American toy manufacturer Mattel has mistakenly printed the address for a porn website on the packaging of Wicked dolls. The misprint is “not appropriate for children”, Mattel said, while promising to “remedy” the mistake.
When “Not suitable for children under 36 months” becomes “Not suitable for anyone under the age of 18”…
When you’re the world’s second largest toy maker in terms of revenue, the company behind brands like Barbie and Hot Wheels, it’s fair to assume that quality control is a high priority and that decisions get double and triple stamped.
But even the mighty make mistakes.
Mattel released dolls of characters played by British actress Cynthia Erivo and US singer Ariana Grande in the upcoming film version of Wicked, the hit Broadway and West End musical based on the Wizard of Oz.
So far, so promotional merchandising-by-numbers.
However, instead of featuring an address to the movie’s website, a porn site sharing the name of the movie was printed on the packaging – which is embarrassing for Mattel but great news for those who got their hands on a bona fide collector’s item.
Indeed, instead of directing customers to the WickedMovie.com page, it printed Wicked.com – an adult website.
When the blunder was revealed, Mattel issued a statement saying it “deeply regrets” the error, which is “not appropriate for children.”
“We deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to remedy this,” the statement added. “Parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children.”
It added: “Consumers who already have the product are advised to discard the product packaging or obscure the link and may contact Mattel Customer Service for further information.”
It doesn’t appear to be a one-off misprint, with the Wicked dolls listed on eBay showing the same consistent link – and already becoming much-sought after.
Fans have seen the funny side of the misprint, but some have stated that the mishap has its darker side, with online commentors saying that someone is going to get fired imminently.
“As a graphic designer with a penchant for typos, this is my worst nightmare,” wrote a user online, with some buyers speculating Mattel will recall them: “Well, that is going to be a collectable item as long as they destroy them.”
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the entire Mattel collection has been pulled off shelves at major American retail stores.
Wicked is split into two instalments, with the first arriving in cinemas on 22 November; a second part scheduled for November next year.
Additional sources • Hollywood Reporter
