In the beginning, Tickle Me Elmo was conceived by inventor Ron Dubren as “Tickles the Chimp.” In 1992, the idea (and tech) was purchased by Tyco Preschool, who had a licensing play in mind.

NEW YORK (PIX11) – When Tickle Me Elmo was introduced to the U.S. in 1996, holiday madness of unprecedented proportions ensued. Dozens of shoppers and employees were injured during “Elmo mania ...

A look back at Tickle Me Elmo. Tickle Me Elmo drove kids crazy and their parents crazier. From store mobs to scalpers, here’s how WNYW covered the fad back on December 18 and 24 of 1996.

Released in 1998, Walk ‘N Talk Elmo was a popular children’s gift, as was Rock ‘N Roll Elmo (1999), Tickle Me Elmo Surprise (2001), Chicken Dance Elmo (2002), and SHOUT Elmo (2005).

Tickle Me Elmos Selling for $5,000. By ABC News. October 18, 2006, 6:38 PM. Oct. 19, 2006 — -- Looking for one of those hot, new Tickle Me Elmo 10th Anniversary Edition dolls for the holidays?

1996: The first Tickle Me Elmo laughs and shakes to become a toy wonder. 1998: Walk ‘n Talk Elmo comes with removable sneakers. 1999: Rock ‘n Roll Elmo sings and strums a guitar that lights up.

THE PLAYROOM — In 1996 a phenomenon was born. That’s when Tickle Me Elmo was unleashed on the unsuspecting free market, which was minding its own business when this interactive toy took over ...

A Tickle Me Elmo is tossed in, the soundtrack of his laugh warping to disintegration. "I was a bit on the fence about destroying that one," Hill confesses.

A look back at Tickle Me Elmo. Tickle Me Elmo drove kids crazy and their parents crazier. From store mobs to scalpers, here’s how WNYW covered the fad back on December 18 and 24 of 1996.