Mattel marks 40 years of the American Girl Brand
Mattel announced that American Girl is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of storytelling, community, and empowerment with its American Girl Modern Era Collection and announcing the brand’s first novel for adults, Samantha: The Next Chapter. The novel featuring American Girl Historical Character Samantha Parkington as an adult, written by New York Times Bestselling author Fiona Davis, will be released by American Girl Publishing in the U.S. and Canada on Oct. 13, 2026. The brand is also introducing an unprecedented exploration of the American Girl archives with another American Girl Publishing title, The Making of American Girl, releasing May 12, 2026.
Timeless stories and immersive experiences
“For our 40th anniversary, we’re celebrating the timeless stories and immersive experiences that have had a lasting impact on the American Girl legacy and its multigenerational fans,” said Jamie Cygielman, Global Head of Dolls, Mattel. “From the start, we’ve been honored to spark and nurture deep emotional connections with characters girls love and grow up alongside. As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue evolving for the next generation while staying true to telling stories that act as both windows and mirrors, empowering girls to see themselves as the heroines of their own story.”
American Girl Dolls: Modern Era Collection
American Girl is unveiling the American Girl Modern Era Collection, a new line of dolls that reimagines the brand’s beloved historical characters through a contemporary lens. Historic characters get a playful update.
The American Girl Modern Era Collection includes:
- Samantha Parkington – Always a trendsetter, Samantha Parkington gets a playful update featuring plaid patterns, statement bows, and golden accents that give a nod to her 1904 charm.
- Addy Walker – Inspired by the original style of the courageous Addy Walker in 1864, this doll pairs striped pink and patterned blue for a pretty paneled look, accented with accessories honoring her heritage.
- Molly McIntire – The standout with winning spirit, Molly McIntire gets a mod update with statement glasses, argyle accents, and a signature beret, reimagined from her 1944 look.
- Josefina Montoya – The hopeful and helpful Josefina Montoya gets a contemporary update with crimson-ruffled shorts, colorful primrose accents, and cowgirl boots, inspired by her life in 1824.
- Felicity Merriman – Channeling Felicity Merriman’s 1774 boldness and bravery, this doll features rose-print satin, coral-colored beads, and equestrian-inspired accessories.
- Kirsten Larson – Honoring Kirsten Larson’s 1854 prairie roots, this doll features floral-print fabric, ruffled details, and delicate embroidery.
American Girl Publishing: The Making of American Girl
The Making of American Girl, available now for pre-sale and launching May 12, 2026, was created for devoted fans and anyone who is curious to peek behind the scenes at how American Girl came to be.
American Girl Publishing: Samantha: The Next Chapter
The brand is announcingSamantha: The Next Chapter, a new novel for adults, available for pre-sale today and arriving wherever books are sold on Oct. 13, 2026. The novel bridges old and new with Samantha’s next chapter of life, inviting readers to discover a new era as she navigates adulthood.
Throughout the milestone year, American Girl will continue rolling out new products, stories, retail experiences, special collections, and exciting partnerships to commemorate its 40th anniversary, each designed to celebrate the brand’s rich heritage while inspiring the next generation.