Mattel Rosie ODonnell Friend of Barbie Barbie Doll [Toy]

You may not think that the comedienne and talk show host Rosie O'Donnell is the coolest woman on television, but she's definitely the coolest, most realistic doll to be created in years. Rosie is a "Friend of Barbie" collectible--the only one that is realistically proportioned (a bit more bump in her rump, a little more breadth in the bosom, and a realistic, movable waistline). Her features very closely resemble those of the real Rosie O'Donnell. Exhibiting not so much glamour as goodwill, Rosie's wearing white trouser socks and "sensible" shoes that Barbie wouldn't be caught dead in. Interestingly, her blazer is sewn to her vest and slacks, and her vest is stitched shut. Maybe the manufacturer presumes that little girls wouldn't be interested in dressing Rosie in something else every once in a while? To do so, you must cut the threads that bind her. Or, perhaps the manufacturer was simply attempting to preserve the shape of Rosie's outfit. Who knows? That may be a question for Mattel, which was at least thoughtful enough to give the full-figured O'Donnell top billing as a role model--a position she fills easily. --Diane Beall