Sanrio is retiring 16 characters: they’re going on a long-term “trip”

[Enter Stage Rite]

Bye bye, Kitty  16 beloved mascots are waving goodbye. The characters’ departure was announced by Sanrio Puroland, the theme park dedicated to all things Sanrio, and their online presence will vanish on March 31, 2024.

 

The Hello Kitty creator has remained tight-lipped about the specific reason on why these characters are bowing out, but it coyly states that they’re going on an “outing” or “trip.” However, a farewell video showcasing cherished moments with the departing mascots will be posted on the official Sanrio Puroland YouTube channel from March 25 to 31, allowing fans to reminisce and get their closure.

 

 

Among the icons who are joining this “trip” are Kirimichan, an adorable salmon slice; Charmmykitty, Hello Kitty’s feline companion (fun fact: Hello Kitty is not a cat); and Gyudechama, a feminine version of the lazy egg character Gudetama.

 

 

Here is the full list of characters to say sayonara to:

 

• Cappuemon
• Charmmykitty
• Chiffomaru
• Gyudechama
• Himawari
• Kirimichan
• Littleforestfellow (or Mero)
• Mentakun
• PinkyLilRose and RioSkyPeace
• Rin
• Rippu
• Rose
• Shakipiyo
• Shinagawa Monjiro
• Spica
• Sumire

 

 

 

Sources

• https://www.puroland.jp/news/20240301_character/
• https://www.8days.sg/liveandlearn/lifestyle/where-buy-sanrio-character-merch-they-are-discontinued-827311
• https://www.siliconera.com/sanrio-discontinuing-16-characters-like-kirimichan-charmmy-kitty/

 

 

 

 

Images: Sanrio and Puroland