In an exciting and highly-anticipated announcement, the National Toy Hall of Fame revealed its 2023 inductees, including the beloved Fisher-Price Corn Popper. This year's winners, which also included baseball cards, Cabbage Patch Kids, and NERF toys, were chosen based on their ability to encourage play and captivate the imagination of people of all ages.

The Fisher-Price Corn Popper, a classic push toy that aids in the development of walking, was elevated to the Hall of Fame after being a perpetual finalist. Fans rallied behind this iconic toy, pushing it to the forefront and solidifying its place in toy history. The Fisher-Price Corn Popper has delighted generations of children, serving as a trusted companion on their journey of discovery and mobility.

Baseball cards, with their enduring appeal and ability to foster a lifelong fascination with the sport, were also recognized by the Hall of Fame. These collectible cards have provided countless hours of enjoyment for fans young and old, sparking a passion for both the game and the art of collecting.

Cabbage Patch Kids, cherished for their unique personalities and the imaginative storytelling they inspire, were another deserving inductee. These iconic dolls, originally created by Xavier Roberts, have been a staple in children's playrooms since their introduction in the 1980s. Their undeniable charm and timeless appeal have made them a beloved part of toy history.

NERF toys, known for their versatility and ability to bring together people of all ages in spirited play, rounded out this year's inductees. These foam-based toys have captured the hearts of children and adults alike, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor play and creating memories that last a lifetime.

While the 2023 inductees represent a diverse range of play experiences, one notable absence was Barbie's on-again, off-again boyfriend, Ken. Despite receiving renewed global attention after being portrayed by Ryan Gosling in the blockbuster “Barbie” movie, Ken was unable to secure a spot in the Toy Hall of Fame. Perhaps fittingly, Ken's exclusion aligns with his role in the film, where he sings, "Doesn't seem to matter what I do. I'm always No. 2."

These newly-inducted toys, along with a host of other iconic playthings, will now be permanently displayed at the National Toy Hall of Fame, housed within The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York. Christopher Bensch, the museum's vice president for collections and chief curator, expressed his enthusiasm for this year's selections, stating, "These four inductees represent a great blend of types of play for people of all ages."

Since its establishment in 1998, the National Toy Hall of Fame has welcomed numerous toys into its prestigious ranks. From humble entries like the cardboard box to ancient pastimes like chess, the Hall of Fame recognizes the enduring impact of these toys on cultural and creative play. The 2023 inductees, including the Fisher-Price Corn Popper, join an esteemed list of honorees that have shaped the landscape of childhood for generations.

As fans celebrate the recognition of their favorite toys, the National Toy Hall of Fame continues to preserve the legacy of these beloved playthings, ensuring their enduring significance in the world of toys and beyond. The contributions of toys such as the Fisher-Price Corn Popper, baseball cards, Cabbage Patch Kids, and NERF toys will forever be enshrined in the annals of toy history, reminding us of the joy and wonder they have brought to countless lives.