NECA Honors “The Golden Girls” 40th Anniversary With Adorable Collectible Toy Set

Forty years after its television debut, “The Golden Girls” continues to hold a cherished place in the hearts of viewers, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. To mark this iconic anniversary, NECA—renowned for its high-quality memorabilia—has released a deluxe collector’s set featuring exquisitely detailed 8-inch figures of the beloved quartet: Dorothy Zbornak, Sophia Petrillo, Blanche Devereaux, and Rose Nylund. The figures arrive in a unique cheesecake-themed package, a loving nod to the show’s most famous recurring motif, and are available for pre-order exclusively from the NECA Store for $100, with a release set for the first quarter of 2026 .

Premiering in 1985, “The Golden Girls” broke new ground with its candid humor and empathetic exploration of social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, HIV/AIDS, and chosen family. The sitcom’s four central characters—played by Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty—lived together in Miami, united by friendship, resilience, and unconditional support. The show has long been celebrated for its inclusive narratives and for providing rare, affirming representation at a time when queer visibility on mainstream television was limited. Episodes addressed topics such as same-sex marriage, transgender identity, and the AIDS crisis with compassion and wit, endearing the series to LGBTQ+ fans and cementing its status as a pop culture touchstone .

The NECA anniversary release is more than just a nostalgic keepsake; it is a meticulously crafted homage to the enduring spirit of “The Golden Girls.” Each figure features fabric outfits inspired by vintage toy lines and comes with signature accessories—including Sophia’s iconic purse, Blanche’s beloved Fernando the teddy bear, and, naturally, a slice of cheesecake . The exclusive cheesecake box packaging, designed for both display and preservation, includes magnetic closures and premium materials to appeal to both serious collectors and lifelong fans. The figures’ authorized likenesses ensure that every detail—from Dorothy’s steely gaze to Rose’s wide-eyed innocence—honors the original actresses and their cherished roles .

Pre-orders are open now at the NECA online store, with the set priced at $100 and a projected shipping window in the first quarter of 2026 .

The release of this collectible set coincides with a wider celebration of “The Golden Girls” 40th anniversary, including new merchandise from Disney Store such as apparel, accessories, and home décor featuring the iconic foursome . For many LGBTQ+ people, the series represents more than entertainment—it is a symbol of resilience, mutual support, and the power of chosen family. Golden Girls-themed events, drag performances, and watch parties remain fixtures at Pride celebrations and LGBTQ+ bars around the world, underscoring the show’s cross-generational appeal and lasting relevance .

NECA’s new release is accompanied by a simple but powerful message: “Thank you for being a friend.” This phrase, immortalized by the show’s theme song, speaks directly to the core values that have made “The Golden Girls” a beacon for LGBTQ+ audiences. In a world where chosen families often play a vital role for queer individuals, Dorothy, Sophia, Blanche, and Rose’s unwavering support for one another continues to resonate. The collectible set is both a tribute and an invitation—to celebrate the power of friendship, to cherish diversity, and to honor a sitcom that, four decades on, remains as vital and affirming as ever .

As NECA and other brands commemorate the 40th anniversary of “The Golden Girls,” fans—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community—are reminded of the enduring importance of representation, inclusion, and friendship in pop culture. Whether displayed proudly on a shelf or exchanged among friends, these new figurines offer more than nostalgia; they are symbols of gratitude, resilience, and the promise that, in the words of the theme song, “your heart is true, you’re a pal and a confidant.”