Grimace is the giant purple McDonald’s character known for an appetite for milkshakes.
McDonald’s introduced Grimace in 1971 as part of the McDonaldland group of characters. Early versions of the character were associated with stealing milkshakes, but the role was later softened into the friendly, simple-minded companion familiar from later advertising.
His large purple shape and limited facial features made him visually distinct from Ronald McDonald, the Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese, and Birdie. Grimace became one of the most recognizable parts of McDonald’s character branding, especially in advertisements aimed at children and families.
A common mix-up is assuming that Grimace was always portrayed exactly as he is today. His character design and personality changed over time, while the milkshake association remained a recurring part of his identity. The character’s name is simply “Grimace,” not “Grimace the Purple Monster.”