Barbie as Rapunzel Top 10 Christmas Toys 2002

Barbie as Rapunzel Top 10 Christmas Toys 2002

The Barbie as Rapunzel doll of 2002 captured the magic of fairy tales and the enduring popularity of Barbie in one elegant package. Released alongside the animated film *Barbie as Rapunzel*, this doll became one of the must-have toys of the year. For children unwrapping her on Christmas morning, it wasn’t just another Barbie—it was a princess adventure waiting to happen.

2002: A Year in Context

2002 in the UK was a year when fantasy and magic dominated children’s entertainment. From *Harry Potter* to *Lord of the Rings*, storytelling was everywhere. Barbie’s Rapunzel movie and doll tapped perfectly into this trend, giving children a chance to relive a classic fairy tale through the world’s most famous doll.

The Doll and the Movie

Mattel’s *Barbie as Rapunzel* doll came dressed in a glittering pink gown with long flowing hair, echoing her magical movie counterpart. The doll included a brush and sometimes accessories, encouraging kids to recreate Rapunzel’s story or invent new adventures. The tie-in animated film brought the character to life, making the doll feel even more special (see Barbie as Rapunzel film).

Christmas Morning Excitement

Parents recall the delight of children brushing and styling Rapunzel’s long hair, dressing her up for fairy-tale adventures, and quoting lines from the film. For many kids, the doll became the centrepiece of imaginative play, combining the glamour of Barbie with the magic of a princess.

Adverts and Popularity

Television adverts tied directly into the animated film, showing Barbie as Rapunzel in action. The cross-media marketing was a huge success, as children begged for both the doll and the movie. By Christmas 2002, Rapunzel was one of the most popular Barbie releases of the decade.

Price Then and Now

In 2002, the Barbie as Rapunzel doll retailed for around £19.99, or about £37 today. Accessories, castles, and additional outfits were sold separately, encouraging families to build up a full fairy-tale world. Today, boxed dolls are collectable, especially first editions tied to the movie.

Why Kids Loved It

Children loved Barbie as Rapunzel because she combined the glamour of Barbie with the timeless appeal of fairy tales. The long hair invited endless styling, while the film gave kids a ready-made story to act out. For many, she became the ultimate princess doll of their childhood.

Nostalgia and Legacy

For adults looking back, Barbie as Rapunzel stands out as one of the most magical dolls of the early 2000s. Collectors and fans remember the excitement of the movie release and the joy of owning a doll that felt part of something bigger. The legacy of the film and doll continues, as Barbie’s fairy-tale movies remain a staple for younger audiences today.

2002 Christmas Memories

Families remember the rush to secure Rapunzel dolls in time for Christmas, as toy shops often sold out quickly. Parents recall the sight of children brushing Rapunzel’s long blonde hair by the Christmas tree, while kids remember staging fairy-tale adventures that lasted well into the New Year.

Conclusion

The Barbie as Rapunzel doll of 2002 was more than just another Barbie—it was a princess icon that tied together fashion, fantasy, and storytelling. With her long golden hair, glittering gown, and movie tie-in, she became one of the most magical gifts of the season. If you remember brushing Rapunzel’s hair or watching the animated film on repeat, revisit the nostalgia in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 2002 archive. See how she compares with the most popular Christmas toys, and explore how Barbie continues to enchant new generations in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 2025 guide. Barbie as Rapunzel remains a shining star of Christmas 2002.

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