Sanrio, the Japanese entertainment company that created Hello Kitty in 1974, said the iconic character is 'not a cat,' but rather a 'little girl.' ...

She has been a UNICEF ambassador, a special envoy for Japan’s Foreign Ministry and the subject of themed restaurants, cafes, two amusement parks and even a maternity hospital.

On the 50th anniversary of Hello Kitty, fans were shocked to learn that their beloved cat-inspired character is, in fact, not a feline at all — she's a little girl.

On Thursday, July 18, Sanrio — the developers of Hello Kitty — confirmed that the beloved character is not a cat during an appearance on the 'Today' show.

The world’s cutest cat turns 50 on Nov. 1—and to celebrate, we’re diving into the Hello Kitty origin story.

Did You Know Hello Kitty Isn't Even Her Real Name? Hello Kitty, who is not a cat, has a different name than her iconic moniker according to her flagship company Sanrio.

At 50, Hello Kitty is as ‘kawaii’ and lucrative as ever As Hello Kitty’s commercial success expanded beyond Asia, so did her personal profile.

Hello Kitty turns 50, but creators still insist she's not a cat The Japanese pop culture brand has had a significant cultural impact over the past few decades.

The Hello Kitty x Kate Spade Collection Kate Spade Outlet Hello Kitty X Ksny 3d Crossbody Featuring Hello Kitty's iconic red bow and whiskers, this 3D bag is a must-have for any fan.

An all new Hello kitty and Friends Cafe — the first of its kind in Los Angeles — opens Friday at Universal CityWalk.

In honor of Hello Kitty's 50th birthday, here are fun facts about the beloved Sanrio character who, turns out, is not a cat.