LeBron James becomes the first male athlete to have a Ken doll

The first ever 'Kenbassador' is here!

LeBron James, one of the most iconic figures in modern sports, has made history once again — this time in the toy aisle.

Mattel announced the release of a new Barbie doll in Mr. James' likeness, making him the first professional male athlete to be honored as a Ken doll.

"We are excited to bring fans a new presentation of Ken," said Krista Berger, Mattel's senior vice president of Barbie.

She said the doll celebrates "LeBron as a role model," his ability as an icon to transcend culture and set a "positive example for the next generation."

LeBron took to Instagram and captioned the photo, "Got me a mini me!! 🤣🤣 Unbelievably cool and an honor to be part of the @barbie and @mattel family that continues to inspire the next generation. 🙏🏾 Lil Bron coming to a store near you!!! 🤴🏾🤎 #thekidfromakron👑 @ljfamfoundation @housethreethirty"

 

 

 

 

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Designed to reflect the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, the doll showcases James in his signature pre-game fashion and even stands an inch taller than the standard Ken doll, reflecting his real-life height of 6 feet 9 inches.

This release comes at a time when Mattel faces financial uncertainty amid President Donald Trump's escalating trade war with China, where just under 40% of Mattel's production is based.

Trump recently announced that tariffs on goods from China would increase to 125%, accusing Beijing of a "lack of respect" after it retaliated with an 84% tariff on US imports.

Mattel has warned it might have to raise prices and adjust its supply chain in response. Consumer and business groups have voiced concerns that the tariffs could disrupt supply chains and drive up prices.

The LeBron Ken doll doesn't depict him in his basketball uniform. Instead, he's dressed in a varsity jacket featuring "LJ" on the front, with additional details like an Ohio patch, a crown patch, and the number 23 — his jersey number — on the sleeves.

 

 

 

 

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On the back, "LeBron" is emblazoned along with the phrase, "Just a kid from Akron," a heartfelt nod to his Ohio hometown.

Underneath the jacket, the doll sports a T-shirt reading "We Are Family," paying homage to the star's foundation. Accessories like a basketball, headphones, and sneakers complete the look.

In a promotional video released by Mattel, Mr. James reacted to seeing the doll for the first time. "Oh, he dope!" he says as he's given the figurine. "That's so cool!"

As he played around with the doll's accessories, he joked that the LeBron Ken doll "might have to do a little lifting, legs are looking skinny."

The move marks a significant step for the 65-year-old Barbie brand, which has made a strong effort in recent years to diversify its doll lineup to better reflect a range of careers, body types, and backgrounds.

While Barbie has previously honored athletes like Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, and Megan Rapinoe, Mr. James becomes the first male sports figure — and the first male figure outside of the entertainment industry — to receive this recognition.

Even with four NBA titles, two Olympic gold medals, and an all-time scoring record, Mr. James says being named a "Kenbassador" holds special meaning.

"It's an opportunity to recognize the powerful impact of role models who instill confidence, inspire dreams, and show kids that they, too, can achieve greatness."