Playmates has been creating the Ninja Turtle action figures we all know and love for over 40 years. The company is more than 60 years old, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) action figures are a staple of their brand– so much so that playmates financed the first season of the original turtles show in 1984. Since then, Playmates has been an asset to the franchise, making toys, collectibles and various merchandise for each and every iteration of the show (which has been a lot in 40 years.) However, a well known toy company may be putting Playmates in the Dollhouse- a Barbie dollhouse, specifically.
Starting in January 2027, Mattel will have full licensing rights to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Franchise. This means that Playmates will not be able to produce anymore Turtle Tanks, Mutation Mix and Match figurines, or TMNT media of any kind.
I feel like Playmates has taken a turn on making more childish toys based on the recent alliteration of the turtles, which was Mutant Mayhem. Burping turtles? What happened to those sick figurines that would fling pizzas? I also really hope Mattel will give the other illiterations of the turtles some love. I am an avid Rise of The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle collector, and Playmates pretty much threw them in the ooze. It’s so challenging to find those figures! I am hoping Mattel will cater to the franchise like they do Barbie and Hot Wheels– Making limited edition figurines, and collectibles for all ages (Like their mission statement says.)
Mattel’s profits in the 4th quarter of 2025 made lower than expected earnings. I feel like with the uprise of technology, kids are given an ipad, and less toys are being played with. I feel like I barely see commercials anymore advertising toys. Will Turtle Power make a powerful enough profit for Mattel? While I’m around, most likely. Cowabunga!
