Rather than take Teddy Ruxpin to bed with you (which is normal for a teddy bear, I believe), the intention was that he sit on your bedside table, staring at you all night and occasionally telling you a story about his escapades in a foreign land – much like your uncle.

Unlike your uncle, Ruxpin’s stories came from audio cassettes inserted into his back. His mouth and body moved in unison with the cassettes; a technology which was later used to great effect in Milli Vanilli concerts.

Teddy Ruxpin was perfect for filling the void left by an uncaring generation of parents. No longer would they have to “read stories” or “be there.” It was now possible to offload your parental duties to an animatronic teddy bear – a much more capable entity.

If only Teddy Ruxpin could spank children and send them to bed.

Luckily your uncle is there for you when it comes to that.

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