STAR TREK The POP-EXPOSE 

From Alien Worlds to Animated Icons: The Sci-Fi Legacy of Michael Ansara

Michael Ansara’s unmistakable voice and commanding screen presence earned him legendary status across decades of film and television. Known to many fans for his work in science fiction and animation, Ansara built a career that effortlessly spanned genres — from Westerns to fantasy to some of the most beloved sci-fi series of all time. Born in Syria in 1922 and raised in the United States, Ansara originally studied to become a doctor, but after taking acting classes to overcome shyness, he discovered a passion that would shape the next five…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Born to Roll: The Fast-Paced Origins of Hot Wheels

Since roaring onto the toy scene in 1968, Hot Wheels has been synonymous with speed, style, and imagination. Generations of kids — and adults — have raced, collected, and customized these die-cast wonders. But how did these iconic cars get their start? The origin of Hot Wheels is as colorful and cool as the cars themselves, complete with innovation, rivalry, and a drive to push the limits of what a toy car could be. The Spark Behind the Wheels Hot Wheels was born out of Mattel, the toy giant co-founded…

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G.I.Joe 

Before the Battle: How G.I. Joe Went Small and Won Big in ’82

Story By Mitchell Smith Welcome to the Outpost. Today I’m dialing it back to 1981. As any G.I. Joe fan would know the once successful 12 inch Joe line had fizzled out and Hasbro had few intentions of bringing it back. There were several lines such as Megos 3-3/4 Chips figures and Fisher Price’s Adventure People that kids had, including myself, to create many adventures. If you have watched the series “The Toys That Made Us, you know the prototype Joes were some Chips figures painted green. I so badly…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

It’s Time to Meet the Muppets: A Look Back at Jim Henson’s Legacy

Before the Muppets were a household name, they were a passion project born from the imagination of a young puppeteer named Jim Henson. With a knack for innovation and an eye for heartfelt humor, Henson would go on to create one of the most beloved puppet ensembles in entertainment history — and it all started long before corporate giants got involved. Humble Beginnings Jim Henson’s journey began in the mid-1950s when he created “Sam and Friends,” a short puppet show for a local Washington, D.C. television station. It was here…

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Realm of Eternia - Masters of the Universe 

Brace for the Storm! Hurricane Hordak Hits MattelCreations April 23rd!

MattelCreations has unveiled the next epic release in their Masters of the Universe Origins line — Hurricane Hordak! The evil leader returns in storm-spinning style and is set to drop on April 23rd at Noon Eastern, retailing for $25 USD. As an added bonus for die-hard fans, Club Grayskull members get early access to the figure. If you’re not a member, don’t worry — the public release opens up on April 24th. Make sure you’ve got your thunder ready — Hurricane Hordak is blowing in fast, and collectors won’t want…

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The Breaking News Report 

Suit Up! ToyKennections Dives Into the Epic History of Exo-Squad!

Today Ken from ToyKennections gives us a look at the History of Exo-Squad! Check out the video below and share your thoughts with us in the comments. As always be sure to subscribe to ToyKennections channel on YouTube for all of Ken’s latest videos!

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The POP-EXPOSE 

The Voice That Drove Country: The Life and Legacy of George Jones

Story by Mitchell Smith George Glenn Jones was born on September 12, 1931, in Saratoga, Texas. Raised in poverty and surrounded by music, Jones grew up listening to gospel and country records, learning guitar by age nine. By the time he was a teenager, he was singing on the streets of Beaumont, Texas, and performing on local radio shows. His big break came in the mid-1950s when his single “Why Baby Why” became a hit. Jones quickly became known for his emotionally charged vocals and honky-tonk style. He joined the…

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The Breaking News Report 

Toon In, Bliss Out: How ‘Toon In With Me’ Became the Cartoon Revival We All Needed

In an age dominated by streaming giants, gritty reboots, and rapid-fire content, one humble morning show has captured the hearts of kids, parents, and cartoon-loving grown-ups alike: Toon In With Me. Airing weekdays on MeTV, this joyful burst of animated nostalgia has become a fan favorite, blending classic cartoons with smart, family-friendly comedy and a whole lot of heart. The show premiered in January 2021, serving up a mix of timeless cartoons like Looney Tunes, Tom and Jerry, Popeye, Betty Boop, and Tex Avery shorts. But it wasn’t just the…

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The Breaking News Report 

“Plastic Panic: When Action Figure Collecting Starts Collecting You”

Action figure collecting is a thrilling and nostalgic hobby for many, especially in passionate communities like G.I. Joe collectors. The hunt for rare figures, the joy of a complete shelf display, and the excitement of scoring a grail piece can provide a strong sense of satisfaction. But for some, the hobby can take a darker turn—where collecting becomes an obsession, financial strain builds up, and bitterness toward fellow collectors festers. When collecting crosses the line from fun to unhealthy, the signs are often subtle at first. You might find yourself…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Back to the Tube: Why Gen X is Bingeing the Past, Not the Present

It’s 2025, and while streaming services are pouring billions into high-budget original content, many Gen Xers—those currently in their 40s and 50s—are more likely to be found watching Petticoat Junction, The A-Team, or Columbo than the latest prestige drama or superhero spectacle. Why are so many people turning off new shows in favor of the classics from the 1950s through the 1980s? The answer lies in a mix of nostalgia, storytelling style, and the rise of retro-friendly platforms like MeTV and MeTV Toons. For Gen X, these shows are more…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Exit, Stage Iconic! The Curious Charm of Snagglepuss

Among the colorful lineup of Hanna-Barbera characters that defined the golden era of Saturday morning cartoons, few are as memorable and delightfully theatrical as Snagglepuss. With his pink fur, arched eyebrows, and a flair for the dramatic, Snagglepuss wasn’t just another talking animal—he was a scene-stealer with a voice and style all his own. Snagglepuss first roared onto screens in 1959 as part of The Quick Draw McGraw Show before earning his own short segments. What made him stand out wasn’t just his look—it was his one-of-a-kind speech pattern and…

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G.I.Joe Half The Battle 

Ranking All G.I. Joe Figures From 1984 on Half The Battle!

On this week’s episode of G.I.Joe Half The Battle, I rank G.I. Joe 1984! Check out this week’s video below and join in the conversation. And as always be sure and subscribe to my YouTube channel for all my latest videos!

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G.I.Joe 

Revving Up Nostalgia: The 1986 Dreadnok Thunder Machine Breakdown!

Story by Mitchell Smith Welcome to the Outpost. Today I’m taking a look at the 1986 Dreadnok Thunder Machine. The Thunder Machine made its first appearance in the series “Arise Serpentor Arise”. While Zartan and the Noks held a competition for the next member to join them Monkeywrench and Thrasher made quite an impression. Of course they both made it and Thrasher brought his Thunder Machine on board. The custom hot rod assumingely built by Thrasher is an interesting vehicle. I always got a Mad Max vibe on this vehicle.…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Family Matters: The Sitcom That Brought Us Together, One “Did I Do That?” at a Time

In the golden age of ’90s television, a handful of sitcoms rose above entertainment to become true cultural touchstones. One of those was Family Matters, a show that blended humor, heart, and history-making characters in a way that brought families of all backgrounds together. Premiering in 1989 and running through 1998, Family Matters was more than just a part of ABC’s iconic TGIF lineup—it was a show that helped bridge cultural divides during a time when America needed it most. Meet the Winslows The show followed the life of a…

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The Breaking News Report 

Real American Tariffs: Higher Prices Are There!

If you’re an adult collector in 2025—whether you’re hunting down that elusive G.I. Joe Classified figure, building a wall of Marvel Legends, or completing your Masters of the Universe shelf—brace yourself. The prices are going up. And not just a little. Thanks to the newest round of U.S. tariffs on imports from China, the cost of your favorite hobby is taking a real hit. Tariffs on Chinese goods have now skyrocketed to as high as 145%, which is pushing up prices on nearly everything, including our beloved action figures (AP…

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