The initial cartoon created for use with toys as a primary medium.
In the world of children's entertainment, the lines between toys and cartoons have often blurred, creating a unique symbiosis that has captivated generations. This article delves into the fascinating history of this relationship, focusing on the first toy-to-cartoon, "Hot Wheels," and the rise of program-length commercials (PLCs).
The journey begins in 1955, with the airing of the first commercial for a toy - Mattel's Burp Gun. The television network NBC was the broadcasting platform for this groundbreaking advertisement. Fast forward to 1969, and we see the introduction of a 30-minute cartoon named "Hot Wheels" on ABC. This marked the first cartoon made for an existing toy line, paving the way for future mergers of toys and animated series.
The success of "Hot Wheels" can be traced back to its status as a 30-minute commercial for the toy cars. However, its popularity also led to controversy. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) considered "Hot Wheels" a PLC and, in a bid to maintain balance in children's programming, helped to end the show after two seasons.
Throughout the late 1950s and into the 1960s, 16 minutes of advertising per hour was common during early morning weekend hours dedicated to children. This trend continued, leading to a proliferation of PLCs. In response, the FCC issued a policy statement in 1974 banning PLCs. This ban remained in effect until 1984, when the rules limiting advertising during kids' shows were removed.
Interestingly, during this period, Congress passed legislation to reinstate the rules, but President Ronald Reagan vetoed the law in 1988. This decision allowed for the continued growth of PLCs, leading to the success of subsequent shows like "Transformers" and "Pirates of the Caribbean."
The first toy-to-feature-length-cartoon was Raggedy Ann in the 1977 film "Raggedy Ann & Andy: A Musical Adventure." However, it was "Hot Wheels" that truly set the stage for this trend. The article is sourced from various articles and books, including "The Guide to United States Popular Culture" by Ray Broadus and Pat Browne, "Dr. Toon: When Reagan Met Optimus Prime" by Martin Goodman, and "Transformers Roots Can Be Traced to Care Bears, My Little Pony, in Rewind" by Karl Heitmueller.
In conclusion, the relationship between cartoons and toys has a rich and intriguing history. From the first toy commercial in 1955 to the rise and fall of PLCs, and the success of shows like "Hot Wheels," this symbiosis has shaped the landscape of children's entertainment as we know it today.
