By: Jamie Thompson
Feb. 25, 2021
Hasbro has decided to remove the “Mister” from Mr. Potato Head, introducing a gender-neutral version of the beloved toy. This change means that the iconic Potato Head family will now simply be referred to as “Potato Head,” allowing children to explore their own understanding of gender and identity.
For years, children have played with both Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, but now they will have the chance to create their own families without the constraints of traditional gender roles. This exciting rebranding allows for unique expressions, like a mom Potato Head in pants or a family with two dads, which has understandably upset some conservative individuals.
The new Potato Head will enable kids to mix and match various accessories, like noses, hairstyles, and outfits, encouraging creativity and personal expression. “The ideal age for this toy is around two to three years old,” says Sarah Green, a senior vice president at Hasbro, speaking to Fast Company. “Kids enjoy dressing the toy and acting out scenarios from their lives, often forming little potato families as they learn about family dynamics.”
Hasbro’s move towards gender-neutral Potato Heads opens up a world where children can design their own family structures beyond the traditional nuclear family. Now, kids can create households with two moms or single parent potatoes, breaking away from the expectation that mommy Potato Head must always wear a bow and earrings.
“Culture has evolved,” Green explains. “Children want to represent their own experiences. The previous branding was restrictive in terms of gender identity and family structures.” According to reports, the new packaging will roll out later this year, and it’s no surprise that some critics are reacting strongly.
Some detractors seem confused about who to target, with one individual threatening to boycott Pixar over the changes. Others, like Michael Rivers, are expressing outrage over what they perceive as an attack on traditional values, claiming the toy’s update is symptomatic of a larger culture war.
While these negative reactions persist, the revamped Potato Head toys appear to be a positive step forward, promoting inclusivity and understanding among young children. After all, it’s important to remember that potatoes don’t have genders, so perhaps it’s time to relax a bit.
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Summary:
Hasbro has transitioned Mr. Potato Head to a gender-neutral brand, now simply called “Potato Head,” allowing kids to express their individuality and create inclusive family dynamics. This change has sparked backlash from some conservative commentators, but it ultimately promotes creativity and representation among children.
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