Toy Titan #3: Ann of 1,000 toy-driven TV titles
It is a pleasure to feature Toy Titan #3: Ann Austen! Ann enjoys the distinction of being the first female in this ongoing article series; predecessors include Christopher Bensch (Strong Museum) and Drew Vernon (Tonies). Ann is a particular delight because 1) She shares the POWER RANGERS roots of yours truly, 2) She is a Barbie content auteur, 3) She is a Hollywood girl-power success story. Thanks for being born, Ann!
Speaking of birth, there is a parallel circle of life theme that runs through today’s Toy Titans installment. Toy Titans’ origin story is tied to the late Richard Gottlieb: GLOBAL TOY NEWS publisher, podcaster, and pal. As of last month, Richard smiles down on the toy and merch-driven entertainment business from that great playground in the sky. His October 26 death is the result of a two-year ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) battle, during which Richard selflessly planted the Toy Titans seeds.
Thank you for sparking this collection, Richard! May your memory motivate the industry to stay playful through every challenge.
And now, ladies and gents, please meet Ann Austen!
