Meet the Newest ‘Kenbassador’: The First of Mattel’s New Celebrity Friends for Ken Is Here

Ken, Barbie’s longtime companion, is stepping into the spotlight with a new lineup of celebrity friends. Mattel has introduced “Kenbassadors,” a series of collectible dolls featuring celebrity likenesses, marking a fresh expansion of the iconic toy line.

According to a Mattel press release, the Barbie brand’s newest addition is a doll in the likeness of basketball legend, businessman, and philanthropist LeBron James as the line’s inaugural “Kenbassador.” Via a partnership with the LeBron James Family Foundation, the basketball legend is the first professional athlete whose essence was captured in a Ken doll.

Per the release, James was chosen as the first “Kenbassador” to “recognize his positive impact on culture, style, and community.”

“Ken is Barbie’s longtime best friend and supporter,” said Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls at Mattel. “We are excited to bring 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 to reach their limitless potential.”

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“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 James. “Now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to.”

He added, “That’s why partnering with Barbie to release the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is such an honor. It’s an opportunity to recognize the powerful impact of role models who instill confidence, inspire dreams, and show kids that they, too, can achieve greatness.” 

The toy manufacturer plans to produce an as-yet unreleased number of “Kenbassadors.” These male celebrity likenesses will feature those influential individuals who contribute to a better world.

Mattel’s LeBron James Doll Is Inspirational

As Mattel’s first “Kenbassador,” LeBron James continues to set a standard of inspiration. The professional athlete is known for giving back to his community via the LeBron James Family Foundation, created to support families through education, housing, healthcare, and job training in his hometown of Akron, Ohio.

The foundation embraces a “We Are Family” philosophy, using its resources to uplift and empower the community. As part of this iconic partnership, Mattel is donating funds to support the foundation’s mission and drive lasting, generational change.

Michele Campbell, executive director of the LeBron James Family Foundation, shared in the press release, “For the LeBron James Family Foundation and the families we serve, this is so much more than a doll. We are incredibly honored to partner with Barbie to continue inspiring the next generation and to celebrate LeBron’s unwavering commitment to his community by giving back through the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll.”

The LeBron James doll stands an inch taller than the standard Ken doll. James also collaborated with the Barbie team to design an outfit that reflects his signature style and the values he represents.

The collectible doll wears the James Family Foundation’s signature We Are Family T-shirt, Nike Terminator High sneakers, Beats headphones, sunglasses, a fanny pack, a watch, and an “I Promise” band. Additionally, the doll’s varsity jacket features patches reflecting James’ life, including those reflecting We Are Family, a 23 patch representing his iconic jersey number, and an Ohio patch for his hometown. 

The Barbie Signature LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is available at select Target stores and online at Target.com, Amazon, Walmart, and Mattel Creations.