Toy giant Mattel is facing a wave of criticism after a serious packaging error on its doll collection inspired by the movie Wicked, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The Mattel’s Wicked Dolls packaging includes an incorrect link that, instead of leading to the film’s official site, redirects to an adult content website.
The release of the Mattel Wicked collection, featuring characters from the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway musical, has been marred by this unexpected issue. According to multiple social media users, the packaging link was intended to direct consumers to WickedMovie.com, the official website for the film’s release in November 2025. However, the printed link instead leads to an adult site, sparking surprise and outrage among consumers, particularly parents.
What has been Mattel’s official response?
Mattel responded promptly to the controversy. In an official statement to CNN, the company expressed its “deep regret” over the mistake and announced that corrective measures are being taken.
The company stated that they immediately addressed the issue and have advised parents to discard the packaging or cover the incorrect link. Additionally, Mattel has set up a customer support channel to provide further assistance to those who have already purchased the dolls.
“We are taking immediate action to address this error and deeply regret any inconvenience it may have caused,” Mattel stated.
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The mistake has drawn divided reactions on social media, with some people accusing Mattel of a lack of quality control, while others highlight the irony of a child-oriented product being linked to inappropriate content. Users on X (formerly Twitter) have voiced concerns and anger, with some demanding a more rigorous review of the company’s packaging process. Some even argue that this may be the biggest error in merchandising history.
When will ‘Wicked’ premiere in theaters?
The film adaptation of Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, is one of the most anticipated releases of the year. The first part will debut on November 22, 2024, with the second installment slated for November 2025.
Some critics have already praised the film as a “captivating and enchanting big-screen adaptation,” suggesting it may overcome the marketing controversy surrounding this error.
What impact could this controversy have on the dolls’ value in the secondary market?
Interestingly, this incident has sparked increased interest in Wicked dolls on resale sites like eBay.
Some buyers are capitalizing on the controversy, reselling dolls with the original packaging error for prices ranging from $175 to $500, indicating that this product, with its original packaging, may become a collectible item due to its “unique” mistake.
