Creator of Hot Wheels Dies at 95
Elliot Handler, The creator of Hot Wheels toy cars, has died. He was 95. He is half of the team that founded Mattel Toys in 1945. Along with his wife Ruth and Mattel co-founder Harold Matson, Handler established the multi-billion dollar company that now employs over 30,000 people.
While Elliot built Hot Wheels cars so that “boys would also have a toy of their own,” Ruth Handler is best known for bringing the Barbie lineup to life.
Elliot Handler was born in Chicago, Illinois on April 9, 1916. His wife Ruth passed away on April 27, 2002. Elliot passed away on Thursday at the age of 95.
Hot Wheels were one of the best toys growing up. Their popularity has certainly spanned generations. Thanks, Elliot.