Mattel’s Wicked Toy Controversy: A Parent’s Lawsuit Against the Toy Maker
While the Wicked poster design has been the biggest controversy linked to the hit movie, there was also that unfortunate little incident in which toy maker Mattel put the URL of a porn website on the packaging of Wicked dolls.
The Error and the Apology
Mattel printed the web address www.wicked.com instead of the correct address www.wickedmovie.com. It quickly apologised and advised parents to hide the offending material from their kids, but it hasn’t managed to avoid getting sued.
The Lawsuit
A parent in South Carolina has launched lawsuit against Mattel after her daughter followed the link to a website that had “nothing to do with the Wicked dolls.”
“These scenes were hardcore, full on nude pornographic images depicting actual intercourse,” the lawsuit claims. “Plaintiff’s minor daughter immediately showed her mother the photographs and both were horrified by what they saw. If plaintiff had been aware of such an inappropriate defect in the product, she would not have purchased it.”
Seeking Damages and Equitable Remedies
The plaintiff claims that the typo cause her and her child “emotional distress” and that Mattel did not offer a refund. She’s seeking an unspecified amount in damages and equitable remedies.
Mattel’s Response
At the time, Mattel said in a statement: “We deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to remedy this. Parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children. People who have already purchased the dolls are advised to discard the packaging or obscure the link.”
Conclusion
The Wicked toy controversy is a reminder of the importance of attention to detail in product design and packaging. Mattel’s error has caused harm to a family and has led to a lawsuit. It is essential for companies to prioritize quality control and ensure that their products are safe for consumers, especially children.
FAQs
Q: What was the mistake made by Mattel?
A: Mattel printed the web address www.wicked.com instead of the correct address www.wickedmovie.com on the packaging of Wicked dolls.
Q: What was the impact of the mistake?
A: A parent in South Carolina launched a lawsuit against Mattel after her daughter followed the link to a porn website, causing emotional distress to the family.
Q: What is Mattel’s response to the lawsuit?
A: Mattel apologized for the error and advised parents to discard the packaging or obscure the link. The company is taking immediate action to remedy the situation.
Q: What is the outcome of the lawsuit?
A: The lawsuit is ongoing, and the plaintiff is seeking an unspecified amount in damages and equitable remedies.
