A decade after the launch of LEGO Friends, the toy juggernaut has released a new range of new diverse characters, to help more children feel represented.

The eight new main characters are aim to be more inclusive of gender, culture, ethnicity, physical traits and abilities, non-visible disabilities and neurodivergence.

The new universe of characters includes those with limb difference, Down syndrome, anxiety, vitiligo and a dog with a wheelchair.

Meet The New LEGO Friends Characters

It’s hope the new characters will help spark a passion for children to become better friends, and provide emotional and social development through play.

“We want children to see the new LEGO Friends Universe, both in the physical product and the content we’re launching in 2023, as a reflection of their own friendships and to see the characters as authentic,” explained Head of Product, LEGO Friends at the LEGO Group Tracie Chiarella.

“We have chosen to evolve the LEGO Friends Universe and TV show to be more inclusive in order to give parents and kids more tools to navigate friendship and their emotions as they grow and learn.”