Barbie isn’t just playing games with this one. In a playful yet powerful collaboration, Mattel has teamed up with the LeBron James Family Foundation to introduce the first-ever Ken doll modeled after a professional athlete: NBA superstar LeBron James. This isn’t just any Ken doll, it’s the inaugural figure in Mattel’s exciting new “Kenbassadors” line. This initiative aims to celebrate figures who inspire positive change and leave a global impact, and LeBron, both on and off the court, epitomizes everything this initiative stands for.
For the collectors and fans yearning for a doll that stands apart, the LeBron James Ken doll will officially drop on April 14, with a price tag set at $75. It even comes with a doll stand and a Certificate of Authenticity—perfect for those looking to add a touch of athletic elegance to their collections. For Angelenos or lucky travelers, a special early release will occur on April 12 at the UNDEFEATED store in Los Angeles, boasting a limited run of dolls signed by the man himself, offering a unique chance to bring home a collectible piece of a real-life icon.
Crafted with attention to detail, this doll stands an inch taller than your average Ken to mirror LeBron’s towering 6-foot-9 presence. But it’s not just about stature; it’s in the flair, the threads, and the story they tell. Dressed in a fully customized wardrobe that screams “I’m larger than life,” the doll sports a “We Are Family” t-shirt, a nod to the heart of James’ philanthropic work. Complementing the t-shirt is a bespoke blue varsity jacket and the iconic Nike Terminator High sneakers, ensuring that LeBron’s unmistakable style is captured flawlessly.
Taking a closer look at the jacket, you’ll find it embellished with quintessential personalizations: an “LJ” patch on the chest gleams with pride, the number 23 pays homage to his famous jersey, and the “We Are Family” emblem reinforces community spirit. Ohio’s unmistakable flair is represented with a patch in homage to his roots, while “LEBRON” and the heartfelt words “Just a kid from Akron” grace the back, beautifully encapsulating his journey from prodigious talent to global luminary.
It’s not just a fashion piece; it’s an ensemble equipped with meaningful accessories. From Beats headphones and trendy sunglasses to a snug hat, sleek watch, and crossbody bag, these lifestyle accessories are all punctuated by LeBron’s signature “I Promise” wristband, an homage to his I PROMISE School and his enduring commitment to the community.
A delightful short video circulating on social media by the LeBron James Family Foundation and Uninterrupted features LeBron himself reveling in the moment. “Oh he dope,” James exclaims, as he takes in this pint-sized version of himself, a nod to both his likeness and influence perfectly captured in doll form.
The release isn’t just a token tribute; it has a profound effect beyond just bolstering collectible shelves. It’s about giving back. Mattel has promised, alongside the doll’s launch, to donate up to 5,000 copies of James’ inspirational children’s book, I Am More Than, to the charity Save the Children with every doll purchase made through Target during the launch period between April 14 and April 19. It’s a move aligning with the essence of the foundation’s ideals—giving back to the community that supports them.
Krista Berger, Mattel’s Senior Vice President for Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, illuminates the bigger picture behind the launch: “This is more than a doll—it’s a tribute to LeBron’s role as a cultural leader, role model, and advocate for youth.” With its amalgamation of basketball legend, ethos of positive cultural messaging, and elite collector appeal, the LeBron James Ken doll transcends the traditional scope of Barbie’s doll universe.
Ultimately, it seamlessly weaves together the grandeur of the basketball court with the empowering stories these small figures aim to tell. As LeBron continues to make history on the hardwood, this doll ensures his legacy is forever imprinted on the world of toys, promising not just to be a collector’s treasure, but a beacon of what’s achievable when talent meets heart.
