Everyone deserves a second chance.

Bleacher Creatures are uniquely true-to-life plush figures that turn the greatest athletes and entertainment icons into characters, even friends, whom you can hang out with anytime, anywhere, according to the company’s website.

Sometimes, we can all use a little help from our friends.

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Five months after filing for bankruptcy, Bleacher Creatures, the Plymouth Meeting maker of stuffed likenesses of pro sports and entertainment personalities, has a new lease on life: new ownership, a pared product line, and a humble appreciation for the consequences and costs of trying to be too much too soon, writes Diane Mastrull for philly.com.

New York-based Pangea Brands LLC, which specializes in pop-culture toys, collectibles, and appliances — including a “Star Wars” toaster and a “Transformers” waffle-maker — announced its purchase of Bleacher Creatures on Oct. 1 to coincide with two relevant events: the Fall Toy Preview in Dallas, Texas and New York Comic Con.

Where did this cool idea come from? Bleacher Creatures Founder Matthew Hoffman is not only a sports fanatic, he’s also a father of three, the company’s website states. As Matthew traveled the country during his 15-year career in sports licensing, he was always on the lookout for new and unique sports toys for his children. Frustrated by the lack of options, inspired by the types of toys his kids enjoyed playing with, and grasping that children have a connection with their favorite pro players, the light bulb went on: Turn the athletes into plush, cuddly characters!

Though the deal will bring many changes, Bleacher Creatures founder Matthew Hoffman, 46, of Plymouth Meeting, will remain. He will be president of the new combined company, to be known as Uncanny Brands effective Jan. 1, the story continues.

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