After 26-Year Hiatus, Legendary G.I. JOE Feature Gets A Grip On Whole New Generation
Aug 26, 2002/ FW/ --- G.I. JOE, the world's first action figure, is getting a grip--a KUNG-FU GRIP!
Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS) has re-introduced the popular `70s feature--the KUNG-FU
GRIP--to selected figures throughout its 2002 G.I. JOE line.
These figures continue the reintroduction of the ADVENTURE TEAM, the
nostalgic action-adventure segment that pits G.I. JOE against real and imagined
adversaries such as sharks, spies, snow monsters, and mummies.
The KUNG-FU GRIP feature is one of the G.I. JOE brand's most well-known
innovations. Introduced in 1974, KUNG FU GRIP is marked by soft, flexible,
gripping rubber hands, compared to the more traditional hands featured on other
G.I. JOE figures.
Owing in part to the popularity of martial arts during the
1970s, the new grip was a hit at the time of its original release.
The KUNG-FU GRIP feature left an indelible mark on pop culture, and humorous
mentions of it can be heard in movies like Trading Places and Meet the Parents.
"G.I. JOE fans have waited a long time for this. Everyone remembers their
ADVENTURE TEAM figures from their childhood, especially the ones with KUNG-FU
GRIP, the G.I. JOE signature, gripping rubber action hands.
The phrase `I've got you in my Kung-Fu Grip' was the touchstone of a generation of boys,"
said Derryl DePriest, Director of Marketing for Hasbro's G.I. JOE brand. "We're really
excited about bringing back such a big part of G.I. JOE history for a whole new
generation to enjoy."
The first figure fashioned with the new KUNG-FU GRIP is the G.I. JOE Danger
of the Depths figure, which comes equipped with all the essential underwater
mission gear (approximate retail price $29.99). The figure is now available in
stores nationwide.
Other figures in the line that will have the new grip are
Search for the Yeti (Echo Assortment, approximate retail price $29.99, scheduled
to be in stores in September), Undercover Agent (Toys "R" Us exclusive,
scheduled to be in stores in October) and Black Spider Rendezvous (Target
exclusive, also scheduled to be available in October).
For more information about G.I. JOE, visit www.gijoe.com. For additional information about the
Official G.I. JOE Collector's Club, call (817) 448-9863, or visit www.mastercollector.com
