California's Mattel Inc. launched a publicity campaign, saying its popular Ken doll is trying to woo back the heart of the blonde plastic bombshell, Barbie.

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Seven years ago the Hollywood company announced the plastic Malibu couple were parting ways, KABC-TV reported Monday.

Ken makes his heartfelt case on Twitter, Facebook and through billboards throughout Southern California, the TV station reported.

The doll couple's 43 years of bliss was cut short by the arrival of Blaine, the Australian surfer who captured Barbie's heart.

"There's something about the romanticism of the Australian. They can take any man's woman away, even Barbie," Tony Nunez, an Alhambra resident, said.

"He should go after her. She's hot. She's been around a while, but she's hot," Donnie Marhefka of Hollywood said.

"Go out with Barbie, but make sure you have a (prenuptial) agreement," Bob Ambrose of Grand Rapids, Mich., said.

"There are plenty of (dolls out there). Here's one," said Sara Bergman, visiting from Sweden, of herself, illustrating her message by grabbing her blonde hair.

Mattel said Monday, "Ken is on a mission to prove to Barbie that, while they are plastic, their love is real. We know Barbie is listening and this epic love story is far from over."