Introduction
Action figures have a fascinating way of marking periods in pop culture history. They can embody popular trends, celebrate iconic heroes, and even allow fans to engage with their favorite characters physically. Many collectors of vintage toy lines seek to find out when their favorite toy lines were released. One iconic set in the action figure timeline is the CHiPs toy line, inspired by the beloved 70s and 80s television show. When were the original CHiPs action figures made?
The CHiPs TV Show
“CHiPs” was a popular American television drama from 1977 to 1983. The show followed the daily adventures of two motorcycle police officers from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and swiftly became a cultural sensation. The characters Jon Baker, played by Larry Wilcox, and Frank “Ponch” Poncherello, portrayed by Erik Estrada, were imprinted in the hearts of millions worldwide.
The Original CHiPs Action Figures
In response to the series’ success and growing fanbase, Mego Corporation, a company renowned for its action figures and playsets, secured the rights to produce CHiPs action figures. The first line of these action figures was released in 1978, just one year after the TV series debuted. The CHiPs action figures were 3.75″ tall.
The CHiPs Action Figures Collection
The first wave included the two beloved main characters, Ponch and Jon, in their recognizable Highway Patrol uniforms. They came with motorcycle helmets, boots, and iconic sunglasses and even had their own motorcycles as additional accessories. Mego designed the figures with remarkable attention to detail, capturing the likeness of the actors and the characters they played.
In 1981, Mego released a second wave of CHiPs action figures. This wave included newer characters from the series and additional accessories and playsets. The ongoing success of the TV series fueled the figures’ popularity, making them a must-have for fans and collectors alike.
Conclusion
Even today, over four decades after their release, the CHiPs action figures still hold significant nostalgic value. They represent a piece of pop culture history and a landmark in the toy industry. As vintage toy enthusiasts, we continue to buy, sell, and cherish these iconic figures, keeping the spirit of CHiPs alive for generations to come.
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About the Author
Author: Chris Ingledue
Contact: email
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!