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In a recent captivating intersection between popular culture and royal recognition, Queen Camilla was honored with an iconic representation that bridges generations: her very own Barbie doll. This noteworthy event, intertwining the realms of entertainment, royalty and social advocacy, occurred on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, underscoring the queen’s influential role beyond the ceremonial.
At 76, Queen Camilla, whose husband, King Charles III, is presently withdrawing from royal engagements due to health concerns, received this unique tribute in light of her commendable work with the Women of the World (WOW) Foundation. “You’ve taken about 50 years off (me)… We should all have a Barbie,” she remarked humorously upon being presented with the doll, which bears a striking resemblance to her likeness.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Mathilde, Queen of Belgium, and esteemed actor Helen Mirren, who lent her voice to last year’s cinematic sensation Barbie, featuring stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Despite the film’s commercial success, it secured only one victory out of nine nominations at the preceding week’s Academy Awards. Mirren, aged 78, a previous Best Actress Oscar recipient in 2007 for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in The Queen, was also honored last week with her bespoke Barbie doll, replete with a miniature Oscar statuette.
The doll commemorating Camilla was adorned in a meticulously crafted ensemble, mirroring the queen’s attire, a blue dress by Fiona Clare, complemented by a black cape designed by Amanda Wakeley, and Eliot Zed black boots.
This symbolic gesture took place aboard the WOW Girls Festival Bus, an initiative aimed at fostering gender equality, which made its concluding visit at the Buckingham Palace in London. The gifting of the Barbie doll to Queen Camilla not only celebrates her contributions to societal advancement, but also reflects the ongoing dialogue between cultural icons and figures of historical significance.
With AFP.
