16 Questions for the ‘Real-Life Barbie,’ Valeria Lukyanova
Anna Nemtsova talks to Ukrainian model Valeria Lukyanova, who’s developed a worldwide following for her doll-like appearance.
Whitehotpix/Zuma
Ukranian model Valerie Lukyanova has become Internet-famous for her wild, alien-like appearance and “spiritual teachings.” Dubbed the “Real-Life Barbie” for her physical similarities to a Barbie doll, Lukyanova, who will not disclose her real age, has amassed a massive YouTube following over the past few years. This month, she’s the focus of a Vice documentary, Space Barbie, that explores her bizarre life and beliefs. She tells Anna Nemtsova about her “out-of-body” travel, people’s reaction to her appearance—and why she’ll never have children.
This interview has been translated from Russian.
How do you feel that people call you a “real-life Barbie”?