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Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Mattel announces new LeBron James “Ken” doll

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Mattel, Inc. has announced that Barbie is introducing a new “Ken” doll made in the likeness of basketball legend, author, activist and philanthropist LeBron James.

 

The Barbie team is said to be working with the LeBron James Family Foundation to release the first Ken doll of a professional athlete. James was also said to be chosen to recognize his positive impact on culture, style, and community.

 

Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, at Mattel, said this new figure brings 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.

 

LeBron James. Photo: Mattel
Photo: Mattel – LeBron James doll

 

“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,” said LeBron James.

 

James added  that he partened with Barbie because he knowns and understands how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to.

 

“It’s an opportunity to recognize the powerful impact of role models who instil confidence, inspire dreams, and show kids that they, too, can achieve greatness,”

 

While LeBron James is recognized for his groundbreaking contributions on the basketball court, he’s also renowned for being a cultural curator and trendsetter. In a statement, Mattel said “The LeBron James doll” not only captures his effortless style but also his height, standing one inch taller than the standard Ken doll.

 

James reportedly worked closely with the Barbie team to personalize his doll’s outfit, which includes a custom varsity jacket over the LeBron James Family Foundation’s signature “We Are Family” t-shirt, Nike Terminator High sneakers, Beats headphones, sunglasses, a fanny pack, a watch and his ‘I Promise’ band.

 

 

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A post shared by Complex Sports (@complexsports)

 

The patches on his varsity jacket is said to reference milestones throughout his life, including a “We Are Family patch” as a tribute to the LeBron James Family Foundation, a 23 patch representing his iconic jersey number, and an Ohio patch nodding to his hometown.

 

READ MORE: Barbie’s first Diwali doll; highlights South Africa’s diversity

Danielle Mentoor
Danielle Mentoor
Danielle is Smile FM's PM drive news reader. She has been in the radio industry since 2020 and started her career at a community radio station. When she's not keeping you up to date with the latest news, she's exploring the outdoors.

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