Mattel® announced today that its iconic Barbie® brand is introducing a LeBron James Ken® doll, the basketball legend, author, activist and philanthropist. The launch, in partnership with the LeBron James Family Foundation, is a recognition of the athlete’s positive impact on culture, style and community.

Over the years, Barbie has partnered with the most inspiring female role models in history and from around the world to help unleash the limitless potential of every girl. However, the Barbie movie sparked a global cultural phenomenon that has re-contextualized the Barbie universe, including Ken. In 2025 and for the first time, the brand is introducing the Barbie Signature Kenbassadors Collection, a new series that celebrates those who inspire and contribute to a better world for all. This launch comes in the run-up to Ken’s 65th anniversary in 2026.

“Ken has been Barbie’s best friend and support for a long time,” said Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, Mattel. “We are thrilled to offer fans a new presentation of Ken that celebrates LeBron as a role model, his iconic status, his lasting impact on culture and his dedication to setting a positive example for the next generation to reach their limitless potential.”

“As a child, I was fortunate to have role models who not only inspired me, but also showed me what is possible through hard work and dedication,” said LeBron James. “Now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to. That’s why it’s an honor to partner with Barbie to launch the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll. It’s an opportunity to recognize the powerful impact of role models who instill confidence, inspire dreams and show children that they too can achieve greatness.”

LeBron James worked closely with the Barbie team to customize the outfit for his doll. The patches on his varsity-style sports jacket reference milestones in his life, including a “We Are Family” patch in honor of the LeBron James Family Foundation, a 23 patch representing his iconic jersey number and an Ohio patch in honor of his hometown. The doll also features a T-shirt from his foundation, high-top Nike Terminator sneakers, Beats headphones, sunglasses, a fanny pack, a watch and his eternal “I Promise” wristband.

Although LeBron James is known for his revolutionary contributions on the basketball court, he is also famous for being a cultural curator and trendsetter. The LeBron James doll not only encompasses his signature style but also embodies his stature, being two centimeters taller than the standard Ken doll. For this release, a fully customized packaging has been created, in a larger box. The Barbie Signature LeBron James Kenbassadors doll will be available this spring

With the aim of inspiring the unlimited potential of every child, the Barbie brand has decided to make a donation to the LeBron James Family Foundation to help create generational change for children and families in James’ hometown. The foundation was created by LeBron to further its mission of improving the local community in Akron, Ohio, by providing support to families through education, housing, healthcare and job training. These life-changing resources, combined with the foundation’s “We Are Family” philosophy, come together to redefine the concept of family and community.

“For the foundation and the families we support, this is so much more than a doll. It represents the reality that a child from anywhere can make a difference,” said Michele Campbell, Executive Director of the LeBron James Family Foundation. “We are incredibly honored to partner with Barbie to continue inspiring the next generation and celebrate LeBron’s unwavering commitment to his community represented through the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll.”