It’s hard to believe that E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial came out 40 years ago, but it has been four decades since the lovable alien entered our lives. Universal and Amblin Entertainment are celebrating the milestone with a slew of new E.T. toys, a re-release of the film in IMAX, special events, and more.
Parents can introduce their kids to this classic story of friendship and adventure with new products showcasing some of the most memorable moments. Here are some of the highlights.
Look for three new toys from Mattel: an interactive plush E.T. with the classic red hoodie and bicycle basket packaging for $33.99; a Fisher-Price Little People collectible set featuring E.T., Elliott, and Gertie for $20; and E.T.-inspired Hot Wheels character cars. When kids squeeze the plush E.T.’s finger, it will light up and play iconic movie phrases.
TOMY is launching the Toomies My Best Friend E.T. Interactive Plush for $35.99 and the Pop Up E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Action Game for $16.99. The 10-inch plush E.T. features more than 25 sounds, an interactive beating heart that lights up, and a warm nightlight mode. Recommended for kids ages 4 and up, the game involves kids hiding E.T. away so the grown-ups won’t find it (just like in the movie). Players can take turns to slip one of their sticks into the side of the barrel to see who will cause E.T. to spring out, heading for another galaxy.
Basic Fun! is launching new takes on retro classics, such as an E.T.-inspired Speak and Spell educational toy, and an E.T. Moon in My Room light that recreates the most iconic scene from the film while cycling through the lunar phases. The Basic Fun! products will be available exclusively on Amazon and at Universal Studios theme parks.
Fans can build their plush collections even further with plush characters and accessories from Build-A-Bear Workshop, The Noble Collection, Steiff, and Posh Paws. The E.T. Build-A-Bear features a light-up finger, a red hoodie, and a sound card that plays memorable phrases. The Noble Collection will also offer an E.T. BendyFig and a Toyllectible Treasure diorama inspired by the flying bicycle scene.
In addition, look for E.T.-inspired puzzles from Ravensburger; Hallmark ornaments featuring lights and sounds, as well as itty bittys mini plush characters; a BMX bicycle from Kuwahara based on the one Elliott rides in the film; collectibles from Funko; and books from Little Golden Books, Quirk, and Insight Editions.
Look for all of these products and major and specialty retailers soon. Fans can also rewatch the film when Universal Pictures Home Entertainment re-releases it on home entertainment platforms, featuring 45 minutes of brand-new bonus features. Keep up with all the latest news on social media using the hashtag #ET40th, and follow the official fan page @E.T.Movie on Facebook.
