Empire State Review Team 
LeBron James Becomes the First Male Athlete Ken Doll in Mattel’s ‘Kenbassador’ Series
In a landmark move, basketball superstar LeBron James has made history as the first male athlete to have a Ken doll created in his likeness. This announcement was made by Mattel Inc. as part of their recently launched “Kenbassador” series.
Series Launch and Background
This unveiling comes on the heels of a previous initiative by Mattel, wherein they introduced a line of nine female athlete Barbies, spotlighting iconic figures such as acclaimed tennis player Venus Williams.
LeBron’s Reaction
Expressing his excitement about the doll, James stated, “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.” He emphasized the importance of positive role models for young people, saying, “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 Ken Doll’s Features
James’ Ken doll showcases several unique features that pay homage to his legacy:
- Attire: The doll is dressed in a blue-and-white letterman’s jacket adorned with “LJ” and the number 23.
- Accessories: It sports sunglasses, headphones, and an “I Promise” wristband, which James personalized during his first encounter with the doll.
- Shoes: The doll wears blue Nike shoes, in line with James’ long-standing partnership with the brand.
- Slogan: The shirt features the phrase “We Are Family,” reflecting the ethos of the LeBron James Family Foundation.
Industry Insights
According to Krista Berger, senior vice president at Mattel, the introduction of James’ doll is part of an effort to present a new version of Ken that honors James as a role model, recognizing his cultural influence and dedication to inspiring future generations.
Availability and Pricing
The LeBron James Ken doll is priced at $75 and is set to be available for purchase starting Monday.
Conclusion
This innovative collaboration not only highlights LeBron James’ immense impact both on and off the court but also emphasizes the evolving representation of male athletes in toys. With the introduction of this doll, Mattel continues to redefine the boundaries of traditional toy representation.
For more about the LeBron James Ken doll, visit Fox Sports.
