Remember the days of Blockbuster?
Popping to the famous blue and yellow haven to borrow a video for your very own at-home movie night?
There’s now only one Blockbuster store remaining in the world and in a story worthy of any film on its shelves it’s back in the headlines.
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The iconic shop sign – blue with a blockbuster ticket and a finger pointing to the store outlined in yellow – was stolen from outside the shop leaving fans distraught, reports What’s The Jam.
But, all was not lost with the power of social media acting as a force for good.
A spokesperson for the store, in Bend, near Portland, Oregon, US, said: “It’s a sad day today.
“Someone has helped themselves to our beloved Blockbuster sign from our yard.
“Sorry many great memories with this sign from the last 20 years I’ve been here. Sometimes people really suck!!
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The post went viral with fans distraught to discover the historic sign had been nicked, with many calling for action to find the culprit.
One user said: “No way. We gotta make this go viral and find the perp.”
Another user added: “Noooo!!!!
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“I was just there last month purposely to enjoy every aspect of your fabulous shrine to 80s nostalgia.
“In my hour or two there, several other folks came from all over the country to do the same thing! Imagine the loss for thousands of people now.
“Millions?! I will share!”
But it was also seen by a local business that had made the original sign.
And Carlson Sign Co recreated a new one and installed it outside the shop in a gesture of goodwill.
In an update shared by the store, they said: “We can’t begin to put into words how much we appreciate all the attention yall brought to our missing sign.
“We adore all of our fans and supporters beyond belief.
“A special thanks to Carlson Sign Co for digging deep into the archives to find the original 1999 design and gifting us this brand new sign!”
If that wasn’t enough good news, the original sign was also returned to the store with a post of the beloved sign.
It stated: “Look who made it back home!
“Couldn’t thank all of our followers and the City of Bend enough for the help and support.
“A special shout out to the Bend PD and officers Neill & Beedle for bringing her back to us.”
Social media users have rejoiced at the discovery, praising the return and slamming crooks that stole it.
“So glad it was found and returned to you!! If I’m ever in Bend, can I use my old Blockbuster card from 20+ years ago? I still have it,” commented one user.
Someone else said: “Very happy! Relic stays safe inside, the new sign is fresh outside!”
“Can’t believe someone thought they’d be able to take something so iconic and NOT be found out. Like, what are you gonna do, NOT show your friends?” quipped another user.
“Hooray WOW what a difference!” commented another happy fan.
“Really great news! So happy to hear” added another user.
Blockbuster first opened in 1985. They filed for bankruptcy in 2010, eventually closing all their premises and leaving just Bend’s store standing.
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