Mattel’s new dolls have sparked controversy after a printing mistake was found on the packaging for the Wicked movie-themed dolls.
According to CNN, the toy company has apologised after accidentally printing the web address of an adult site on the packaging of its recently launched “Wicked” dolls.
Mattel has pulled the dolls from the shelves
Instead of directing fans to the official website for the movie adaptation of the Tony Award-winning musical, the info on the boxes of the special edition dolls accidentally sends people to a page that requires them to be 18 or older to enter.
The Wicked collection dolls are mainly sold in the United States, and this mix-up led to an urgent recall, with Sinar Daily reporting that Mattel pulled them from shelves throughout the country.
“We deeply regret the unfortunate error”
In a statement to CNN, Mattel explained that they were made aware of the situation, deeply regret the error, and are taking immediate action to fix it.
Mattel noted that parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children.
“Mattel found out about a misprint on the packaging of the Mattel Wicked collection dolls, which are mainly sold in the US, that was supposed to direct people to the official WickedMovie.com page.”
“Discard the packaging and obscure the link”
Mattel is advising people who have already purchased the dolls to discard the packaging or obscure the link.
The much-anticipated two-part Wicked movie, starring Ariana Grande and Oscar-nominated Cynthia Erivo, is based on the hit Broadway musical.
Part one of Wicked hits theatres on November 22, with the second film expected to follow in November 2025.
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