The Ty Inc. dolls that were named Sasha and Malia but were in no way at all meant to be Sasha and Malia Obama have been retired and renamed, thus bringing the saga of the Obama Dolls to its conclusion. If you remember, the company originally claimed the dolls, Sweet Sasha and Marvelous Malia, were inspired by the Obama girls, but later backed off after they raised the ire of First Lady (and Mom) Michelle Obama. Since then, Ty has distanced themselves from the Obamas. The announcement was made via the company's website which also included this statement from founder Ty Warner:

In deference to the wishes of the First Family, Ty Inc. has officially retired the Ty Girlz names Marvelous Malia and Sweet Sasha. We have renamed the dolls Marvelous Mariah and Sweet Sydney. more ›

Looks like word about Oak Brook-based Ty, Inc. selling Sasha and Malia dolls has made its way to the White House, and Michelle Obama is not happy. Ty is insisting that the dolls are not supposed to represent the Obama girls, and that the names were chosen at random simply because "they are beautiful names." But the First Lady isn't buying any of that crap. Through her press secretary, Mrs. Obama said that it is "inappropriate to use young, private citizens for marketing purposes." Maybe it's just us, but we don't think it is wise to get on Michelle Obama's bad side. more ›

Sure, the dolls happen to have darker skin and dark hair, and the release of the dolls happens to coincide with Malia and Sasha Obama becoming two of the most famous kids in the United States, if not the world. But even so, how can you possibly think a modest, mom-and-pop company like Ty, Inc. would be trying to capitalize on them to make a buck without thinking of kicking back any licensing fees? Perish the thought. more ›