Izzy was the official mascot of the Atlanta 1996 Summer Olympics. Named Whatizit (What is it?) at its first introduction at the close of the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, the computer animated character with the ability to morph into different forms was a departure from the Olympic tradition in that it didn’t represent a nationally-significant animal or human figure.
Izzy
In 1991, the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games (ACOG) began a search for a mascot with a competition of twenty design firms as well as suggestions from the general public. The selection, Whatizit, was designed by John Ryan, senior animation director of Atlanta-based design firm DESIGNefx. Whatizit originally appeared as a blue, tear-shaped “blob” with rings around his eyes and tail. He wore high-top sneakers and had star-shaped pupils. His arms and legs were also short with a toothy grin showing both rows of teeth. He was later modified to have longer limbs to give a more athletic look.
After a very critical reception to Whatizit’s introduction during the closing ceremonies of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, ACOG began work to reshape the character specifically focusing on children, who were far more attracted to the character than adults.
Conception and introduction at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics
His greatest change came about after he lost the bottom row of teeth and gained a nose. He was then referred to as Izzy. Also, his tongue became visible, and his limbs became longer, skinnier, and more athletic in appearance.
Izzy’s Quest for Olympic Gold
ACOG commissioned an animated television special entitled “Izzy’s Quest For Olympic Gold” to promote Izzy and expand his backstory. Produced by Film Roman, the special aired on TNT on August 12, 1995.
Video game
He was also the star of his very own video game called Izzy’s Quest for the Olympic Rings. It was released for the Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis systems.
Merchandising
Izzy became a popular collectible. There are Izzy pins, pvc figurines, coin banks and more!
www.katrinastoys.com
Katrina9799s Household Variety shop has many Izzy collectibles for sale! We have thousands of other vintage toys, dolls, bears and puppets for sale as well.
Click here to visit the Izzy page:
http://stores.ebay.com/katrina9799s-household-variety/_i.html?_nkw=izzy&submit=Search&_sid=334560272
- www.katrinastoyblog.com
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Tags: Izzy, Olympic Mascots, Olympic memoribilia, Whatizit
