The first male athlete to receive an official Ken doll is LeBron James

This collaboration is a component of Barbie’s “Signature Kenbassadors” program. 

In addition to leaving his indelible stamp on the court, LeBron James is still accumulating infinity stones for his cultural influence off the court. With the debut of an official Ken doll this month, the renowned basketball star will become the first male athlete to have his legacy memorialized.

Designed to “celebrate influential Ken figures who are creating positive change and contributing to a better world for all,” the figure is a member of Barbie’s Signature Kenbassadors series. 

Beginning on April 23, 2025, the collector’s item will be accessible on the Mattel Creations website. On April 24, it will be priced at $75 and put up for sale on Amazon and other online stores. The first Black Barbie doll ever made was released on this date. 

Since the doll has many characteristics of the Akron, Ohio, athlete’s life narrative, every feature was thoughtfully created. The figurine is dressed in a blue and white varsity jacket that reads “Just A Kid From Akron” on the back and “LJ” on the front. His native state and foundation are also represented by a number of patches. A pair of Nike sneakers, black-and-white houndstooth slacks, and a t-shirt that reads “We Are Family” complete the ensemble.

Reactions began to stream in, and the news thrilled the four-time NBA champion’s fans. One Instagram user joked, “Grown men will sell out of these as soon as possible.” An additional commenter commended the Mattel designers for their excellent job of emulating Bron’s appearance, stating, “and they actually made him look good.” I adore this. They’ll make us look like dolls and wax figures, you know. One individual offered feedback, highlighting the selection of shoes. They wrote, “Dunks instead of LeBrons is a lost opportunity.”