, a legend in the toy business, played a significant role in turning Mattel into a global powerhouse with the introduction of Barbie in 1959. While Perlman’s portrayal may be whimsical, there are certain aspects of Handler’s life that are genuinely portrayed in the film.

A Trailblazer in Business and Breast Cancer Survivor

One significant detail highlighted in the movie is Handler’s mastectomy, a result of her battle with breast cancer in the 1970s. Handler, utilizing her extensive knowledge of plastics from her years in the toy business, created prosthetic devices for other breast cancer survivors like herself. This initiative led to the establishment of a successful business called Nearly Me, which still operates today. Handler’s experiences with breast cancer demonstrate her resilience and ability to turn personal adversity into an opportunity to help others.

A Clash of Finances and Controversial Times

The film also touches upon the financial controversies that engulfed Handler and Mattel, resulting in her alleged forced departure from the company. The scandal involved accusations of falsifying business records to manipulate the market price of Mattel stock. In 1978, Handler, along with four other former Mattel executives, was indicted on conspiracy charges related to these financial irregularities. The accusation against Handler and her subsequent legal battle showcased the struggles and consequences of her conflicting personal and professional choices.

Reckoning with Responsibility

Ruth Handler was undeniably a trailblazer, defying societal expectations of the time and shaping the toy industry. However, her biography reveals a complex individual who faced ethical challenges and made mistakes. In Robin Gerber’s 2009 biography, “Barbie and Ruth,” it is highlighted that while Handler displayed exceptional business acumen, she also allowed padding and falsification of company books. Her refusal to take responsibility and her protestations of innocence during the legal proceedings further damaged her reputation. The judge described Handler’s actions as “exploitive, parasitic, and disgraceful to anything in society” and handed her a sentence that combined fines, probation, and community service.

Exploring Philosophical Questions

Handler’s story raises philosophical questions about the nature of responsibility, accountability, and the weight of one’s actions. How should we evaluate the accomplishments of an individual who has achieved remarkable success in the face of societal constraints but has also engaged in unethical behavior? Can we separate an individual’s personal failings from their professional achievements? These questions have no simple answers but prompt us to critically examine the complex nature of human actions and their consequences.

The Origin of Barbie

A Plastic Beginning

The creation of Barbie, one of the most iconic toys in history, is another intriguing aspect of Handler’s life. Ruth Handler and her husband, Elliot Handler, started Mattel in the 1940s, initially focusing on manufacturing home goods using plastics. Through partnerships and a keen entrepreneurial spirit, they expanded their business into creating dollhouse furnishings. It was during this journey that the idea for Barbie began to take shape.

A Sensational Inspiration

Handler’s daughter, Barbara, became the inspiration behind the creation of Barbie. Ruth believed that young girls needed a doll that represented a future adult self rather than focusing solely on infant-like dolls. Specifically, Ruth envisioned a lifelike doll with breasts, challenging societal norms and expectations. The initial idea faced skepticism from Mattel’s male executives, who doubted that mothers would buy such a doll. However, Handler’s persistence paid off, and Barbie was born.

The Controversial Beginnings of Barbie

Barbie‘s inception involved a controversial twist. Handler drew inspiration from a German doll called “Lilli,” which had initially been created as a sex toy and later transformed into a doll. The character behind the “Lilli” doll pursued wealthy men and was intended as a provocative, adult toy. Handler and Mattel took the concept of “Lilli” and tamed it, resulting in the birth of Barbie in 1959. Despite initial skepticism from men, Barbie quickly became a hit among women who saw the doll as an aspirational figure representing independence and self-expression.

The Disputed Origins

The true origins of Barbie remain disputed, with one woman claiming that her late father, Jack Ryan, should receive credit for the doll’s creation. Ann Ryan, daughter of Jack Ryan, argues that her father, then vice president of research and design at Mattel, played a significant role in devising the doll. However, Ruth Handler’s 1994 autobiography, “Dream Doll,” presents her version of the story, asserting her sole responsibility for Barbie‘s creation. The controversy surrounding the doll’s origins adds another layer of intrigue to Ruth Handler’s complex legacy.

Concluding Thoughts and Advice

Ruth Handler’s story is an example of the complex nature of human achievements and the ethical dilemmas individuals may face. While Handler’s entrepreneurial spirit and groundbreaking ideas revolutionized the toy industry, her involvement in financial crimes and controversies tarnished her legacy. This raises important questions about balancing personal ambition, societal expectations, and moral responsibilities.

As we celebrate the iconic Barbie and the impact she has had on generations of children, it is essential to acknowledge the fallibility of those responsible for her creation. It is through reflection and critical examination of these complexities that we can learn valuable lessons about integrity, accountability, and the responsibilities that come with success.

When embracing and celebrating cultural icons, it is crucial to engage in discussions that go beyond the surface level. By understanding the complexities of their origins and the individuals behind them, we gain a deeper appreciation for the human experience and the moral challenges that shape our world.

Ultimately, the story of Ruth Handler and Barbie offers a reminder that even our most cherished icons have multifaceted narratives. It is through critical thinking and open dialogue that we can navigate the complexities of history, our society, and our own choices.

As we continue to enjoy the Barbie movie and celebrate the enduring legacy of this beloved toy, let us be mindful of the multifaceted nature of its origins and the individuals involved. This perspective enriches our understanding and appreciation of the cultural artifacts and icons that shape our world.