TVKIDS
Mattel Publishing has inked a slew of new deals that will see a multi-title collaboration with Yoto, an expanded partnership with Tonies and a new partnership with TOKYOPOP.
Yoto will introduce a variety of audio titles for hit Mattel brands, including Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends and American Girl. The Hot Wheel Let’s Race title launched in March, and the Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go edition will debut in April.
For the American Girl edition, WellieWishers: Whimsical Adventures is already available in North America.
Mattel Publishing’s expanded partnership with Tonies has seen the release of a third Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go figure, now available online.
The deal with TOKYOPOP will see the development of original manga-style graphic novels for middle-grade readers based on Barbie and Hot Wheels. The books are slated to debut in print in 2026.
“We’re excited to bring these beloved franchises to new audiences through dynamic manga-style storytelling,” said Ryan Ferguson, global head of publishing at Mattel, regarding the deal with TOKYOPOP. “Barbie and Hot Wheels are timeless brands that have always evolved—this partnership reflects that spirit.”
“Publishing is a powerful way to extend our characters and brands into new narratives, enabling us to continue to connect with fans in new ways,” continued Ferguson. “As we celebrate Mattel’s 80th year, our mission remains the same: to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential through purposeful storytelling.”
Other partners include Faba, which has released Thomas: A Tutto Vapore in Italy, France and Spain, and Ravensburger, which will release a Barbie puzzle on July 1.
