Alexa Lawlor, a 28-year-old resident of Regina, has amassed a vast collection of Scooby-Doo memorabilia over the years without keeping count of the number of items or the total amount spent. Unlike many collectors, Lawlor’s focus is not on quantity but on the stories and significance behind each piece in her collection. She can recall the origin and personal importance of almost every item, emphasizing the sentimental value over mere acquisition.
Lawlor’s fascination with Scooby-Doo traces back to her childhood when she first laid eyes on a Scooby-Doo toy her brother owned. This initial encounter sparked a lasting love for the franchise, especially during the late 1990s and early 2000s when Scooby-Doo merchandise flooded the market due to the release of live-action movies. As her collection grew, it gradually took over her living space, extending across multiple rooms and encompassing various vintage items like jigsaw puzzles, VHS tapes, dolls, figurines, action figures, and more.
Among the unique pieces in Lawlor’s collection are character reference guides used by Hanna-Barbera staff, a character model sheet, a Scooby-Doo storyboard, and a framed comic book ad believed to be one of the earliest promotions for the original TV show. Noteworthy autographed items include a print of a scene signed by Hanna-Barbera founders and animators, as well as the original animator of the Scooby-Doo characters.
Lawlor’s collecting adventures often involve unexpected encounters and bold requests, such as persuading a man at the Calgary Stampede to sell her a giant Scooby-Doo stuffed toy he had just won. Her keen eye for spotting Scooby-Doo items in various marketplaces and her knack for negotiation have led to many prized additions to her collection.
In addition to her collecting passion, Lawlor hosts a podcast titled “The Unmasked History of Scooby-Doo,” where she explores the franchise’s behind-the-scenes stories and interviews key figures involved in its creation. Through her podcast, Lawlor has connected with fans and industry professionals alike, including voice actors like Frank Welker, who voiced “Fred” in the original show and later Scooby-Doo.
Reflecting on the enduring appeal of Scooby-Doo, Lawlor highlights the show’s relatable characters and engaging mysteries that resonate with audiences of all ages. She finds comfort in the familiar format of each episode, where the blend of suspense and humor culminates in a reassuring resolution, making Scooby-Doo a timeless source of joy and nostalgia.