You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone with more knowledge of the world of G.I. Joe than Dan Klingensmith.
An author and historian, Klingensmith grew up as an 80s kid with a particular affinity for Hasbo’s iconic brand of G.I. Joe action figures and beyond.
The culmination of his life’s passion can be found in his 15-volume series entitled “Creating G.I. Joe.”
It wasn’t just the action figures that drew him to G.I. Joe, citing his love for the vibrant colors and designs of toy’s packaging and marketing pieces, even going so far as to create his own eye-catching versions. All of which can be discovered, along with the history of the franchise in his series of books.
Klingensmith’s expertise, however, extends beyond the G.I. Joe universe. In 2017 he leant that expertise to the popular Netflix documentary “The Toys That Made Us.”
Away from the toy industry, Klingensmith is a staunch supporter of charitable endeavors dedicated to issues such as breast cancer, diabetes and homelessness.
The Pop Culture Hall of Fame recognizes his accomplishments and efforts and is honoring Klingensmith among its 2024 induction class among Historians.
