When it comes to the golden age of action figures, one name stands out with a legacy as colorful and dynamic as the characters they created: Mego Corporation. From the 1970s through the mid-1980s, Mego was synonymous with innovation and creativity in the world of toys, pioneering figures that have become cherished collectibles today.
The Birth of an Icon
Founded in 1954, Mego began as a modest company importing cheap toys from Europe but truly found its niche in the early ’70s. Under the leadership of Martin Abrams, Mego shifted gears into action figures, tapping into the booming interest in superhero comics and TV series. This move was not just timely; it was visionary.
Superheroes Come to Life
Mego’s claim to fame was the 8-inch articulated action figure format. They secured licenses from DC Comics, Marvel Comics, and TV shows like “Star Trek” and “Planet of the Apes,” creating a vast universe of beloved characters in miniature form. These action figures weren’t just toys; they were a gateway for kids to step into the capes and costumes of their favorite heroes.
Innovation at Its Finest
What set Mego apart was its innovation. The use of real cloth for outfits, detailed accessories, and even vehicles and playsets that complemented the figures were groundbreaking. This attention to detail and dedication to quality made Mego a household name. The World’s Greatest Super Hero line, featuring characters like Batman, Spider-Man, and Captain Kirk, became icons of the era.
Mego’s influence extended beyond just their superhero lines. They also ventured into celebrity dolls, including the likes of Sonny and Cher, and TV characters from “Happy Days” and “The Waltons,” capturing a wider audience. The diversity of their offerings made Mego toys not just fun, but a reflection of contemporary pop culture.
They also brought us the amazing Micronauts toyline, imported from Japan, which I wrote about in detail here.
The Rise and Fall
Despite their success, the late ’70s and early ’80s were challenging for Mego. Competition from companies like Kenner, which released the now-famous Star Wars action figures, cut into Mego’s market share. Coupled with some business missteps, Mego filed for bankruptcy in 1982. However, the brand’s impact on the toy industry and its role in defining a generation of playtime culture remains unblemished.
Mego Today: A Revival of Nostalgia
Today, Mego figures are highly prized among collectors, symbolizing a nostalgic era of storytelling and imagination. Recent years have seen a revival of the Mego brand, with new figures and lines that pay homage to their classic roots while capturing the hearts of a new generation.
Celebrating Mego’s Heritage
The history of Mego is a testament to the spirit of innovation and the enduring appeal of its characters. It’s a story of a company that believed in the power of play and turned plastic into gold, capturing the imaginations of children and adults alike. For those of us who remember the joy these figures brought us, Mego will always hold a special place in our hearts.
As we look back on Mego’s storied past, we are reminded of the simple joys of childhood and the timeless appeal of heroes in action figure form. Mego didn’t just make toys; they provided adventures that lasted a lifetime.