Buzz Lightyear Action Figure Top 10 Christmas Toys 1996

Buzz Lightyear Action Figure Top 10 Christmas Toys 1996

The Buzz Lightyear Action Figure of 1996 was one of the most exciting toys of the decade, bringing Pixar’s Toy Story hero straight into children’s hands. With his wings, laser light, and catchphrases like “To infinity and beyond!”, Buzz became the ultimate companion for imaginative play. For children unwrapping him on Christmas morning, he wasn’t just a toy—he was a space ranger ready for adventure.

1996: A Year in Context

1996 in the UK was a year when Toy Story was still fresh in the minds of children and parents. Released in late 1995, it was the world’s first fully computer-animated feature film, and it had taken cinemas by storm. Buzz Lightyear quickly became the breakout star, and his action figure was at the top of wish lists across the country.

From Screen to Toy Box

The Buzz Lightyear figure brought the movie’s magic to life. With wings that popped out at the press of a button, a laser beam light, and voice lines taken straight from the film, the toy felt like the real Buzz. Children could relive their favourite moments from Toy Story or invent entirely new adventures (see Buzz Lightyear history).

Christmas Morning Excitement

Parents recall the squeals of joy as kids tore open boxes to reveal their space ranger hero. Buzz was often paired with Woody, allowing children to recreate the film’s famous friendship. Living rooms turned into outer space battlefields as Buzz soared around with his wings outstretched and his catchphrases echoing around the house.

Adverts and Popularity

Television adverts showcased Buzz flying through imaginary galaxies, battling Emperor Zurg, and calling out his signature lines. The marketing played heavily on the film’s success, ensuring that by Christmas 1996, toy shops struggled to keep him on the shelves. Parents queued outside stores to secure one, echoing the craze of other iconic toys of the era.

Price Then and Now

In 1996, a Buzz Lightyear Action Figure retailed for around £24.99, or about £50 today. Larger, deluxe versions with more features were more expensive. Today, original Buzz figures from the nineties are highly collectable, especially boxed editions, and remain prized pieces for Pixar fans and toy collectors alike.

Why Kids Loved It

Children loved Buzz Lightyear because he was more than just a toy—he was a hero. His interactive features, bold design, and direct link to a beloved film gave him a special status in toy boxes. Buzz encouraged role-play, teamwork, and imaginative adventures, embodying the best of what an action figure could be.

Nostalgia and Legacy

For many who grew up in the nineties, Buzz Lightyear is one of the most iconic toys they owned. Adults today recall pressing his buttons endlessly, flying him through the air, and quoting his famous lines. His legacy endures through countless re-releases, sequels, and spin-offs, but the original 1996 toy holds a special place in fans’ hearts.

1996 Christmas Memories

Families remember Buzz Lightyear being the toy that everyone wanted, with parents often struggling to find one in time for Christmas. Children recall proudly showing him off to friends and pairing him with Woody for hours of imaginative play. For many, Buzz was the star of Christmas 1996, just as he had been the star of the big screen.

Conclusion

The Buzz Lightyear Action Figure of 1996 was more than just a toy—it was the embodiment of Pixar magic brought home. With his wings, lights, sounds, and catchphrases, he became one of the most memorable Christmas gifts of the decade. If you remember shouting “To infinity and beyond!” while flying him around your living room, revisit the nostalgia in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 1996 archive. See how he compares with the most popular Christmas toys, and explore how Toy Story toys continue to inspire in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 2025 guide. Buzz Lightyear remains the ultimate space ranger of childhood dreams.

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