November 11, 2024 07:40 PM IST
Barbie toy company Mattel has publicly apologized to parents after listing a non-kid-friendly website on Wicked Doll Collection packaging.
Wicked Ironically, the movie merchandising has been true to the film’s title by not being child-friendly. In a nightmarish turn of events, toy company Mattel accidentally listed an adult porn site on the packaging of a merchandise line aimed at children ages four and up. The “unfortunate error” was attributed to the similarities shared between an X-rated website and a URL promoting the upcoming film adaptation of the hit musical.
The upcoming big screen project starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande follows a previous Mattel-based Margot Robbie-led project barbie Blockbuster. Ahead of its cinematic premiere on November 22, the film has been making news not only for its world premiere and other promotional photo-ops but also for a major gaffe. The web address mistakenly listed on the boxed merchandise line is wicked.com (a domain registered since 1994) instead of wickedmovie.com.
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Mattel apologizes for major glitch in Wicked doll collection
Later on Sunday, the Hot Wheels manufacturer issued an apology: “Mattel was made aware of a misprint on the packaging of Mattel Wicked Collection dolls sold primarily in the U.S., which were intended to misdirect consumers from the official WickedMovie.com landing page. Had to direct on the page.” Read the statement, according to The Hollywood Reporter. “We deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to correct it. Parents are advised that the misprinted, inaccurate website is not suitable for children. Consumers who have already product, they are advised to remove the product packaging or obscure the link. Contact Mattel customer service for further information.”
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Evil dolls removed from public sale
In addition to the public apology, Mattel also pulled the doll collection. While Wicked Dolls merchandise was not available for sale at Target as of Sunday afternoon, the doll line mistakenly advertising a porn website was eventually released at other major retailers supporting the Universal film, including Walmart, Macy’s, Kohl’s, Best Buy, DSW Will be removed from the partners. , and Amazon.
Despite the toy company’s efforts to erase the misogynistic line from public memory, products emblazoned with NSFW online addresses have already turned up on eBay for prices as high as $100 to $800. Original retail items ranged in price from $24.99 to $39.99.
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