Toys “R” Us is breaking up with “Breaking Bad.” The giant toy retailer finally acted in response to protests about its stock of action figures based on the hit AMC network drama by pulling the dolls from store shelves. A synopsis of the cable show, which stars Bryan Cranston, is:
When a struggling high school chemistry teacher, Walter White, is diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer at the beginning of the series, he turns to a life of crime by putting his scientific knowledge to use producing and selling crystal methamphetamine in order to secure his family’s financial future before he dies. He does this by teaming with one of his former students, Jesse Pinkman. Set and produced in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this multiple award-winning violent crime drama is often considered as one of the best on television, entering the Guinness Book of World Records in 2014 as “the highest rated show of all time.”
Based on the synopsis alone, the themes involved are drugs, dope dealers, criminal activity, criminal lifestyles–which often involve killing people, and the often overlooked importance of STEM education and the love of family. (Yes those last two were sarcasm.)
Toys “R” Us spokeswoman Kathleen Waugh told NBC News that the action figures, which include toy drug and weapon accessories, “have taken an indefinite sabbatical.”
So that means that the stare down between these guys:
was won by, well–a mom. She’s Susan Schrivjer who got this protest started on Change.org under an assumed name.
Click the media player below to see a clip of the show at the heart of the controversy.
To read more on the Toys “R” Us protest and their responses, click HERE.
What do you think about a toy store stocking violent drug-dealer themed toys, though they were placed in an “adult/over 18” aisle?
Hit us up on Twitter @1067WTLC to let us know your thoughts.
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(Photo credits: AMC, Toys “R” Us)
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