Ken is keeping the "Kenergy" going with Mattel and Barbie's latest addition, the LeBron James-inspired Kenbassadors doll. LeBron James started his career as a professional basketball player in 2003, starting his iconic career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers and is more than good "kenough" for his own inspired doll. Outside of basketball, LeBron James is also an activist, author, and philanthropist. LeBron James is also a co-owner of the Boston Red Sox.
To make sure that Barbie properly recognizes LeBron James' likeness and represents his positive influence on style, community, and culture, Mattel has joined forces with the LeBron James Family Foundation. In 2026, Ken will celebrate 65 years as a doll, and Barbie wants to mark the milestone with a doll representative of one of the most successful athletes around. Ken may not have been as exciting as Barbie previous to the Barbie movie's release in 2023, but Ryan Gosling's portrayal gave fans everything they never knew they wanted from the man whose day is only great when Barbie looks his way.
Young girls and boys everywhere, as well as anyone who loves basketball, can find joy in the newest line-up to the Ken collection. Even though the Ken doll options may not be as expansive as the variations of Barbie, Mattel is still striving to show kids everywhere that they can look up to anyone, from athletes to actors to musicians. LeBron James has become synonymous with basketball, becoming one of the most well-known household names to go along with the sport. Meanwhile, although Ken may not have made the same impact in the doll universe, this collaboration shows that Ken's impact can allow young boys and girls to look up to positive role models, such as LeBron James.
Other significant Ken iterations include variants interested in surfing, soccer, camping, and the beach. Ken has also had a doll in celebration of Dia De Muertos, as well as different iterations of the costumes used in the Barbie film. Ken is an iconic staple of the Barbie brand even if he is not usually front and center. Yet, a new edition to the doll with a focus on Lebron James suggests potential growth for new iterations of Ken in addition to celebrating the iconic achievements of LeBron James.
The LeBron James Kenbassadors doll will be available to buy starting on Monday, April 14th on the Mattel website.