Wal-Mart Rolls Out Talking Jesus Doll

 TheStar.com - Business - Wal-Mart tests waters with talking Jesus doll

Jul 18, 2007 04:30 AM

Wal-Mart says it's planning to test sales in some stores of biblical action figures, including a talking Jesus doll and Samson action figure.

The toys, made by California company One2believe, will be offered in 425 of Wal-Mart's 3,376 discount stores in August, a spokesperson said, adding: "It is a test. It's not a national rollout."

One2believe chief executive David Socha said his products, which so far have been sold directly to churches and ministries through the company website, were part of a "battle for the toy box" with dolls and figures that he said carry negative messages.

"If you're very religious, it's a battle for your children's minds and what they're playing with and pretending," he said.

"There are remakes out there of Satan and evil things."

Wal-Mart has always carried some faith products, mainly stationery, books and music, but this is the first toy line with a faith theme.[/q]