Barbie on the Big Screen (And Your Childhood)

The Brian Lehrer Show | Jul 21, 2023

On Friday, "Barbie" will hit theaters nationwide after limited releases elsewhere. Tanya Stone, program director of the professional writing program at Champlain College in Vermont and author of several books, including, The Good, the Bad, and the Barbie: A Doll's History and Her Impact on Us explains the cultural significance of Barbie's history, why she's been so controversial at times. Plus, listeners call in to share why they are going to see the film and how Barbie has impacted their lives—both good and bad.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

One Refugee’s Journey Through ICE Detention

In 2025, ICE began detaining people at immigration hearings, an unprecedented step. The staff writer Jonathan Blitzer shares the story of one detainee whose life was turned upside down.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

Black and Latino Leaders React to DSA Wins

Jeffery Mays talks about how Black and Latino political leaders feel as members of DSA have gained power in NYC.
The Brian Lehrer Show |

Jewish elected leaders criticize Mamdani’s rhetoric after Upper West Side stabbings

Authorities charged the suspect, Raul Morales, with hate crimes on Friday.
Gothamist |

Cat Cohen's New Comedy Musical 'Broad Strokes'

All Of It with Alison Stewart |
YOU ARE ONLINE