Jump to content

Sonny Angel: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
m added new information
Tags: Reverted Visual edit
clean up, replaced: between $10 to → between $10 and, typo(s) fixed: ’s → 's, between 500 to → between 500 and
 
(38 intermediate revisions by 13 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Japanese collectible figurines}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{Infobox toy
{{refimprove|date=October 2023}}
|name=Sonny Angel
{{tone|date=October 2023}}
|image=File:Sonny Angel Collection.png
{{Orphan|date=August 2023}}
|caption=A display case of Sonny Angel figurines featuring the Donna Wilson collaboration, Carnival, and Animal Series.
|inventor=Toru Soeya
|company=Dreams Inc.
|country=Japan
|from=May 15, 2004
|to=Present
|slogan="He may bring you happiness."
|website=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/
|type=[[:Category:Toy figurines|Toy figurines]]
}}
}}


'''Sonny Angel''' is a line of [[Putto|cherub]] figurines created by Japanese [[toy]] manufacturer Toru Soeya, the [[Chief executive officer|CEO]] of the Japanese company, Dreams Inc. The name is derived from Soeya's nickname, 'Sonny.' Sonny Angels are sold in [[blind box]]es, with figures featuring different headgear and occasionally different outfits in various collections. The [[slogan]] of Sonny Angel is, "He may bring you happiness."
{{Short description|Japanese collectible figurines}}
'''Sonny Angel''' is a line of [[cherub]] figurines created by Japanese [[toy]] manufacturer Toru Soeya, the [[Chief executive officer|CEO]] of the Japanese company Dreams. The character's name is derived from Soeya's nickname, 'Sonny.' Sonny Angels are sold in [[Blind box|blind boxes]], featuring different headgear and occasionally different outfits in various collections. The [[slogan]] of Sonny Angel is, "He may bring you happiness."


Sonny Angels are often purchased as [[Collectable|collectibles]]. Some Sonny Angels are resold for far more than their original retail value and are often exchanged or resold at trading events.
Sonny Angels are often purchased as [[Collectable|collectibles]]. Some Sonny Angels are resold for far more than their original retail value and are often exchanged or resold at trading events and online resale platforms.


== Origins ==
== Origins ==
Sonny Angel was launched on May 15, 2004. The figurine started out as an 18-centimeter (7-inch) doll and was inspired by the character [[Kewpie]]. Sonny was later transformed into a 7-centimeter (3-inch) mini figure and is now sold in over 33 countries.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en |access-date=2023-05-11 |website=www.sonnyangel.com |archive-date=2024-05-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074314/https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Sonny Angel was launched on May 15, 2004. The figurine started as an 18-centimeter (7-inch) doll and was inspired by the character [[Kewpie]]. Sonny was later transformed into a 7-centimeter (3-inch) minifigure and is now sold in over 33 countries.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en |access-date=2023-05-11 |website=www.sonnyangel.com |archive-date=2024-05-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525074314/https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


The Sonny Angel figurines are sold as blind boxes, a category of collectible product that makes the contents of the package a mystery until it is opened.<ref name=":1" /> The blind box industry originated in the early 20th century in Japanese department stores with collectible cards. With a concurrent rise in the popularity of fashion toys, the industry attracted further investment and gained attention from both merchants and investors. Early versions of the blind box concept were seen in [[Gashapon]] toys, where small blind-box [[capsule toy]]s were dispensed through vending machines.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Yang |first=Yuqing |date=November 2023 |title=Analysis on the Marketing Strategy of Blind Box |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375551639_Analysis_on_the_Marketing_Strategy_of_Blind_Box |journal=ResearchGate}}</ref>
Some Sonny Angel collections include a mini figure named Robby, described as Sonny's best friend. Robby can camouflage and can change outfits with Sonny. In collections containing a Robby figure, the probability of obtaining Robby is lower compared to Sonny collection; with 1 out of every 144 figures being a Robby.<ref>{{Cite web |title=23 Fun Facts You Need To Know About Sonny Angels |url=https://lovelylittlehouse.com/blogs/read/fun-facts-about-sonny-angels |access-date=2023-05-11 |website=Lovely Little House |date=25 December 2022 |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230511073005/https://lovelylittlehouse.com/blogs/read/fun-facts-about-sonny-angels |url-status=live }}</ref>


== In media ==
== Media ==
Sonny Angel figurines grew in popularity in [[TikTok]] where the hashtag "#sonnyangel" gathered over 95 million views as of April 2023.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |last=O'Neill |first=Shane |date=April 6, 2023 |title=Why Do People Love This Tiny Doll? |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/06/style/sonny-angels-dolls-tiktok.html |website=The New York Times}}</ref> In these short TikTok videos, people would create videos that showed unboxings, fan art, purchase hauls, and meetups with other Sony Angel fans. The viral nature of the figurine, in addition to the publicized scarcity of certain variants has increased consumer demand.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Glass |first=Mia |date=2024-07-29 |title=How Sonny Angels and Smiskis Took Over TikTok |url=https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/business/international/2024/07/29/how-sonny-angels-and-smiskis-took-over-tiktok/ |access-date=2024-11-06 |website=BNN Bloomberg |language=en}}</ref>


''[[The New York Times]]'' covered a Sonny Angel figurines event on April 6, 2023, where 150 people met in [[Washington Square Park]] to buy, sell, and trade the dolls with other enthusiasts.<ref name=":02" />
=== News articles ===
Sonny Angel was featured in ''[[The New York Times]]'' on April 6, 2023. The article was titled "Why Do People Love This Tiny Doll?" and described Sonny as a "fictitious 2-year-old cherub designed to be a tiny companion for working women in their mid-20s dealing with the stresses of adulthood."<ref>{{Cite news |last=O’Neill |first=Shane |date=2023-04-06 |title=Why Do People Love This Tiny Doll? |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/06/style/sonny-angels-dolls-tiktok.html |access-date=2023-05-11 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=2023-05-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230511072954/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/06/style/sonny-angels-dolls-tiktok.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The article followed a Sonny Angel meetup in [[Washington Square Park]], where people met to trade and bond over their love of Sonny Angel. The event was sponsored by the Torine clothing line, such as those of [[Sylvanian Families|Calico Critters]].


Sonny Angels was featured on a ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'' skit on May 4, 2024, where [[Marcello Hernandez|Marcello Hernández]], [[Dua Lipa]] and [[Bowen Yang]] performed a skit about the craze surrounding the figurines.<ref name=":0" /> In the skit, Yang played a Sonny Angel fighting Hernández's character to win the romantic attention of Lipa, a Sonny Angel collector.
===Television===
Sonny Angel was featured in a ''[[Challengers (film)|Challengers]]''-inspired sketch on a [[Saturday Night Live season 49|season 49]] episode of ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'', hosted by pop singer [[Dua Lipa]], which aired on May 4, 2024.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Campione |first1=Katie |title='Saturday Night Live': Dua Lipa Makes An Intense Date In 'Challengers'-Inspired Sketch |url=https://deadline.com/2024/05/snl-spoofs-challengers-dua-lipa-1235904700/ |website=Deadline |date=5 May 2024 |access-date=5 May 2024 |archive-date=5 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240505061510/https://deadline.com/2024/05/snl-spoofs-challengers-dua-lipa-1235904700/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


== Collaborations ==
== Collaborations ==


=== Donna Wilson ===
=== Donna Wilson ===
Sonny Angel collaborated with Donna Wilson, an award winning designer for her distinctive use of color and pattern,<ref>{{Cite web |last=WIlson |first=Donna |title=About Donna Wilson |url=https://www.donnawilson.com/our-story |url-status=live}}</ref> to create the Creature series. The series includes 12 kinds and 1 secret. The collaboration was released on June 28th, 2022 in Japan.<ref>{{Cite web |title=New Release：「Sonny Angel mini figure Creatures series – Collaboration with Donna Wilson-」 |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/creatures-series/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
In June 2022, Sonny Angel partnered with London-based textile artist Donna Wilson to create the "Creature Series." This collaboration introduced 12 mini figurines and one secret figurine which were each wrapped in cottage-shaped blind boxes.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/creatures-series/ |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=www.sonnyangel.com}}</ref>

=== KEMElife ===
In July 2022, Sonny Angel collaborated with KEMElife, an art toy brand, to develop the "Everything Have Souls" series, featuring a rabbit and a tiger, which symbolizes innocence and bravery, respectively, in Chinese folklore.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-20 |title=New Release：『Sonny Angel Artist Collection × KEMElife -Everything Have Souls-』!! |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/2022/07/20/keme-life/ |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=www.sonnyangel.com}}</ref>


=== Casetify ===
=== Casetify ===
In July 2024, Sonny Angel collaborated with [[Casetify]], an accessories brand, to offer phone cases and accessories, inspired by the Sonny Angel Harvest Series, with fruit and vegetable motifs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kwak |first=Kristine |date=2024-07-10 |title=Casetify Taps Cult-Favorite Sonny Angel for Latest Partnership |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/product-recommendations/electronics/sonny-angel-casetify-collection-1235056700/ |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=Rolling Stone |language=en-US}}</ref> The collection was released on July 19, 2024, and included items such as the Sonny Angel x CASETiFY Heart Metal Phone Strap and a limited-edition blind box containing a Harvest Heart Series Case and matching Sonny Angel Hipper.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Delgado |first=Sara |date=2024-07-09 |title=Casetify’s Sonny Angel Collab Is the Cutest Farmer Market’s Dreamscape |url=https://www.teenvogue.com/story/casetify-sonny-angel-harvest-collection-collaboration |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=Teen Vogue |language=en-US}}</ref>
Sonny Angel collaborated with [[Casetify]] and was released all around the world on July 19th, 2024. This release included phone cases, a phone charm, and a blind box containing a phone case and its matching Hipper. The products used Sonny Angel Hippers from the best-selling Harvest series.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel |url=https://www.casetify.com/co-lab/sonny-angel?nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ag%3A6949270784%3A167988436027%3A706144916619&nb_placement=&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=201910_MOFU_SN_COLAB_US_Brand_ENG_Main&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=sonny+angel+x+casetify |url-status=live}}</ref>


== Sales ==
== Mini Figure (Regular Series) ==
[[File:Birthday Sonny Angel.jpg|thumb|Sonny Angel figurine from the "Birthday Series," wearing a bear costume, party hat, and holding a pink heart-shaped balloon.]]
Sonny Angel has a continuous collection known as the "Regular" series. These series are available for an extended period. Each series contains twelve listed Sonny Angels, depicted on the box, along with a secret Sonny and Robby. The series was updated in 2018 and 2019, with minor changes to Sonny and updated packaging, but the characters have largely remained unchanged. There are currently nine Regular Series, and they are as follows:
Sonny Angel figurines are typically priced between $10 and $12 depending on the series and retailer.<ref name=":0" /> Limited-edition releases have created a resale market where certain figurines can command prices significantly above retail, driven by collector demand and scarcity.<ref name=":2" /> On online platforms such as [[eBay]] and [[Depop]], rare figurines are often resold at higher prices, with some reaching up to ten times the original cost. For example, "secret" figurines can got up to $250 on eBay.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Abad-Santos |first=Alex |date=2024-07-08 |title=This tiny doll is making everyone so happy |url=https://www.vox.com/culture/357364/sonny-angel-hippers-shortage-explained |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=Vox |language=en-US}}</ref>


Trading among collectors through events that are organized by Sonny Angel consumers is common.<ref name=":02" /> Collectors often seek specific figures to finish a series or acquire rare editions.<ref name=":3" /> Some Sonny Angel enthusiasts are sellers and can sell anywhere between 500 and 1,000 Sonny Angels per week.<ref name=":3" />
=== Animal Series 1 ===
The twelve listed are Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Sloth, Tiger, White Bear, Cockerel, Dalmatian, Frog, Koala, Monkey, and Owl. The secret Sonny is Chipmunk. The Robby is green.


=== Animal Series 2 ===
== Cultural Impact ==
The twelve listed are Mouse, Lesser Panda, Hedgehog, Fawn, Duck, Cow, Chameleon, Uribou, Skunk, Sheep, Reindeer, and Pig. The secret Sonny is Kappa. The Robby is pink.


=== Animal Series 3 ===
=== Generation Z ===
Most fans of Sonny Angels are members of [[Generation Z]]. The collectible figurines have been heavily featured on social media platforms including TikTok- resulting in a massive supply shortage amongst the brands’ 441 authorized retailers.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Rogelberg |first=Jasmine Li,Sasha |title=Sonny Angel shortage explained: ‘There just aren’t enough pieces available’ |url=https://fortune.com/2024/04/19/sonny-angels-shortage-explained-gen-z/ |access-date=2024-11-07 |website=Fortune |language=en}}</ref>
The twelve listed are Parrot, Rhinoceros, Snake, Toy Poodle, Zebra, American Shorthair, Chihuahua, Crocodile, French Bulldog, Giraffe, Lop Ear Rabbit, and Macaw. The secret Sonny is a Unicorn. The Robby is orange.


Some attribute mental health benefits to the figurines, as some claim that the dolls provide comfort and nostalgia for one's childhood.<ref>{{Cite web |title=People are using tiny dolls (complete with tiny penises) as emotional support. Here's what you need to know. |url=https://www.mdlinx.com/article/people-are-using-tiny-dolls-complete-with-tiny-penises-as-emotional-support-heres-what-you-need-to/7IpFU0GIaaQW0Te3O02cAi |access-date=2024-11-07 |website=MDLinx |language=en}}</ref> Some also claim that the dolls provide emotionally isolated college students with a sense of personal connection and companionship.<ref name=":02" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ma |first=Jessica |last2= |first2= |date=2024-01-28 |title=Students fawn over Sonny Angel dolls as collectorship expands among Gen Z |url=https://dailynorthwestern.com/2024/01/28/lateststories/students-fawn-over-sonny-angel-dolls-as-collectorship-expands-among-gen-z/ |access-date=2024-11-07 |website=The Daily Northwestern}}</ref>
=== Animal Series 4 ===
The twelve listed are Hippopotamus, Horse, Lion, Peacock, Shiba Inu, Alpaca, Anteater, Buffalo, Calico Cat, Cheetah, Goat, and Gorilla. The secret Sonny is Dragon. The Robby is light blue.


The affordability of the figures may be part of the appeal to Gen Z fans, enabling consumers to build sizable collections.<ref name=":02" />
=== Flower Series ===
The twelve listed are Rose, Cherry Blossom, Poppy, Sunflower, Cactus, Morning Glory, Lily Bell, Hydrangea, Pansy, Carnation, Acorn, and Tulip. The secret Sonny is Bee. The Robby is purple.


=== Fruit Series ===
== Mini Figure (Regular Series) ==
Sonny Angel has a continuous collection known as the Regular Series. Each series contains twelve listed Sonny Angels, depicted on the box, along with a "Secret Sonny" and "Secret Robby" figurine variation that is higher in rarity. The series was updated in 2018 with minor changes to the Sonny Angel figurine shape and packaging.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel Regular Series |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/products/ |access-date=2024-11-16 |website=www.sonnyangel.com}}</ref>
The twelve listed are Raspberry, Peach, Orange, Pear, Strawberry, Grape, Watermelon, Melon, Durian, Dragon Fruit, Pineapple, and Apple. The secret Sonny is Seed Leaf. The Robby is yellow.


Limited Series are low-production collections initiated by seasonal drops for holidays or specialized themes, including Valentine's Day, Halloween, and Christmas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel Limited Series |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/products/mini-figure-limited/ |access-date=2024-11-16 |website=www.sonnyangel.com}}</ref>
=== Marine Series ===
{| class="wikitable"
The twelve listed are Shark, Jellyfish, Dolphin, Seal, Seahorse, Whale, Clownfish, Shell, Penguin, Manta, Blowfish, and Starfish. The secret Sonny is Turtle. The Robby is dark blue.
|+Sonny Angel (Regular Series)
!Series Name
!Listed Figurines
!Secret Sonny
!Secret Robby (Color)
|-
|Animal Series 1<ref>{{Cite web |title=Animal 1 Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/animal-series-ver-1 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Sloth, Tiger, White Bear, Cockerel, Dalmatian, Frog, Koala, Monkey, Owl
|
* Chipmunk
|
* Green
|-
|Animal Series 2<ref>{{Cite web |title=Animal 2 Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/animal-series-ver-2 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Mouse, Lesser Panda, Hedgehog, Fawn, Duck, Cow, Chameleon, Uribou, Skunk, Sheep, Reindeer, Pig
|
* Kappa
|
* Pink
|-
|Animal Series 3<ref>{{Cite web |title=Animal 3 Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/animal-series-ver-3 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Parrot, Rhinoceros, Snake, Toy Poodle, Zebra, American Shorthair, Chihuahua, Crocodile, French Bulldog, Giraffe, Lop Ear Rabbit, Macaw
|
* Unicorn
|
* Orange
|-
|Animal Series 4<ref>{{Cite web |title=Animal 4 Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/animal-series-ver-4 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Hippopotamus, Horse, Lion, Peacock, Shiba Inu, Alpaca, Anteater, Buffalo, Calico Cat, Cheetah, Goat, Gorilla
|
* Dragon
|
* Light Blue
|-
|Flower Series<ref>{{Cite web |title=Flower Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/minifigure-flower-series-2019 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Rose, Cherry Blossom, Poppy, Sunflower, Cactus, Morning Glory, Lily Bell, Hydrangea, Pansy, Carnation, Acorn, Tulip
|
* Bee
|
* Purple
|-
|Fruit Series<ref>{{Cite web |title=Fruit Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/minifigure-fruit-series-2019 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Raspberry, Peach, Orange, Pear, Strawberry, Grape, Watermelon, Melon, Durian, Dragonfruit, Pineapple, Apple
|
* Seed Leaf
|
* Yellow
|-
|Marine Series<ref>{{Cite web |title=Marine Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/minifigure-marine-series-2019 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Shark, Jellyfish, Dolphin, Seal, Seahorse, Whale, Clownfish, Shell, Penguin, Manta, Blowfish, Starfish
|
* Turtle
|
* Dark Blue
|-
|Sweets Series<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sweets Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/minifigure-sweets-series-2019 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Cream Puff, Cupcake, Fruit Tart, Ice Cream, Jellybeans, Konpeito, Pancake, Popcorn, Pudding, Candy, Cookie, Strawberry Shortcake
|
* Cook
|
* Pink
|-
|Vegetable Series<ref>{{Cite web |title=Vegetable Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/minifigure-vegetable-series-2019 |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Carrot, Tomato, Garlic, Zucchini, Onion, Radish, Green Pepper, Eggplant, Bok Choy, Corn, Cauliflower, Cabbage
|
* Mushroom
|
* Turquoise
|-
|Birthday Series<ref>{{Cite web |title=Birthday Gift Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/birthdaygift |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
|
* Chocolate Cake, Strawberry Shortcake, Raspberry Cake, Lemon Cake, Mint Cake, Blueberry Cake
|
* N/A
|
* N/A
|}


=== Sweets Series ===
== Mini Figure (Hippers Series) ==
[[File:Sonny angel.jpg|thumb|A Sonny Angel Hipper in the Apple variation, featuring an adhesive patch on the stomach for attaching to personal items.]]
The twelve listed are Cream Puff, Cupcake, Fruit Tart, Ice Cream, Jellybeans, Konpeito, Pancake, Popcorn, Pudding, Candy, Cookie, and Strawberry Shortcake, The secret Sonny is Cook. The Robby is pink.
"Hippers" are a smaller-scale variation of the Regular Series figurines, attached with adhesive tape to stick to the back of electronic devices and flat surfaces. Each series includes twelve Hippers, with the first variations being produced in 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel Hippers Series |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/products/mini-figure-hippers/ |access-date=2024-11-16 |website=www.sonnyangel.com}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
=== Vegetable Series ===
|+Sonny Angel (Hippers Series)
The twelve listed are Carrot, Tomato, Garlic, Zucchini, Onion, Radish, Green Pepper, Eggplant, Bok Choy, Corn, Cauliflower, and Cabbage. The secret Sonny is Mushroom. The Robby is turquoise.
!Series Name

!Listed Figurines
== Mini Figure (Hipper Series) ==
|-
Sonny Angel Hippers provide a new way to integrate these cute figures into your daily life. The Hippers come with an adhesive tape on the front in order to stick to the back of an electronic device or any other flat surface. Each series include twelve listed Hippers shown on the blind box. There are currently four Hippers Series and they are as follows:
|Hippers (2021)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel Hippers 2021 |url=https://www.sonnyangel.com/en/products/mini-figure-hippers/ |access-date=2024-11-14 |website=www.sonnyangel.com}}</ref>

|
=== HIPPERS (2021) ===
The twelve listed are Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Lion, Pig, Sheep, Koala, Fawn, Lop Ear Rabbit, Duck, Mouse, and Giraffe.
* Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Lion, Pig, Sheep, Koala, Fawn, Lop Ear Rabbit, Duck, Mouse, Giraffe.
|-

|Hippers Harvest Series (2022)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hippers - Harvest Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/hippers-harvest-series |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
=== HIPPERS Harvest Series (2022) ===
|
The twelve listed are Apple, Carrot, Pineapple, Strawberry, Pear, Cherry, Grape, Mushroom, Tomato, Melon, Radish, and Eggplant.
* Apple, Carrot, Pineapple, Strawberry, Pear, Cherry, Grape, Mushroom, Tomato, Melon, Radish, Eggplant.

|-
=== HIPPERS Dreaming Series (2022) ===
|Hippers Dreaming Series (2022)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonny Angel Hippers Dreaming Series |url=https://www.sonnyangelstore.com/en/products/hippersdreamingseries |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=Sonny Angel Store |language=en}}</ref>
The twelve listed are Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Lion, Pig, Sheep, Koara, Fawn, Lopear Rabbit, Duck, Mouse, and Giraffe.
|

* Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Lion, Pig, Sheep, Koara, Fawn, Lopear Rabbit, Duck, Mouse, Giraffe.
The Dreaming Series uses the same twelve from Hippers released in 2021, but with designs are different. The Dreaming Series uses pastel colors and each Hipper has their eyes closed.
* They are updated variations of the 2021 Hippers, with pastel colors and closed eyes as new additions to the figurines.

|-
=== HIPPERS Looking Back Series (2024) ===
|Hippers Looking Back Series (2024)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hippers Looking Back Series |url=https://sonnyangelusa.com/products/hippers-looking-back |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=sonnyangelstore-usa |language=en}}</ref>
The twelve listed are Monkey, Rabbit, Fawn, Duck, Crocodile, Mouse, Sloth, Hamster, Cat, Koala, Elephant, French Bull Dog.
|

* Monkey, Rabbit, Fawn, Duck, Crocodile, Mouse, Sloth, Hamster, Cat, Koala, Elephant, French Bulldog.
All the Hippers in the Looking Back Series are facing backward, as opposed to looking forward like every other Series.
|}

== Mini Figure (Limited Series) ==
Sonny Angel Limited Series do not have known set release dates but are typically released every couple months. The series contains multiple figures and may have Robby’s. Some of the Limited Series are seasonal drops, such as the Valentines, Halloween and Christmas release, while others just follow a theme, such as Bug’s World or Refreshing Cold Drinks. The drops are considered Limited as they may only ever be dropped once, never again, and or might be re-released sometime in the future.


== References ==
== References ==

{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


Line 91: Line 181:
[[Category:Dolls]]
[[Category:Dolls]]
[[Category:Japanese dolls]]
[[Category:Japanese dolls]]
[[Category:Toy figurines]]

Latest revision as of 19:59, 21 November 2024

Sonny Angel
A display case of Sonny Angel figurines featuring the Donna Wilson collaboration, Carnival, and Animal Series.
TypeToy figurines
Inventor(s)Toru Soeya
CompanyDreams Inc.
CountryJapan
AvailabilityMay 15, 2004–Present
Slogan"He may bring you happiness."
Official website

Sonny Angel is a line of cherub figurines created by Japanese toy manufacturer Toru Soeya, the CEO of the Japanese company, Dreams Inc. The name is derived from Soeya's nickname, 'Sonny.' Sonny Angels are sold in blind boxes, with figures featuring different headgear and occasionally different outfits in various collections. The slogan of Sonny Angel is, "He may bring you happiness."

Sonny Angels are often purchased as collectibles. Some Sonny Angels are resold for far more than their original retail value and are often exchanged or resold at trading events and online resale platforms.

Origins

[edit]

Sonny Angel was launched on May 15, 2004. The figurine started as an 18-centimeter (7-inch) doll and was inspired by the character Kewpie. Sonny was later transformed into a 7-centimeter (3-inch) minifigure and is now sold in over 33 countries.[1]

The Sonny Angel figurines are sold as blind boxes, a category of collectible product that makes the contents of the package a mystery until it is opened.[1] The blind box industry originated in the early 20th century in Japanese department stores with collectible cards. With a concurrent rise in the popularity of fashion toys, the industry attracted further investment and gained attention from both merchants and investors. Early versions of the blind box concept were seen in Gashapon toys, where small blind-box capsule toys were dispensed through vending machines.[2]

Media

[edit]

Sonny Angel figurines grew in popularity in TikTok where the hashtag "#sonnyangel" gathered over 95 million views as of April 2023.[3] In these short TikTok videos, people would create videos that showed unboxings, fan art, purchase hauls, and meetups with other Sony Angel fans. The viral nature of the figurine, in addition to the publicized scarcity of certain variants has increased consumer demand.[4]

The New York Times covered a Sonny Angel figurines event on April 6, 2023, where 150 people met in Washington Square Park to buy, sell, and trade the dolls with other enthusiasts.[3]

Sonny Angels was featured on a Saturday Night Live skit on May 4, 2024, where Marcello Hernández, Dua Lipa and Bowen Yang performed a skit about the craze surrounding the figurines.[4] In the skit, Yang played a Sonny Angel fighting Hernández's character to win the romantic attention of Lipa, a Sonny Angel collector.

Collaborations

[edit]

Donna Wilson

[edit]

In June 2022, Sonny Angel partnered with London-based textile artist Donna Wilson to create the "Creature Series." This collaboration introduced 12 mini figurines and one secret figurine which were each wrapped in cottage-shaped blind boxes.[5]

KEMElife

[edit]

In July 2022, Sonny Angel collaborated with KEMElife, an art toy brand, to develop the "Everything Have Souls" series, featuring a rabbit and a tiger, which symbolizes innocence and bravery, respectively, in Chinese folklore.[6]

Casetify

[edit]

In July 2024, Sonny Angel collaborated with Casetify, an accessories brand, to offer phone cases and accessories, inspired by the Sonny Angel Harvest Series, with fruit and vegetable motifs.[7] The collection was released on July 19, 2024, and included items such as the Sonny Angel x CASETiFY Heart Metal Phone Strap and a limited-edition blind box containing a Harvest Heart Series Case and matching Sonny Angel Hipper.[8]

Sales

[edit]
Sonny Angel figurine from the "Birthday Series," wearing a bear costume, party hat, and holding a pink heart-shaped balloon.

Sonny Angel figurines are typically priced between $10 and $12 depending on the series and retailer.[4] Limited-edition releases have created a resale market where certain figurines can command prices significantly above retail, driven by collector demand and scarcity.[9] On online platforms such as eBay and Depop, rare figurines are often resold at higher prices, with some reaching up to ten times the original cost. For example, "secret" figurines can got up to $250 on eBay.[10]

Trading among collectors through events that are organized by Sonny Angel consumers is common.[3] Collectors often seek specific figures to finish a series or acquire rare editions.[10] Some Sonny Angel enthusiasts are sellers and can sell anywhere between 500 and 1,000 Sonny Angels per week.[10]

Cultural Impact

[edit]

Generation Z

[edit]

Most fans of Sonny Angels are members of Generation Z. The collectible figurines have been heavily featured on social media platforms including TikTok- resulting in a massive supply shortage amongst the brands’ 441 authorized retailers.[9]

Some attribute mental health benefits to the figurines, as some claim that the dolls provide comfort and nostalgia for one's childhood.[11] Some also claim that the dolls provide emotionally isolated college students with a sense of personal connection and companionship.[3][12]

The affordability of the figures may be part of the appeal to Gen Z fans, enabling consumers to build sizable collections.[3]

Mini Figure (Regular Series)

[edit]

Sonny Angel has a continuous collection known as the Regular Series. Each series contains twelve listed Sonny Angels, depicted on the box, along with a "Secret Sonny" and "Secret Robby" figurine variation that is higher in rarity. The series was updated in 2018 with minor changes to the Sonny Angel figurine shape and packaging.[13]

Limited Series are low-production collections initiated by seasonal drops for holidays or specialized themes, including Valentine's Day, Halloween, and Christmas.[14]

Sonny Angel (Regular Series)
Series Name Listed Figurines Secret Sonny Secret Robby (Color)
Animal Series 1[15]
  • Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Sloth, Tiger, White Bear, Cockerel, Dalmatian, Frog, Koala, Monkey, Owl
  • Chipmunk
  • Green
Animal Series 2[16]
  • Mouse, Lesser Panda, Hedgehog, Fawn, Duck, Cow, Chameleon, Uribou, Skunk, Sheep, Reindeer, Pig
  • Kappa
  • Pink
Animal Series 3[17]
  • Parrot, Rhinoceros, Snake, Toy Poodle, Zebra, American Shorthair, Chihuahua, Crocodile, French Bulldog, Giraffe, Lop Ear Rabbit, Macaw
  • Unicorn
  • Orange
Animal Series 4[18]
  • Hippopotamus, Horse, Lion, Peacock, Shiba Inu, Alpaca, Anteater, Buffalo, Calico Cat, Cheetah, Goat, Gorilla
  • Dragon
  • Light Blue
Flower Series[19]
  • Rose, Cherry Blossom, Poppy, Sunflower, Cactus, Morning Glory, Lily Bell, Hydrangea, Pansy, Carnation, Acorn, Tulip
  • Bee
  • Purple
Fruit Series[20]
  • Raspberry, Peach, Orange, Pear, Strawberry, Grape, Watermelon, Melon, Durian, Dragonfruit, Pineapple, Apple
  • Seed Leaf
  • Yellow
Marine Series[21]
  • Shark, Jellyfish, Dolphin, Seal, Seahorse, Whale, Clownfish, Shell, Penguin, Manta, Blowfish, Starfish
  • Turtle
  • Dark Blue
Sweets Series[22]
  • Cream Puff, Cupcake, Fruit Tart, Ice Cream, Jellybeans, Konpeito, Pancake, Popcorn, Pudding, Candy, Cookie, Strawberry Shortcake
  • Cook
  • Pink
Vegetable Series[23]
  • Carrot, Tomato, Garlic, Zucchini, Onion, Radish, Green Pepper, Eggplant, Bok Choy, Corn, Cauliflower, Cabbage
  • Mushroom
  • Turquoise
Birthday Series[24]
  • Chocolate Cake, Strawberry Shortcake, Raspberry Cake, Lemon Cake, Mint Cake, Blueberry Cake
  • N/A
  • N/A

Mini Figure (Hippers Series)

[edit]
A Sonny Angel Hipper in the Apple variation, featuring an adhesive patch on the stomach for attaching to personal items.

"Hippers" are a smaller-scale variation of the Regular Series figurines, attached with adhesive tape to stick to the back of electronic devices and flat surfaces. Each series includes twelve Hippers, with the first variations being produced in 2021.[25]

Sonny Angel (Hippers Series)
Series Name Listed Figurines
Hippers (2021)[26]
  • Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Lion, Pig, Sheep, Koala, Fawn, Lop Ear Rabbit, Duck, Mouse, Giraffe.
Hippers Harvest Series (2022)[27]
  • Apple, Carrot, Pineapple, Strawberry, Pear, Cherry, Grape, Mushroom, Tomato, Melon, Radish, Eggplant.
Hippers Dreaming Series (2022)[28]
  • Rabbit, Elephant, Panda, Lion, Pig, Sheep, Koara, Fawn, Lopear Rabbit, Duck, Mouse, Giraffe.
  • They are updated variations of the 2021 Hippers, with pastel colors and closed eyes as new additions to the figurines.
Hippers Looking Back Series (2024)[29]
  • Monkey, Rabbit, Fawn, Duck, Crocodile, Mouse, Sloth, Hamster, Cat, Koala, Elephant, French Bulldog.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Sonny Angel". www.sonnyangel.com. Archived from the original on 2024-05-25. Retrieved 2023-05-11.
  2. ^ Yang, Yuqing (November 2023). "Analysis on the Marketing Strategy of Blind Box". ResearchGate.
  3. ^ a b c d e O'Neill, Shane (April 6, 2023). "Why Do People Love This Tiny Doll?". The New York Times.
  4. ^ a b c Glass, Mia (2024-07-29). "How Sonny Angels and Smiskis Took Over TikTok". BNN Bloomberg. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
  5. ^ "Sonny Angel". www.sonnyangel.com. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  6. ^ "New Release：『Sonny Angel Artist Collection × KEMElife -Everything Have Souls-』!!". www.sonnyangel.com. 2022-07-20. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  7. ^ Kwak, Kristine (2024-07-10). "Casetify Taps Cult-Favorite Sonny Angel for Latest Partnership". Rolling Stone. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  8. ^ Delgado, Sara (2024-07-09). "Casetify's Sonny Angel Collab Is the Cutest Farmer Market's Dreamscape". Teen Vogue. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  9. ^ a b Rogelberg, Jasmine Li,Sasha. "Sonny Angel shortage explained: 'There just aren't enough pieces available'". Fortune. Retrieved 2024-11-07.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  10. ^ a b c Abad-Santos, Alex (2024-07-08). "This tiny doll is making everyone so happy". Vox. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  11. ^ "People are using tiny dolls (complete with tiny penises) as emotional support. Here's what you need to know". MDLinx. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  12. ^ Ma, Jessica (2024-01-28). "Students fawn over Sonny Angel dolls as collectorship expands among Gen Z". The Daily Northwestern. Retrieved 2024-11-07.
  13. ^ "Sonny Angel Regular Series". www.sonnyangel.com. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
  14. ^ "Sonny Angel Limited Series". www.sonnyangel.com. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
  15. ^ "Animal 1 Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  16. ^ "Animal 2 Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  17. ^ "Animal 3 Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  18. ^ "Animal 4 Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  19. ^ "Flower Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  20. ^ "Fruit Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  21. ^ "Marine Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  22. ^ "Sweets Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  23. ^ "Vegetable Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  24. ^ "Birthday Gift Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  25. ^ "Sonny Angel Hippers Series". www.sonnyangel.com. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
  26. ^ "Sonny Angel Hippers 2021". www.sonnyangel.com. Retrieved 2024-11-14.
  27. ^ "Hippers - Harvest Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  28. ^ "Sonny Angel Hippers Dreaming Series". Sonny Angel Store. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  29. ^ "Hippers Looking Back Series". sonnyangelstore-usa. Retrieved 2024-11-12.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Sonny_Angel&oldid=1258816254"