LeBron James has become the first professional male athlete to be immortalised as a Ken doll, with Mattel unveiling a Barbie in his likeness as part of its evolving representation of modern role models.
Toy giant Mattel has announced the launch of a new Ken doll styled after LeBron James, marking the first time a male sports figure has been featured in the Barbie lineup. The release celebrates James' cultural influence and role model status beyond the basketball court.
Krista Berger, Mattel's senior vice president of Barbie, said the move is aimed at showcasing "LeBron as a role model," citing his ability to transcend sports and provide a "positive example for the next generation."
The new doll depicts the Los Angeles Lakers forward not in his basketball uniform, but in a pre-game fashion outfit that includes a varsity jacket emblazoned with "LJ," a crown patch, and the number 23.
The back of the jacket reads “Just a kid from Akron,” a tribute to James’ Ohio roots. Additional accessories include headphones, a basketball, and sneakers.
The doll is notably taller than standard Ken dolls, reflecting James’ actual height of 6ft 9in.
In a promotional video, James reacted to the doll’s release with visible enthusiasm. “Oh, he dope!” he said, inspecting the miniature version of himself. He joked that the doll “might have to do a little lifting” due to its slender legs.
While Barbie has previously featured female athletes such as Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka, this is the first time a male athlete — and one not from the entertainment industry — has been included.
The announcement comes as Mattel navigates economic uncertainty linked to global trade tensions. Nearly 40% of Mattel’s production occurs in China, and the company could face significant supply chain and pricing challenges after President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Chinese imports to 125%. China has retaliated with tariffs of 84% on US goods.
Mattel stated that it may have to adjust its supply chain and pricing strategy in response to these changes.
Despite such challenges, the launch represents a milestone for the 65-year-old Barbie brand, which has focused on expanding its diversity in recent years to better reflect a broad spectrum of cultures, careers, and identities.
James, who holds four NBA championships and two Olympic gold medals, said the honour “hits different,” as the role of "Kenbassador" carries significance beyond sport.
“It’s an opportunity to recognise the powerful impact of role models who instil confidence, inspire dreams, and show kids that they, too, can achieve greatness,” he said.
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