On April 9th, Mattel announced its introducing a LeBron James Barbie doll, marking the first time a professional athlete is honoured as a “Kenbassador.”
Barbie is teaming up with the LeBron James Family Foundation to release the first Ken® doll of a professional athlete, LeBron James, to recognise his positive impact on culture, style, and community.
The success of Barbie the Movie sparked a global cultural resurgence for the brand, reimagining the Barbie world, including Ken, for a new generation. With adults now the fastest-growing audience in the toy industry, Barbie is embracing this shift by introducing Ken in fresh, unexpected ways. Leading up to Ken’s 65th anniversary in 2026, the brand is excited to honour Kenbassadors™ who are inspiring and contributing to a better world for all.
Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, Mattel commented:
“Ken is Barbie’s longtime best friend and supporter… we are excited to bring fans a new presentation of Ken that celebrates LeBron as a role model, his icon status, lasting impact on culture, and dedication to setting a positive example for the next generation to reach their limitless potential.”
LeBron James further added:
“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… now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to. That’s why partnering with Barbie to release the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is such an honor. 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.”
Known for his legendary basketball career and cultural influence, the LeBron James doll not only captures his effortless style, but also his height, standing one inch taller than the standard Ken doll in custom, larger packaging. LeBron collaborated closely with the Barbie team to design a highly personalised Ken doll outfit. The look includes a varsity jacket with symbolic patches, a “We Are Family” tee, and signature accessories that reflect his foundation, career, and roots. Each detail, from the jersey number 23 to the Ohio patch, tells part of his story, blending style with purpose.
The UNDEFEATED store on La Brea in Los Angeles, CA, is hosting a US-exclusive drop on Saturday, April 12th. A limited advance quantity of the doll, including a few signed by LeBron James, will be available for purchase ahead of the official drop on April 14th.
The Barbie Signature LeBron James Kenbassadors doll will be available at select Target stores and online at Target.com, Amazon, Walmart and Mattel Creations for an SRP of $75 starting Monday, April 14th at 12:00 AM ET.
