"We are delighted that Mr. Lithgow has accepted our invitation to serve as emcee for the toy industry's most special occasion, and we are certain that his unique blend of comedic genius and love for and support of the needs of children make him the ideal choice to serve as emcee of the T.O.T.Y. Awards," said David A. Miller, president of TMA. "In addition to his celebrated 20-year career in television, movies and on stage, Mr. Lithgow, himself a proud father of two, also recently wrote a children's book and has penned songs and recorded a new children's songs album. He is a marvelous role model for all of us in the industry and a reflection of all that we stand for in serving the needs of children"

In addition to his work on stage and screen, Mr. Lithgow addressed a completely new audience with the release of "John Lithgow's Kid-Sized Concert," a 30-minute music video of children's classics and original tunes that showcase him as an actor, singer, songwriter and co-producer. In the fall, Mr. Lithgow will add author to his list of talents. Simon & Shuster will publish his children's book, The Remarkable Farkle McBride. The book tells the tale of a child prodigy who masters every instrument he picks up, only to continually grow dissatisfied until he discovers his true love as a conductor.

Mr. Lithgow is no stranger to awards ceremonies, although he has at most times been on the receiving side of the podium. To date, the actor has won four Emmy Awards, one Golden Globe Award, an American Comedy Award and two Screen Actors Awards for his starring role in NBC's hit comedy series "3rd Rock from the Sun," in addition to two Oscar nominations (The World According to Garp and Terms of Endearment). He earned a Tony Award for his Broadway debut in The Changing Room and a Drama Desk Award for his performance in Requiem for a Heavyweight, for which he also received a Tony nomination.

About the T.O.T.Y. Awards/TMA

Conceived to honor the best toys developed by the international toy industry for U.S. consumers, the T.O.T.Y. Awards (pronounced Toh-Tee) program significantly expands the vision of the long-standing Hall of Fame program to recognize toys, as well as individuals.

The Awards will recognize the industry's creativity and innovation during the year 2000 in such categories as: Most Innovative Toy of the Year, Retailer of the Year, Friend of the Children, Best Licensed Toy of the Year, Specialty Toy of the Year, Educational Toy of the Year, Best Marketing/Advertising/Promotion Campaign of the Year, Infant/Preschool Toy of the Year, Girl Toy of the Year, Boy Toy of the Year, Game of the Year, Spring/Summer Toy of the Year.

TMA's new awards initiative will reach outside the industry, as well with the inclusion of the People's Choice Toy of the Year Award. This award will give consumers young and old the opportunity to choose their own candidate for the best toy of the year.

In addition to the awards presentation, the evening's festivities also include a silent auction benefiting the Toy Industry Foundation. The Foundation creates opportunities for companies, individuals and the industry-at-large to make a significant difference in the lives of children.

Further information and updates on the T.O.T.Y. Awards program and February 10th event can be found at the TMA� website. TMA is the national trade association for producers and importers of toys, games and entertainment products for children and families. TMA is headquartered at 1115 Broadway, NY, NY 10010.

[Posted 11/03/2000]