Shortly after her introduction in 1959, Barbie received a boy friend Ken who has his own line of activities, careers, and hobbies and the clothing and accessories to accompany them. Ken has been by Barbie's side for nearly all of her 50+ years, though the two went their separate ways for a few years in 2004. The couple, however, is back together again, sharing good times and all the material goods necessary for a well appointed doll and her date.