One of the most infamous stereotypical Asian Pacific American characters wasn't even really Asian. Ming the Merciless from the planet Mongo was the arch-enemy to Earth's Flash Gordon, the blonde white space hero. Even though he was an alien, one could not deny where he got his roots. His Fu Manchu like attire, his almost always slanted eyes and his name gives it away. Even Mongo is short for "Mongolia." There have been several toys made in Ming's image, from early Mego to Playmates animated. Here's what I have right now...

Ming the Merciless Flash Gordon - The Animated Series action figure line 1996, Playmates Flash Gordon - The Animated Series Individual Figure In 1996, a new animated Flash Gordon was released to introduce the famed hero to a new generation. This time, instead of Flash being your buff heroic type, he is a skateboarding teenager -- with an attitude. And, Flash isn't the only thing that has changed. Probably because sensitivities have increased around racial stereotypes, Ming the Merciless appears to be less human...and therefore, less Asian. On the package, it notes that his species is Mongonian Lizard, just to dispel any thought of it. But, still...he retains some resemblance to the original Ming...and therefore, a connection to a classic Asian stereotype. As a figure, it is actually quite nice with glowing lizard eyes removable cape. He comes with a DynaSword, Imperial TransScanner and a Rocket Rolling AirSled. The attention to the scales on his face is a nice touch. Too bad the series flopped...

Wish List for Flash Gordon The following are items I still need to complete the set. If you notice any other items that should be added, please e-mail me. Ming the Merciless (Mego, 1976) Ming the Merciless (Mattel, 1979) Ming the Merciless (Galoob, 1985) Ming the Merciless (Playing Mantis, 1999)

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