MR. POTATO HEAD®
Mr. Potato Head has been a true reflection of social
trends in American society for over 37 years. Born in Rhode Island
in 1952 and a member of the Baby Boomer generation, Mr. Potato Head
began as a set of eyes, ears, noses, and mouths that gave everyday
vegetables their own personalities.
A year later Mr. Potato Head met Mrs. Potato Head and, after a
whirlwind courtship and a brief honeymoon in Boise, Idaho, they
became conspicuous consumers, acquiring their own convertible, boat,
trailer, airplane, and locomotive, as well as a variety of household
items.
In 1964, feeling the need to "discover" themselves, Mr.
and Mrs. Potato Head took shape in the form of molded bodies, no
longer having to settle for turnip, onion, or tomato substitutes.
In 1966 there was a "whole lot of shakin' goin' on," and
Mr. Potato Head became "Jumpin' Mr. Potato Head." To keep
up with the Joneses, Mr. Potato Head now jumped, fished, played with
his jackhammer, and flew kites. Mrs. Potato Head, not yet liberated,
acquired a feather duster, floor polisher, dinner bell, and vacuum
cleaner.
But life in the fast lane caught up with Mr. Potato Head in 1974. He
recognized the onslaught of middle age when he doubled in size.
But he wasn't getting older, just better, and Mr. Potato Head became
Super Mr. Potato Head in 1980. Facelifts, bendable arms, and a trap
door to store their spare parts followed in 1983, helping Mr. and
Mrs. Potato Head to "tuck it all in."
Finally, like so many of their generation, Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head
found that the time was right to begin a family, and on February
11, 1985, Baby Potato Head was born. His proud parents think he's
a chip off the old spud.
As father and role model to 12 Potato Head Kids, Mr. Potato Head
made the important decision to stop smoking. In 1987 he was the
official "spokespud" of the American Cancer Society's
Great American Smokeout when he gave up his pipe to lead a healthier
life.
And of course, in 1995, he makes his mark in "Toy Story"
as the only cast member who is also one of the four basic food groups.
Over four decades of American children have laughed and giggled
at their funny and imaginative Potato Head creations.
