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Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Westbrook Studios, in partnership with Altar Rock Pictures, are set to breathe new life into the iconic 1989 toy brand Monster In My Pocket. With over 200 pocket-sized, collectible monsters drawn from global myths and legends, the producers aim to develop a live-action series adaptation of the beloved toy line. Deadline was first to report.
Founded by former Mattel executives Joe Morrison and John Weems, the brand has enjoyed considerable success–though only ’90s kids may remember this–with over 500 million units sold globally since its launch. The toys have a long history of jumping from toys to other formats, including a 1992 ABC animated TV special, comic books, and a Nintendo game.
Terence Carter and David Boorstein of Westbrook Studios, joined by Barbara Goldner and Josh Feldman of Altar Rock Pictures, serve as executive producers for the project. Joe Morrison and Maggie Morrison, representing Morrison Entertainment Group, are also members of the production team.
“Monster In My Pocket had such a major impact on our culture,” David Boorstein, SVP, head of Scripted TV at Westbrook Studios, said about the project. “We’re excited to dive into the rich, captivating legends of these beloved characters.” Currently, the producers are in discussions with writers to bring the toy brand to life as a series that resonates with a new generation of viewers.
In similar, related nostalgia news: In 2021, Garbage Pail Kids, the ’80s sticker trading cards known for parodying the popular Cabbage Patch Kids, were reportedly under consideration for an animated series revival at Max. Actor Danny McBride (The Righteous Gemstones, Eastbound & Down), along with his production company Rough House Pictures, is working in collaboration with collectibles manufacturer Topps and former Disney CEO Michael Eisner’s Tornante on the planned show.
