Saban Brings Back the Popples, Takes My Pet Monster Virtual

Playthings Staff -- Gifts and Dec, 6/18/2012 11:43:01 AM

My Pet MonsterLOS ANGELES - First introduced by American Greetings in 1985, the Popples, colorful critter dolls with stringy, pom pom tipped tails, are making a comeback by Saban Brands in 2013; the company is also refreshing another '80s property, My Pet Monster, with a new app available this fall.

New Popples toys, plush, apparel, accessories, mobile and tablet apps and other product will be ready by fall 2013. Saban will also expand Popples merchandise to publishing, stationery, party goods, crafting and other categories and introduce new Popples characters by spring 2014.

Based on the popular children's TV show, the original Popples dolls generated more than $444 million in retail sales when they made their debut nearly 30 years ago. The new generation of Popples products will maintain the original character looks with a few modern twists.

"We're thrilled to introduce the Popples franchise to a new generation while reacquainting it with those who grew up with, and adored, Popples in the 80s," said Elie Dekel, president, Saban Brands, in a statement. "With products, and eventually new characters, fans will find the adorable Popples more irresistible than ever."

First introduced in 1986 (also by American Greetings), the soft plush doll line, My Pet Monster, is entering the virtual world. Saban is producing an app that incorporates the My Pet Monster property and characters with 3-D graphics and a social experience that lets users create, nurture, and share their monsters with friends.

One of the few plush dolls marketed to boys at the time, My Pet Monster continued to be successful into the early 1990s and even inspired a television show and live-action film, as well as other merchandise like coloring books and puzzles.

"We continue to look at new and innovative ways to grow our audience through online and digital channels," said Dekel. "My Pet Monsters will be an engaging way to interact with your very own pet monsters on your mobile device."

Not too removed from the 1980s, Saban Brands has also partnered with Mattel to release a line of Power Rangers-inspired Hot Wheels, which will be based on the upcoming Megaforce series airing in 2013. Saban Brands acquired the property in 2010. The series, which is available in more than 60 countries, is celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2013.