For the first time ever, Mattel is honoring a real professional athlete with his own Ken doll, and it’s none other than NBA superstar and Akron native LeBron James. Set to drop April 14, the doll is loaded with personal flair, from his “We Are Family” tee and signature Nike kicks to a custom varsity jacket featuring milestone patches from his life and career. LeBron says the partnership is about showing kids what’s possible when they have strong role models to look up to.
But while some fans are celebrating the tribute, others are turning to Twitter with jokes and jabs, quickly turning “LeBarbie” into a trending topic. Critics took shots at LeBron’s on-court dramatics and meme-worthy flops, with sarcastic tweets suggesting the doll needs a stand “or it’ll flop,” or that it comes with “scheduled rest days.” Despite the mixed reactions, the $75 collector’s item is already generating major buzz. Barbie will also be donating to the LeBron James Family Foundation, further rooting the release in community impact.
But while some fans are celebrating the tribute, others are turning to Twitter with jokes and jabs, quickly turning “LeBarbie” into a trending topic. Critics took shots at LeBron’s on-court dramatics and meme-worthy flops, with sarcastic tweets suggesting the doll needs a stand “or it’ll flop,” or that it comes with “scheduled rest days.” Despite the mixed reactions, the $75 collector’s item is already generating major buzz. Barbie will also be donating to the LeBron James Family Foundation, further rooting the release in community impact.
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00:00For the first time ever, Mattel is releasing a Ken doll in the likeness of a real professional
00:04athlete, and it's none other than NBA icon and Akron native LeBron James.
00:09Dropping April 14th, the LeBron James Ken doll is full of personal touches, from a custom varsity
00:15jacket with milestone patches to his We Are Family Tee, Beats headphones, and signature Nike kick.
00:21During a press release, James stated,
00:24As a young kid, I was fortunate to have role models who not only inspired me,
00:28but also showed me what's possible through hard work and dedication.
00:31Now as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to.
00:37Since the announcement, LaBarbie has taken over Twitter with fans hyped and critics
00:42while roasting the NBA legend. One user wrote,
00:46Does he lay on the court and cry about everything too?
00:49Another added,
00:50Probably comes with scheduled rest days for your child so you don't overuse LeBron on back-to-back days.
00:56Some are even predicting that it'll be men, not kids, who helped this doll sell out.
01:01With confirmation from men, as one asked,
01:04Who else is ordering 10 of these?
01:06Much of the trolling stems for LeBron's on-court reputation,
01:09known for taking hard fouls, some dramatic reactions,
01:12and yes, a few flops that have become memes of their own.
01:16Love it or roast it?
01:17The LeBron James Kindle, retailing for $75, is making waves and will be available at Target,
01:24Walmart, Amazon, and Mattel Creations.
01:27Share your thoughts below and follow us everywhere at What's Trending.