Grimace was introduced as an oversized purple creature in McDonaldland advertising in 1971.
The character’s earliest form was called the Evil Grimace and was portrayed as a mischievous figure associated with stealing milkshakes. McDonald’s later changed Grimace into a friendly, less threatening character who became one of the brand’s best-known mascots.
Grimace’s simple silhouette and unusual purple color made him visually distinct from Ronald McDonald and the other McDonaldland characters. His design was also easy to reproduce on signs, packaging, toys, and promotional materials.
A common mistake is assuming Grimace was always the gentle character remembered from later advertising. The original concept was more villainous, and the character’s personality was softened as McDonald’s family branding evolved.