Barbie unveils LeBron James doll to celebrate culture and community impact
Image: Supplied
Mattel, Inc. has announced the release of a Ken® doll modelled after basketball superstar, author, activist, and philanthropist LeBron James.
This milestone launch, in partnership with the LeBron James Family Foundation, marks the first time Mattel has created a Ken doll representing a professional athlete.
It's a celebration of James' significant influence on culture, fashion, and community engagement.
Barbie® is introducing a doll in the likeness of basketball legend, author, activist and philanthropist LeBron James
Image: Supplied
The recent success of Barbie the Movie has propelled the Barbie brand into a global cultural phenomenon, creatively reimagining the Barbie universe and introducing Ken to a broader audience.
Recognising the growing demographic of adult toy collectors,
Mattel is excited to unveil this new iteration of Ken in anticipation of his 65th anniversary in 2026. The initiative aims to honour influential individuals dubbed "Kenbassadors™," who inspire and contribute to positive global change.
“Ken is Barbie’s longtime best friend and supporter,” remarked Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls at Mattel.
Barbie® is introducing a doll in the likeness of basketball legend, author, activist and philanthropist LeBron James
Image: Supplied
“We are thrilled to introduce a new version of Ken that highlights LeBron as a role model, reflecting his cultural impact and commitment to setting a positive example for younger generations to aspire to.”
LeBron James, revered not just for his athletic prowess but also as a cultural icon, expressed his excitement about the collaboration.
“As a young kid, I was fortunate to have role models who not only inspired me but also showed me what’s possible through hard work and dedication,” James shared.
“Now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to. Partnering with Barbie to launch the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is an incredible honour.”
The newly-created LeBron James doll mirrors his towering stature, standing an inch taller than the traditional Ken doll and presented in distinct larger packaging.
Barbie® is introducing a doll in the likeness of basketball legend, author, activist and philanthropist LeBron James
Image: Supplied
Collaborating with the Barbie design team, James has customised his doll's outfit, which features a varsity jacket over the "We Are Family" t-shirt of his foundation, alongside Nike Terminator High sneakers, Beats headphones, sunglasses, a fanny pack, a watch, and his signature 'I Promise' band. The jacket is adorned with patches that honour significant aspects of his life, including a tribute to his foundation, his jersey number 23, and an homage to his Ohio roots.
Proudly associated with the LeBron James Family Foundation, which James founded to uplift his community in Akron, Ohio, Barbie is making a tangible commitment by donating to the foundation. This contribution aims to support families through education, housing, healthcare, and job training initiatives. “For the LeBron James Family Foundation and the families we serve, this doll is so much more than a toy; it represents the reality that a kid from anywhere can make a difference,” stated Michele Campbell, Executive Director of the foundation.
This initiative highlights Mattel’s ongoing partnership with Save the Children, reinforcing their commitment to helping kids globally.
Fans eager to get their hands on the doll can visit the UNDEFEATED store on La Brea in Los Angeles, CA, for a US-exclusive release on Saturday, April 12th, where a limited number of dolls, including a few signed by James, will be available.
The official launch is set for April 14, at a suggested retail price of R1,969.99, available at select retailers and online as a limited edition.
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