McDonald's introduced Grimace in 1971 as a purple, rounded character.
Grimace first appeared in McDonald's advertising during the early 1970s. His original concept was different from the friendly, simple character later familiar to audiences: early advertisements presented him with multiple arms and a role connected to milkshakes. The design was subsequently simplified.
The revised Grimace became one of McDonaldland's best-known figures, alongside Ronald McDonald, the Hamburglar, and Mayor McCheese. His large purple shape made him visually distinctive in television commercials, toys, and promotional materials.
People sometimes remember Grimace as having always had his modern appearance, but the character changed during his history. The 1971 introduction date refers to the beginning of his use in McDonald's branding, not necessarily the final version of his design.