Mattel

Mattel Dumps “SeaWorld Trainer Barbie” Amid Animal Rights Backlash

“SeaWorld Trainer Barbie” is going to need to freshen up her resume.

A Mattel spokesperson has confirmed that the company has ceased production of the doll and the rest of its SeaWorld-related merchandise.

"We're not making the doll anymore," Alex Clark told NBC News. "Consumers may find it on retail shelves but we are not shipping and not producing the doll."

Clark didn’t name a specific motivation behind the move.

"A number of factors go into a decision like that," he said. "Their licensing deal expired and we've elected not to renew it."

However, Mattel’s decision follows a growing backlash against the aquatic theme park over its treatment of orcas and the safety of its trainers.

In 2010, park guests witnessed a SeaWorld trainer get drowned by an orca. In 2013, a documentary called “Blackfish” also sparked public outcry over allegations that the captive whales were being mistreated.

Animal activist groups praised the move by Mattel.

"It is very fitting that Mattel would dump Sea World Trainer Barbie," PETA spokeswoman Stephanie Shaw said to NBC News. "She's now able to maintain her animal-friendly image."

Back in November, the company announced that attendance and revenue continued to decline in the fourth quarter of 2014.

“Clearly, 2014 has been a challenging year, but I am confident we are taking the necessary steps to address our near term challenges and position the company to deliver value over the long term,” SeaWorld CEO Jim Atchison said at the time in a statement on the park’s website.

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