In a significant development for the toy industry, Mattel has announced it will reclaim the coveted DC Comics toy license in 2026, marking a return to a partnership that previously lasted for decades.
The licensing agreement, which gives Mattel the rights to produce action figures, vehicles, and playsets based on Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and other beloved DC characters, represents a major win for the toymaker after losing the license to rival Spin Master in 2020.
Industry analysts see this as a strategic move by both Mattel and Warner Bros. Discovery, which owns DC Comics. For Mattel, regaining the DC license bolsters its portfolio of character-based toys, while Warner Bros. likely values Mattel's global distribution network and proven track record with the property.
The multi-year agreement is expected to take effect in January 2026, giving Mattel time to develop new product lines that will likely incorporate modern technology and play patterns while honoring the classic appeal of DC superheroes.
Financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, though licensing agreements of this caliber typically involve significant minimum guarantees and royalty arrangements.
Fans can expect to see the first wave of Mattel's new DC offerings unveiled at Toy Fair 2025, with products hitting shelves the following year. The announcement has already generated excitement among collectors who fondly remember Mattel's previous DC lines, particularly the popular DC Universe Classics series.