For whatever reasons, some Barbie friends get rechristened outside the United States. Even Ken hasn't been immune, as he is named "Bob" in Brazil. These are the ones I know about. I don't own all of the "evil twins," "doppelgangers, or "alter egos," but of the ones I have I will show you photos. Here is the list, up through 1999:
Sensations Becky is named Bibi in Europe.
Sensations Bopsy is named Becky in Europe (just to confuse you!).
Kayla is named Alexia in Europe.
Lara Morelli-Strauss is named Marie in Europe.
Midge is named Viky in South America.
Miko Morrison/Kira is named Marina in South America.
Shani is named Maoni in Europe.
Tara Lynn is named Tina in South America.
Teresa Rivera is named Lia and then Debra in South America.
Tori Burns is named Susie in Europe and Vicky in South America, who is not the same as Midge/Viky!
Whitney is named Princess Laura in Europe and Withney in South America.
The situation gets even worse with little Kelly's friends!
Chelsie is named Shelli in Asia, who is not the same as Shelly in Europe!
Melody is named Susie in Europe and Meron in Asia.
Jenny is named Julie in Europe.
Marissa is named Peggy in Asia.
Kayla is named Cherry in Japan.
Nia is named Tamera in Europe.
Tamika is named Tabitha in Europe.
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I actually prefer "Bibi" for this 1988 Sensations Barbie friend,
since Mattel has used the name "Becky" for its dolls a number of times.
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Although I think Bopsy is one of the prettiest Barbie friends ever made,
I don't care for her name.
It seems to imply not just bouncing ponytails,
but also bouncing breasts. I prefer the European "Becky" (see other photo).
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Lara should not be confused with Laura (or Tutti's friend Lori from 1970!)
and Marie should not be confused
with Marie Osmond or Generation Girl Mari from 2000.
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Both boxes were used to sell Jewel Secrets Barbie's brunette friend,
who also had two names, making a total of four variations.
Only in the box does Whitney/Laura wear her bolero backwards;
no one wears a jacket this way in real life.
 | It's my theory that the 1988 Sensations Becky doll from Europe
became 1997's Share-a-Smile Becky. Note how much they look alike. |
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