Michael Jackson Collectible Figures Unveiled

Issued by Citigate Dewe Rogerson Ltd, Birmingham

Date: Thursday, 15 July 2010

The Character Group plc

("Character Group" or "Character")

Michael Jackson Collectible Figures Unveiled

Earlier this year (26 January 2010), The Character Group announced that its principal trading subsidiary Character Options Limited had unveiled plans to distribute a collection of official Michael Jackson Dolls.

After much anticipation, the first images and product details of the upcoming official collectible Michael Jackson figures have been unveiled by Playmates Toys who earlier this year signed a deal with Bravado, the world's leading global music merchandising company, to create collectibles based on the legendary "King of Pop". The figures, which are to be distributed by Character Options in the UK, will be launched in autumn from both retailers and collector's websites.

Michael's incomparable style comes to life with these unique new 10" scale collectibles, which capture his likeness and the incredible fashions which have become legendary. The first 10" style will be Billie Jean which captures the bold and flashy outfit worn in the short film. The second 10" collectible is Thriller featuring the iconic red with black trim outfit from the most famous short film of all time. These two styles will launch in 2010 followed by additional styles shortly after.

Speaking of the unveiling Jon Diver, Joint Managing Director of The Character Group plc, commented: "We are privileged to be working with Playmates Toys on this project and are delighted that we can finally reveal the first two Michael Jackson Figures that will be released for sale. Since first reporting our agreement during London Toy Fair in January we have been inundated with requests for further details. Now that the first images and product details have been released, we are amazed at the likeness to the legend that was Michael Jackson. We have no doubt that they will become treasured collector's pieces for any fan."

Tom Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Bravado further stated: "We are delighted to expand our successful line of Michael Jackson collectible memorabilia by working with the innovative team at Playmates Toys. This new line truly celebrates Michael's unmistakable style and irreplaceable talent. Bringing in Playmates as a licensee only further cements Michael's retail visibility and helps commemorate and preserve the legacy that is Michael Jackson."

Richard King, Chairman, The Character Group added: "It is remarkable how the legend of Michael Jackson lives on. I expect the range of Michael Jackson dolls to reflect this continued interest. Once the full range is launched, we expect to see sales mainly reflected in the Group's 2011 financial year."