I started thinking today about the Snacktime Cabbage Patch Kid (random, I know), and I decided to compile a top ten list of recalled or controversial dolls. Most of these are strictly from my own memory, so if you have any to add, please feel free to do so in the comments!
1. Snacktime Cabbage Patch Kid -- 1996
This one had to be number one just because it's what got me thinking about writing this post. This doll came out in 1996 and was all the rage, until parents realized that children's fingers and hair were getting "eaten" by the dolls. If I remember correctly, a few children even had bald patches on their heads from the doll chewing their hair out. The doll was tested and was not recalled by the CPSC, but Mattel did voluntarily recall the doll.
2. Earring Magic Ken -- 1994
I rate this one at number two because I actually have one! How exciting! I don't believe this doll was actually recalled, although some stores most likely pulled it from their shelves. The big controversy here was that Ken was perceived as gay, and many parents didn't find that appropriate for a children's plaything. As I remember, they actually became hard to find after the controversy began because they became popular with collectors and the gay community.
3. Butterfly Art Barbie -- 1999
This Barbie was controversial and was pulled voluntarily by Mattel. I think the name says it all, Barbie had tattoos and parents did not feel this was appropriate.
4. Growing Up Skipper -- 1975
Growing Up Skipper was controversial because she grew breasts! I do not have a photo of her, but she remains very easy to find on the secondary market. You can purchase one in decent condition for around $10.
5. Pregnant Midge -- 2002
I honestly can't say why this was such a problem, other than Americans are very uptight. Midge was controversial because of her pregnant belly and her baby inside. Again, parents not thinking something was appropriate for children. She was pulled from stores shelves amid complaints.
6. Sky Dancers Flying Dolls -- 1994
These dolls were legitimately recalled by the CPSC. The dolls were flying dolls, but they flew uncontrollably, and many people reported eye, teeth, and other facial injuries. Doesn't sound like a very fun doll to me!
7. Joey Stivic Doll -- 1976
Joey Stivic was the first anatomically correct doll. 'Nuff said. I don't have a photo of him either, but he is very affordable on the secondary market.
8. AA Oreo Fun Barbie -- 1997
I actually have this doll as well, except in the white version. The problem with this doll is that here, in America, the word "Oreo" is used a derrogatory term towards African Americans, and so the dolls were recalled by Mattel.
9. Baby Alive Doll -- 1973
This doll was recreated several times throughout the years. I had one when I was younger in the late 80's. The reason the original version was recalled was due to mold and mildew growing inside the doll, which was caused by the "food" she ate. This made some children sick, and so the doll was recalled.
10. Bebe Gloton--2009
This doll was released in Spain, but created a stir here in the United States as many parents thought it was inappropriate. My opinion? Breastfeeding is a natural part of life, and I don't find anything wrong with it.
The clear winner in all of this is Barbie. She is one envelope pushing lady! The good thing about Barbie though, is she has just been "controversial" as opposed to actually being dangerous to children. Do you have any of the recalled dolls here? Do you know of any other dolls that have been recalled?
