LeBron James becomes first male athlete featured in Mattel's Barbie Doll set

LeBron James, the iconic NBA star and Los Angeles Lakers forward, has achieved another milestone in his career. He has been named the latest “Kenbassador” by Mattel, becoming the first male athlete to be featured in the Barbie Doll set. This groundbreaking collaboration marks a significant cultural moment, blending sports, fashion, and collectible memorabilia.

The LeBron James Ken Doll "Kenbassador" is priced at $75 for its official retail release later this month. However, demand for the doll has already skyrocketed during pre-sales, with copies selling for over $150 on eBay. This surge in interest highlights the immense popularity of James and the collectible nature of Mattel’s Barbie and Ken dolls.

By becoming “Kenbassador”, LeBron James has joined an elite group of athletes depicted by Mattel’s Barbie brand, including tennis legend Venus Williams and Australian soccer star Mary Fowler. However, this collaboration is unique because James is the first male athlete to be featured as a Ken Doll. His inclusion represents a progressive step for Mattel in diversifying its iconic doll lineup to include male sports figures.


Mattel’s Barbie brand has long been associated with cultural milestones and record-breaking achievements. For instance, the Stefanie Canturi Barbie set a record in 2010 as the most expensive Barbie ever sold, fetching $300,000 at Christie’s auction house. This legacy of high-value collectibles adds prestige to James’ Ken Doll debut.

LeBron James’ partnership with Mattel and becoming Kenbassador comes on the heels of the company’s massive success with its 2023 film directed by Greta Gerwig. Starring Margot Robbie as Barbie, the movie became a global phenomenon, earning $1.4 billion at the box office and reinvigorating interest in Barbie-themed merchandise. The timing of James’ doll release aligns perfectly with this renewed enthusiasm for Mattel’s brand.

LeBron James’ inclusion as a “Kenbassador” reflects his influence beyond basketball and into broader cultural spheres such as fashion and entertainment. As dolls hit retail shelves later this month, collectors and fans alike are expected to drive demand even higher. This collaboration not only cements James’ legacy but also opens doors for more male athletes to be featured in future Barbie sets.

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LeBron continues to redefine what it means to be an athlete in today’s world—one who transcends sports to become a cultural icon embraced by fans across industries.