Applejack, Stateside.

While the UK and Europe were enjoying a revamped Applejack in a different pose from 1984, the North American release stuck to its guns and produced a second edition of Applejack in the so-called 'Shy' pose from the previous year. This version of Applejack was not identical to her predecessor, however. She was generally a lighter shade of orange, and always had curly or wavy hair, rather than the straight and silky bob style of the other release.

These curls can easily brush or wash out, so many second year Applejacks have long and slightly wavy hair rather than full scale curls.

Even in the package, the hair was not tightly curled ,but more folded around, helping to create that large wave effect. This release of Applejack continued to have freckles, although freckles on ponies was not a popular gimmick on the American release ponies, and would be seen more later in Europe.

Comparing MOC Versions: UK vs US (1985)

MOC Applejack
(UK, 1985)

The art styles on these two different cards were typical of cards released in these areas during 1985. In Europe, a mixture of these two styles was used. It is more common to find this set in the Netherlands or Belgium with the US artwork (albeit translated), while in Scandinavia, the UK style of card was used (and sold in English).

The UK card featured the name of the pony under the rainbow, while the US card had it printed on the bottom. (Image of Collector Pose Applejack on UK card donated by Rosse)

MOC Applejack
(US, 1985)

Applejack's Character: Rescue at Midnight Castle.

Applejack played a key role in the very first animated My Little Pony cartoon, Rescue at Midnight Castle. In this story, she was a clumsy but well-meaning earth pony who almost drowned and was rescued by the Sea Ponies, along with Megan. Applejack has remained an iconic character, and this animated special is a fan favourite. She never appeared in any of the later shows, however, as she was no longer on sale by the time they were in production.