Grimace was designed as a purple, blob-like friend of Ronald McDonald.
The character appeared in McDonaldland advertising and became one of McDonald’s most recognizable fictional figures. Grimace’s simple shape, purple color, and friendly personality made him easy to identify in television commercials, merchandise, and restaurant promotions.
Early versions of Grimace were presented differently from the later friendly character. The design was simplified and softened as McDonald’s developed the broader McDonaldland cast for family audiences.
Grimace is sometimes confused with other McDonaldland characters because the campaign used many unusual shapes and colors. Birdie the Early Bird was yellow, while Officer Big Mac and Captain Crook had more specific product or role associations.