LeBron James makes history with new Barbie collab
LeBarbie! LeBron James is Mattel's first-ever Barbie Kenbassador.
Basketball star LeBron James is making history on and off the court.
Mattel has unveiled James as its Kenbassador. He is the first professional male athlete to receive a Ken doll.
The NBA's all-time top scorer was recognised for his "positive impact on culture, style, and community".
"LeBron emerged from humble inner-city beginnings to become a basketball legend and activist, vowing to give back to the community that raised him. He fulfilled his promise in 2004 by founding the LeBron James Family Foundation, empowering the kids of Akron, Ohio with the resources to succeed in the game of life," Mattel said.
"From housing, healthcare, job training, and more. LeBron and his foundation have rolled up their sleeves to create real generational change, exemplifying what it means to be a true MVP."
It's not every day that a 40-year-old man gets excited about a Barbie doll, but James is beyond thrilled.
"Got me a mini-me! Unbelievably cool and an honour to be part of the @barbie and @mattel family that continues to inspire the next generation. 🙏🏾 Lil Bron coming to a store near you!" the father of three wrote.
His fans are equally thrilled about the doll.
"Quality build. Looks collectable from the get-go," one fan wrote.
Another fan commented: "Incredible news, LeBron James is a wonderful role model, and makes the ideal first Barbie Kenbassador!"
We suspect it won't be just kids rushing to their nearest Target to get their hands on one.
He might be the first pro athlete to have his own Ken doll, but he is not the first star to get the Barbie treatment.
In 2019, 'Feel Good' singer, Lira, became the first African star to get her own Barbie.
Mattel immortalised the late Dr Maya Angelou in 2021.
These stars also have their own Barbie dolls:
Mariah Carey
Margot Robbie
Tina Turner
Jane Goodall
Claudia Schiffer
Zendaya
Prince William and Kate Middleton
Beyoncé
Barbra Streisand
Diana Ross
The Lebron James Ken doll will be available from April 14.
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