Dolls based on the drug-dealing characters from TV’s “Breaking Bad” are no longer being sold by Toys R Us stores after a Fort Myers mother sought their removal through an online petition.
The 6-inch-tall likenesses of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman come with accessories such as pretend crystal methamphetamines, guns and cash, and meth-making necessities such as a hazardous-material suit, lab coat and gas mask.
“Let’s just say, the action figures have taken an indefinite sabbatical,” Toys R Us said in a statement to The Associated Press.
Susan Schrivjer told WFTX-TV in Cape Coral that although the collectibles were advertised for ages 15 and older, they promote drugs and send a bad message to children.
“I just think that they need to look at their visions and values,” said Schrivjer, whose petition on Change.org had more than 8,000 signatures on Tuesday. “Anything that has to do with drugs is not the right thing.”
Toys R Us reacted as the national media picked up her story and the petition gained traction. By Tuesday afternoon, the four styles of “Breaking Bad” collectibles were not available at outlets in Brandon, Port Richey and St. Petersburg, and they were removed from the company’s website.
A day earlier, Toys R Us defended selling the dolls in a statement to several media outlets, noting they were supposed to be displayed in an area for adult toys and available only in limited quanities.
“We carry a variety of fictional character action figures, including those for our collector customers,” a spokeswoman told The Washington Post.
The “Breaking Bad” collectibles, made by Mezco Toyz of New York City, have also been sold by Barnes & Noble, Sears, Kmart, Wal-Mart and other retailers that don’t necessarily specialize in children’s toys.
Schrivjer said she likes the show and has no problem if the action figures are sold in adult stores. But she was worried because children can mimic the dolls they play with.
The “celebration of the drug trade make this collection unsuitable to be sold alongside Barbie dolls and Disney characters,” said her petition, posted under the name Susan Myers.
At least one adult isn’t interested in her petition: “Breaking Bad” star Bryan Cranston, who plays chemistry teacher-turned-meth maker White (aka Heisenberg).
On Twitter, the actor wrote: “I’m so mad, I’m burning my Florida Mom action figure in protest.”
Source