Mattel’s Wicked Dolls Pulled After Packaging Blunder Links to Adult Site

In a surprising turn of events, toy giant Mattel has announced the recall of its “Wicked” dolls due to a significant packaging error that directed consumers to an inappropriate adult website instead of the official film site. This blunder has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about quality control in product packaging, especially given the dolls’ connection to the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway musical “Wicked.”

On November 9, social media user Sarah Genao brought the issue to light with a viral post showcasing the incorrect link on the doll packaging. The post quickly gained traction, amassing over 21 million views and prompting widespread concern among parents and consumers alike. The error has since led to major retailers, including Target and Walmart, removing the dolls from their online platforms as of November 11, following public outcry.

Mattel has expressed deep regret over the incident, stating, “We are taking immediate action to correct this error and advise parents to discard or cover the incorrect link on the packaging.” The company is committed to ensuring that such mistakes do not happen again and is currently reviewing its processes for product labeling and packaging.

The “Wicked” dolls are part of a special-edition collection linked to the upcoming film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical. The dolls feature beloved characters such as Glinda, portrayed by Ariana Grande, and Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo. With the film set to premiere in theaters on November 22, 2024, and a second installment planned for release in fall 2025, the dolls were expected to be a hot commodity among fans.

In light of the packaging error, Mattel has advised consumers who have already purchased the dolls to either dispose of the packaging or cover the erroneous link, as it is not suitable for children. This advisory has led to a surge in interest on resale platforms, with some buyers listing the dolls for prices as high as $500, significantly above their retail price of under $40.

The incident has not only raised concerns about the quality control measures in place at Mattel but has also sparked discussions online about similar mistakes in recent months. Some users have pointed out that this is not the first time a packaging error has occurred, leading to questions about the company’s oversight and commitment to product safety.

As the situation unfolds, Mattel’s commitment to rectifying the error and preventing future occurrences will be closely monitored by consumers and industry experts alike. The company has stated that it is taking this matter seriously and is dedicated to restoring consumer trust.

In conclusion, the recall of Mattel’s “Wicked” dolls serves as a reminder of the importance of quality control in product packaging. As the film’s release date approaches, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact consumer sentiment and sales. For now, parents are advised to be vigilant and ensure that their children are not exposed to inappropriate content linked to the dolls.