Toys R Us Pulls "Breaking Bad" Figures

Facing too much criticism to ignore, Toys R Us has taken its "Breaking Bad" action figures off the shelves and off line. The figures reflect characters in the AMC show about a chemistry teacher turned meth maker.

A change.org petition questions whether the figures are appropriate for children: "...their decision to sell a Breaking Bad doll, complete with a detachable sack of cash and a bag of meth, alongside children's toys is a dangerous deviation from their family friendly values."

Social media comments indicate similar concerns, for example, "My childhood purchases consisted of furbies and barbies. But kids nowadays get to buy Breaking Bad action figures with fake meth."

At first, Toys R Us defended the dolls by claiming that the packaging, "clearly notes that the items are intended for ages 15 and up" and that they're only sold "in the adult action figure area of our stores." But Toys R Us changed its position. In a later statement, the company said, "Let's just say, the action figures have taken an 'indefinite sabbatical.'" This is a show joke, meaning they're dead.

For its part, Toymaker Mezko Toyz has said nothing.

Discussion Starters:

• Should Toys R Us have predicted the controversy and not released the figures?
• Did the company do the right thing by pulling the figures?
• What, if anything, should Mezko Toyz do now?