Forget Prince William and Princess Kate -- Walt Disney
OK, go ahead and chuckle. No, you didn't stumble onto some site dedicated to preteen toys or childish cartoons. The stark reality is that Disney's Princesses franchise is a big-time moneymaker, and it's imperative that the House of Mouse keeps the pipeline fed with strong characters.
The coronation ceremony will take place in London's Kensington Palace amid a media blitz reminding the world of all 10 franchise-worthy princesses and their product lines. That sprinkling of half-real fairy dust is what makes Disney unique in the entertainment industry.
DreamWorks Animation SKG
Don't take my word for it. Here's how Disney spokeswoman Mary Beech introduced her new heroine: "Once Rapunzel becomes an official member of the Disney Princess court, she will be celebrated and recognized as such across Disney, and will be included in all Disney Princess products featuring multiple characters, in addition to her own merchandise line."
Less magic and more money, honey. That's what it's all about. The Princesses franchise is important enough that toy maker Mattel
So go ahead and pooh-pooh (pun very much intended) this quasi-virtual event all you want, but Mickey Mouse is taking it to the bank. This is the stuff that dreams -- and fortunes -- are made of.
What will Disney think of next to juice the profits of its creative portfolio? Add the company to My Watchlist and you'll be the first to know.
