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American Girl’s Modern Makeover Meets Fan Backlash as Preorders Open

The 40th‑anniversary line shrinks six historical characters into 14.5‑inch, $90 dolls scheduled to ship by May 1.

Overview

  • The Modern Era Collection reimagines Samantha Parkington, Addy Walker, Molly McIntire, Josefina Montoya, Felicity Merriman and Kirsten Larson with contemporary styling.
  • Preorders are live on American Girl’s website following the Feb. 11 announcement.
  • The new dolls are smaller than the original 18‑inch versions, a change paired with updated outfits and proportions that drew broad criticism on Instagram, Reddit and X.
  • Many commenters likened the look to Bratz or weight‑loss drug culture and argued the redesign undermines the characters’ historical identities.
  • A minority of fans welcomed the concept as a way to attract new readers, while Mattel says it is evolving the brand for the next generation without abandoning its storytelling focus.