In the early 90s, Mattel researchers were tasked with making Ken a contemporary figure worthy of his iconic counterpart. Their research in underground party communities resulted in Earring Magic Ken, who was decked out in club clothes and a necklace that highly resembled a cock ring. His queer fashion made the doll extremely popular with gay men, and Mattel tried to avoid scandal by recalling him only six months after his initial release. It is widely believed that Earring Magic Ken is the best-selling Ken doll to date.