The First Greatest American Hero Action Figures

Mego Corporation was a toy manufacturer known for its licensed action figures and celebrity dolls. However, one toy line of theirs that has caught many people’s attention is Great American Hero. This line was based on the television show of the same name. If you are a fan of the show and the toy line, you may wonder when the first Greatest American Hero action figures were made. Look no further! We have the answers right here!

Greatest American Hero Logo

The Greatest American Hero Television Show

To understand the Greatest American Hero action figures, we must first appreciate the show they were inspired by. “The Greatest American Hero” was an American comedy-drama superhero television series aired on ABC from March 18, 1981, to February 3, 1983. Producer Stephen J. Cannell created the series.

The show centers around Ralph Hinkley (later changed to Ralph Hanley due to real-life events), a high school teacher. He is approached by extraterrestrials and given a red suit that grants him superhuman abilities. Unfortunately, Ralph loses the instruction manual for the suit and has to learn how to control his new powers through trial and error, leading to humorous situations.

Ralph is reluctantly paired up with FBI Special Agent Bill Maxwell, portrayed by Robert Culp. Agent Maxwell had been in contact with the aliens before they met with Ralph. Despite their differing personalities and methods – Ralph being a pacifist and Bill being a gun-toting lawman – they form an unlikely partnership. Connie Sellecca also stars as Pam Davidson, Ralph’s girlfriend, a lawyer who often gets involved in Ralph and Bill’s escapades.

The show is probably best remembered for its theme song, “Believe It or Not,” which became popular during its run. Despite being a relatively short-lived series, “The Greatest American Hero” has maintained a cult following and is remembered fondly by many fans of 1980s television.

Mego The Greatest American Hero Ralph

The First Greatest American Heros Action Figures

Coinciding with the show’s release, Mego made the first Greatest American Hero action figures in 1981. The line consisted of 3 ¾” action figures – consistent with their Dukes of Hazzard and CHiPs toy lines. They also planned to create an 8” line, as was typical for Mego. However, they instead created a 12” line that was more expensive.

Conclusion

Since Mego created the Greatest American Hero action figure line in 1981, it has gained many fans. This toy line demonstrates the common marketing technique by toy manufacturers in the 80s to work with entertainment companies to create a franchise. As toy collectors and enthusiasts, we appreciate the ingenuity and creativity of manufacturers in the 70s and 80s. Their innovation inspires us to continue to be creative and inventive.

Do you have old and used Greatest American Hero toys?

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About the Author

Author: Chris Ingledue 

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Bio: I am the founder and owner of Wheeljack’s Lab pop Culture and Toy Shop. My vision has always been to reunite customers with their favorite childhood toys and pop culture, triggering fond memories, and reigniting their imaginations. Every day, I work in the “lab” where it’s Christmas 365 days a year. I scour the internet, like when we had the Sears Catalog of yesteryear, for the next great treasure. Then, I await the arrival of the postman as if he were Santa Claus himself and helping collectors worldwide with their versions of Christmas. Every day as a vintage toy buyer is an absolute joy!

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