A trend since paper dolls began being created in the likeness of famous ballerinas in the 1840s, celebrity dolls of all kinds are popular collectors’ items. Toy makers including Mattel, Franklin Mint, Ideal and Madame Alexander have all created versions of their favorite starlets, models and historical figures over the years.
Founded in 1923, the Alexander Doll Company began producing character dolls advertised under the name “Madame Alexander.” One of the first famous dolls created, a young Queen Elizabeth doll was made in 1937. Madame Alexander’s Scarlett O’Hara doll was also the first doll based on a licensed character.
From the 1930s through the 1980s, Ideal made a wide array of dolls in the likeness of famous child star Shirley Temple. Popular among children and collectors alike, early models were made of composition, while later ones were created from vinyl.
While Barbie now has plenty of celebrity friends, including Prince William and Kate Middleton, Jennifer Lopez and Audrey Hepburn, her first famous friend was supermodel Twiggy! Released in 1967, the doll featured the model’s signature dark lashes and short blond hair.
Throughout the 1990s, Franklin Mint released more than 10 different Marilyn Monroe dolls. The company is also well-known for their Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana and “Gone with the Wind” porcelain dolls.
Whether you have an extensive celebrity doll collection or are just getting started, we recommend choosing your dolls based on the actors, films, musicians and historical figures you love. Located at 6029 N. Northwest Hwy in Chicago, Illinois, Gigi’s Dolls and Sherry’s Teddy Bears, Inc. has a wide variety of celebrity dolls to choose from. Have a particular star you are looking for? Contact us at 773-594-1540.
6029 N Northwest Hwy | Chicago, IL 60631
