So, like woah. Big one here assuming there isn’t any asterisk we can’t see yet …
Mattel has regained the license to produce DC Comics action figures starting in 2026.
McFarlane Toys will apparently stop producing action figures at that time, and Mattel will take over. Not just for our collector level figures, but multiple segments, similar to how they used to do before the split to McFarlane and Spinmaster. Exact details are not clear yet so this may change.
This is coming from the LA Times currently, no major details from Mattel or McFarlane yet other than quotes from Mattel and WB reps in the article.
Stay tuned!
Update: Official Press Release Below
Mattel and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products Announce Multi-Year Licensing Partnership for DC Characters and Stories
Partnership brings DC’s Super Heroes, Super-Villains, and stories to life through action figures, playsets, accessories, role play products, and adult collectibles
EL SEGUNDO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products today announced a global, multi-year licensing agreement utilizing DC’s entire library of beloved characters and legendary storytelling. Through the partnership, Mattel is awarded the global licensing rights to develop and market a full range of DC-themed action figures, playsets, accessories, role play products, and adult collectibles starting in the second half of 2026. The agreement spans all DC stories and characters including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Joker, Harley Quinn, and many more.
Nick Karamanos, Senior Vice President of Entertainment Partnerships at Mattel, said: “It is an incredibly proud milestone to welcome DC back to Mattel. We look forward to leveraging our Mattel Playbook approach to brand management, product design, and innovation to bring DC’s popular characters to life across all channels. This renewed partnership will reflect our shared passion for engaging and inspiring fans and collectors of all ages.”
Robert Oberschelp, Head of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, said: “Warner Bros. Discovery’s new agreement with Mattel arrives as DC kicks off an exciting new chapter in 2025. Our collaboration with Mattel will lead to all-new offerings celebrating DC’s rich legacy and future storytelling across publishing, animation, TV, and film. Every story and character, from Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman’s heroics to The Joker and Harley Quinn’s troublemaking, are prime inspiration for a new partnership that combines the power of Mattel and the global appeal of DC.”
This new licensing agreement builds upon the existing relationship between Mattel and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, which spans more than 30 brands and franchises in Warner Bros. Discovery’s vast library including Harry Potter, FRIENDS, Seinfeld, Ted Lasso, and more across the preschool, plush, dolls, vehicles, games, and novelty toy categories.
About Mattel
Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends™, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Matchbox®, Monster High®, MEGA® and Polly Pocket®, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit us at mattel.com.
About Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products
Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s Revenue & Strategy division, extends the company’s powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. WBDGCP partners with best-in-class licensees globally on award-winning toy, fashion, home décor and publishing programs inspired by the biggest franchises from Warner Bros.’ film, television, animation, and games studios, HBO, Discovery, DC, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Eurosport, Adult Swim, and more. With innovative global licensing and merchandising programs, retail initiatives, and promotional partnerships, WBDGCP is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.
CompaniesMcFarlaneMattel
Scale6 Inch7 Inch
Sub-LineDC Multiverse