For Barbie fans, the state of affairs between Barbie and Ken leaves cause for concern. Together for 43 years, the famous couple called it quits in 2004. Many long-time devotees to Barbie games were shocked when the long-term couple split, but others claim to have seen the end coming well before it arrived. Apart now for four years, there are rumors that Barbie and Ken have been spotted together more frequently. These are lending fuel to gossip that the pair might be seeking reconciliation.

The two plastic celebrities met on the set of a television commercial in 1961, and have been together ever since. Despite many well publicized balls, parties, and special occasions, the pair never married and finally reached a point where they needed a bit of distance from each other. There were rumors at the time of the break-up that both parties were seeking attention from newer dolls, but no new relationships ever came from that gossip.

The New Ken In 2004, Ken left Barbie amicably seeking a new single life. In 2006, he returned more muscular and attractive than ever. While nothing is sure regarding the two years he was out of the spotlight, it’s obvious at least some of his time was used to develop a new physique and a new style.

When Ken came back into Barbie’s social arena, he was immediately in competition with other fit, attractive types, and Barbie stayed cool. Or at least she appeared to at the time. She complimented his new look through her publicist, but didn’t seem to return his renewed affections. In 2007, however, Barbie made a few changes in her life. She developed a fitter, more natural look and took on some of the latest styles. She changed careers (again) and made new friends. And most importantly, the small changes she’s made seem to have brought Barbie back into the dating game.

The New Barbie When a woman feels good about herself, her self esteem ratchets up and so does her general state of productivity and happiness. Barbie looks good and feels great, and the men in her life – including Ken – are definitely taking notice.

Over the last year, Barbie and Ken have been seen leaving stores together and appearing together in television spots. The pair was thought to have reconciled in 2006, but all evidence now shows that the two might indeed be reaching a new level of commitment in their relationship in 2008.

The New Relationship Barbie is a new woman, proud of her figure and her accomplishments. On her own for the first time in four decades, she showed the world that a woman can survive and most definitely thrive on her own. Being apart gave both Barbie and Ken a golden opportunity to redefine themselves and seek new beginnings. And now that they have new outlooks on life, they also seem to have a very positive outlook on their future together. We wish them the best of luck.