American icon Barbie is celebrating her 50^th birthday today but is coming under renewed criticism for being an unhealthy role model for young girls. Women’s groups and politicians have slammed the doll for having an unrealistic figure that leads to anorexia and bulimia in teenagers.

The doll’s makers Mattel say they have listened to the criticism and are commissioning a new shape Barbie for her second 50 years. Talks are already underway to sign up celebrity endorsement of the new-look doll and both Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama have been approached. A decision on which to use will depend on just how far away from a model figure Mattel want to venture.

There is also talk of changing Barbie’s accessories to match the recession. Her gas-guzzling pink Corvette is to be replaced by a Nissan Micra, her vast wardrobe is to be bought from the charity shop and Ken is to face a prison term after he lost his job and went on an-alcohol fuelled binge that left Barbie needing plastic surgery.

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