Is Ruth Handler A-List?
NoB
No — Ruth Handler is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Ranking Timeline
1945F$0.001M
Mattel Co-Founded
Ruth and Elliot Handler start Mattel.
1959B▲▲▲$5M+$4.999M
Barbie Doll Invention
The Barbie doll is invented and becomes a success.
1960B$15M+$10M
Mattel Goes Public
Mattel becomes a publicly traded company.
1968B$30M+$15M
Hot Wheels Launched
Mattel launches Hot Wheels, another successful toy line.
1975B$50M+$20M
Handler Resigns
Ruth Handler resigns from Mattel after controversies.
2002B$80M+$30M
Death
Ruth Handler passes away.
2026B$80M
Barbie's Cultural Impact
Barbie remains a global icon.
Last updated: February 25, 2026