Wicked is set to make its waves in theaters later this month. However, its merchandise is already embroiled in controversy due to an NSFW mistake in the packaging of the dolls.
As fans are gearing up for the arrival of the film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, merchandise tie-ins are being released to hype up the anticipation and one of them had an unfortunate misprint.
Wicked Doll Packaging NSFW Link Controversy Explained
Since the availability of the Wicked dolls in stores recently, fans noticed a massive mistake in the packaging as it contains an accidental connection to an NSFW website.
In the URL that was listed in the packaging, instead of linking to the film's official website, the link listed would direct to a porn site.
The correct URL for the film's website should be "WickedMovie."
This is a massive mistake for Mattel, the company behind the film's official dolls, considering that the products' target customers are children.
Websites that are selling the dolls with the misprint on the packaging have also taken notice of the mistake and warned consumers about it.
While this controversy is not expected to affect the film's box office performance or word-of-mouth among the audience, it still got trending enough online that a lot of people are talking about the blunder.
Mattel Addresses Wicked Doll Packaging Controversy
Mattel has released a statement addressing the controversy on the Wicked doll packaging misprint.
They assured that they have taken action to remedy the situation and advised customers who have purchased the products with the misprint to "obscure the link."
"Mattel was made aware of a misprint on the packaging of the Mattel Wicked collection dolls, primarily sold in the U.S., which intended to direct consumers to the official WickedMovie.com landing page," the company said.
"We deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to remedy this. Parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children."
Mattel added, "Consumers who already have the product are advised to discard the product packaging or obscure the link and may contact Mattel Customer Service for further information."
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