Alexa Lawlor, a 28-year-old collector from Regina, has amassed an extensive array of Scooby-Doo memorabilia over the years. She has lost count of the number of items in her collection and the total amount spent on acquiring them. Lawlor’s collecting philosophy revolves around the stories behind each piece, rather than sheer quantity.
The origins of Lawlor’s collection trace back to her childhood fascination with a Scooby-Doo toy owned by her brother. The love for the iconic character grew during the late 1990s and early 2000s when Scooby-Doo merchandise flooded the market due to the release of live-action movies. Lawlor’s collection has expanded to encompass various items displayed throughout her living space, including vintage jigsaw puzzles, VHS tapes, dolls, figurines, action figures, and character reference guides used by Hanna-Barbera staff.
Lawlor’s collection revelation occurred in recent years when she finally had ample space to showcase her treasures. The assortment now occupies most of her living room, spanning eight bookshelves and extending into the kitchen and hallway. Notable pieces include a character model sheet, a Scooby-Doo storyboard, and an autographed print featuring the iconic characters signed by Hanna-Barbera founders and animators.
Lawlor’s keen eye for Scooby-Doo collectibles has led her to various sources, from online marketplaces to flea markets and garage sales. Her intuition, which she humorously dubs her “Scooby Sense,” helps her spot potential additions to her collection. Notably, she once persuaded a Calgary Stampede attendee to sell her a large stuffed Scooby-Doo toy he had just won at a fair game.
In addition to her collecting endeavors, Lawlor hosts a podcast titled “The Unmasked History of Scooby-Doo,” where she delves into the franchise’s behind-the-scenes stories. The podcast, which originated during the pandemic, allows Lawlor to combine her journalism background with her passion for Scooby-Doo. Through interviews with industry insiders, including voice actors like Frank Welker, Lawlor offers fans an insightful look into the beloved franchise’s evolution.
Lawlor attributes her enduring fascination with Scooby-Doo to the show’s relatable characters and engaging storytelling. She finds solace in the familiar formula of the show, where mysteries are unraveled, monsters are unmasked, and a sense of safety and fun prevails.