Batman Joker action figure modeled on Heath Ledger: popular by death

We all knew the latest Batman movie “Dark Knight” was going to be popular, but as Heath Ledger died a few months back, this has made the movie and merchandise even more popular, especially if its to-do with Heath Ledger. The Joker action figure modeled on Heath Ledger was given the OK by his family, toy giants Mattel have launched two versions of the Heath joker doll and they released this month. The first is armed with a knife and the second has a rocket launcher. The family said that “Heath was very proud of his work in the film” and it looks like they wanted to-do what he would of wanted.

The problem has been that in the few days of this action figure releasing, they have been flying of the shelves. This may be in support of the movie or it could be collectors thinking of a toy being worth a lot of money in the future. The stores are having problems keeping the shelves stocked and the $9.99 Joker action figure has been ended up on eBay and just like other products that are in short supply, the sellers are putting a massive price increase on it. It’s been reported that one of the toys was seen at $55, that’s over $45 extra. One Toys R Us employee said that people would have to wait a while if they want one; they also said that none were left in the warehouse.

Do you think these toys are just selling out because The Dark Knight is a popular movie or is it down to Heath Ledger’s tragic circumstances?