‘ThunderCats’ (toys) are loose

Last week we got our first glimpse of Cartoon Network’s upcoming ThunderCats remake. Today we get our first official look at the toys from Bandai.

WARNER BROS. CONSUMER PRODUCTS WELCOMES BACK THE LEGENDARY THUNDERCATS WITH LICENSING PROGRAM AT TOY FAIR 2011
Master Toy Licensee Bandai America Incorporated, Along With Icon Hero, Hard Hero And Mezco Lead The Way With Original Offerings Inspired By The Fearsome ThunderCats
All-New Series Set To Air On Cartoon Network In 2011

Burbank, Calif., February 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) will showcase an engaging and innovative line-up of licensed toys and products in support of the highly anticipated animated television series, “ThunderCats,” at the 2011 American International Toy Fair. The all-new series from Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) marks a creative collaboration with Studio4°C — one of the most vibrant animation studios in Japan — and is a 21st century re-imagining of the iconic 1980s action classic. “ThunderCats” will air on Cartoon Network in 2011. Global master toy licensee Bandai America Incorporated, along with licensees worldwide, will reinvigorate the nostalgic brand with enthusiasts to introduce a whole new set of fans to the beloved pop culture staple.

“We’re looking forward to reigniting the iconic ThunderCats franchise with a worldwide licensing program,” said Karen McTier, executive vice president of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing for Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “We are delighted with our powerhouse licensee partnerships and innovative line-up that will surely capture the true essence of ThunderCats for both longtime fans and a new generation.”

Global master toy licensee Bandai will unveil an electrifying toy line including must-have new toys inspired by both the new, re-imagined animated series, as well as the classic franchise. The action-packed toy line-up will include the detailed ThunderCats 4-inch figures, each of which come with a weapon or accessory and includes an exclusive embedded magnet that allows the toy to interact with and activate unique features in multiple ThunderCats products. Fans and kids alike will want to roll into battle with the Deluxe ThunderTank vehicle and 4-inch Snarf figure, and activate the iconic “ThunderCats, Ho!” sound effects. Rounding out the initial Fall 2011 line-up are the highly articulated ThunderCats 8-inch Classic Figures, based on the classic 1980s animated series, and the ThunderCats Deluxe Sword of Omens, which will allow fans to relive the adventurous series in a variety of ways.

“The ThunderCats toy line from Bandai America captures the thrilling sorcery and sci-fi of the new ‘ThunderCats’ animated series with high quality, lovingly detailed products appropriate for an active play time or a collector’s shelf,” said Mark Schaffner, Executive Vice President of Toys for Bandai America Incorporated. “These innovative new products will encourage imaginative play and are sure to have kids everywhere shouting ‘ThunderCats, Ho!’ once again.”

Additional key licensees supporting the launch of the new series include Icon Hero, with 6-inch statue collectibles; Hard Hero, with limited-edition porcelain statues; and Mezco, with vinyl figures.

Debuting in 1985, “ThunderCats” roared onto the broadcast air waves and created a feline frenzy with their band of cat-like heroes from the planet Thundera. Behind their fearless leader Lion-O, the ThunderCats strove to protect their new home on Third Earth and their headquarters, Cat’s Lair, from the Mutants of Plunn-Darr. The ThunderCats pop culture phenomenon had its paws sunk deeply not only in television, but also toy lines, apparel and comic books. Twenty-five years later, the beloved brand is poised to make a new audience of kids feel the magic and hear the roar once again.