American Idol Happy Meal Toys
April 27, 2007 by Kerri Aldrich
Filed under Children's Toys
Yet again, I fail to understand why the toys included in the Happy Meals from McDonald’s are representing a show that most kids aren’t watching. Unless I’m just wrong (that happens fairly often), is American Idol a show that most kids in the under 10 set are glued to? I was confused, too, last summer when the kids’ meals were promoting a movie (Pirates of the Caribbean) that kids weren’t even allowed to see!
I mean, yeah, our kids were enjoying the American Idol microphones and iPod type toys (right until we “forgot” them at Grandma’s). And I’m sure there’s money exchanging hands somewhere that makes this seem reasonable for someone. I just think that, if we’re going to use these meals to promote movies and shows, aren’t there enough kid-focused shows to associate with the toys? Do we need these meals to promote adult-oriented entertainment? I just don’t get it.
Anyone care to enlighten me? (On this specific topic, not on stuff just in general. 
)
I think that was an amazing article and I loved it when did they have those toys or where do they have tham now where we live in FL Wellington
My daughter knows of AI but doesn’t watch it. She does love those AI happy meal toys, though. Not because they’re associated with AI but because she thinks they’re fun.
I was surprised at the association between McD and AI.
Katherine: McDonald’s.
Kailani: My kids are loving them, too. I finally asked my daughter (the oldest at 6 yrs.) if she even knew what AI was. She had a general knowledge of it. But they love singing in the mic with the superstar sunglasses on.