NBA fans criticized a new Barbie Ken doll created in the likeness of L.A. Lakers star LeBron James.
“LeBron James is the first-ever Barbie Kenbassador, recognizing his positive impact on culture, style, and community,” toy maker Mattel said in a post on the Barbie brand Instagram account.
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
Fans quickly poked fun at the LeBron James Ken Doll wearing tight, high-water houndstooth pattern pants and a crossbody bag.
They noted that adult NBA fans don’t play with dolls.
One person wrote: “So Barbie has now sucked in the 25-40 age bracket male who are likely to go out and buy this ‘doll’. Men becoming weaker by the day.”
Another person wrote: “[Michael] Jordan would never.”
The LeBron James Ken doll is available to purchase on April 14 for $75.
