A new Barbie Ken doll designed to resemble LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers was ridiculed by NBA fans.
In an Instagram post for the Barbie brand, toy manufacturer Mattel stated, “LeBron James is the first-ever Barbie Kenbassador, recognizing his positive impact on culture, style, and community.” The LeBron James Ken Doll sporting tight, high-water houndstooth-patterned slacks and a crossbody purse was swiftly ridiculed by fans.
LeBron called his new Ken doll an “honor”.
“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,” LeBron James said in a statement. “Now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to. 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.”
LeBron officially has his own Barbie doll 🔥 pic.twitter.com/wu3l0Iy0bi
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 9, 2025
Adult NBA fans don’t play with dolls, they pointed out.
“So Barbie has now sucked in the 25-40 age group males who are likely to go out and buy this ‘doll,'” someone said. Men are getting weaker every day.
“[Michael] Jordan would never,” someone else wrote.
