Teletubbies Plush Toys Top 10 Christmas Toys 1997

Teletubbies Plush Toys Top 10 Christmas Toys 1997

The Teletubbies Plush Toys of 1997 became one of the most sought-after Christmas gifts of the decade. Based on the hit BBC children’s programme, these colourful soft toys let kids bring Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa, and Po into their own homes. For children unwrapping them on Christmas morning, they weren’t just plush dolls—they were cuddly versions of their favourite TV friends, complete with smiling faces and jingles of nostalgia.

1997: A Year in Context

1997 in the UK was the year Teletubbies mania swept the nation. The BBC programme, aimed at preschoolers, premiered in March and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. With its surreal characters, bright colours, and simple storytelling, it captivated children and became the latest must-have brand. By the end of the year, Teletubbies were not only dominating television but also the toy market.

From TV to Toy Box

The plush toys replicated the beloved characters in huggable form. Each doll came in its distinctive colour with a soft body and friendly face. Some editions even included sound chips that played giggles or phrases from the show, adding to the magic. For children, it felt like bringing their favourite Teletubby straight out of the television (see Teletubbies history).

Christmas Morning Excitement

Parents recall the delight of toddlers hugging their Teletubby plush as soon as they opened the wrapping paper. Living rooms quickly filled with giggles and catchphrases, as children proudly showed off their Tinky Winky or Po. The toys became instant companions, carried everywhere and tucked into bed at night.

Adverts and Popularity

Television adverts, combined with the show’s daily broadcasts, made Teletubbies unavoidable in 1997. Their popularity was so overwhelming that retailers reported shortages, with parents queuing at dawn and sometimes fighting over the last plush toys on shelves. By Christmas, Teletubbies toys had reached near hysteria levels of demand, much like the craze of Tickle Me Elmo in the US the year before.

Price Then and Now

In 1997, a Teletubbies Plush Toy retailed for around £19.99, or about £40 today. Larger talking versions cost more, but all were in high demand. Today, original plush toys remain nostalgic collectables, especially those still in working order with their sound features intact.

Why Kids Loved It

Children loved Teletubbies plush toys because they gave them a tangible connection to their favourite TV characters. The soft, friendly design made them ideal companions for bedtime, playtime, and adventures around the house. The recognisable colours and simple features made them instantly comforting for young children, while their popularity made them a badge of pride on the playground.

Nostalgia and Legacy

For many who grew up in the late nineties, Teletubbies plush toys remain a nostalgic symbol of childhood. Adults today recall carrying them everywhere, acting out the show’s silly skits, and hearing their catchphrases on repeat. The legacy of the toys continues with modern reissues, though the originals still hold a special place in the hearts of fans.

1997 Christmas Memories

Families remember the mad rush to secure Teletubbies toys in time for Christmas. Parents recall the stress of shortages, while children remember the pure joy of hugging their favourite Teletubby under the tree. For many, it was the toy that defined Christmas 1997, a year when television and toys merged into one unstoppable craze.

Conclusion

The Teletubbies Plush Toys of 1997 were more than just dolls—they were cultural icons that defined a generation of preschoolers. With their cuddly design and connection to a beloved TV show, they became one of the most memorable Christmas gifts of the decade. If you remember cuddling your own Tinky Winky or Po, revisit the nostalgia in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 1997 archive. See how they compare with the most popular Christmas toys, and explore their enduring popularity in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 2025 guide. The Teletubbies will forever be remembered as the colourful stars of Christmas 1997.

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