For years, McDonald’s fans have wondered who — or what — the purple pal of mascot Ronald McDonald actually is. While it’s long been known that his name is Grimace, a Golden Arches insider has revealed the truth about the red-headed clown’s furry friend. Brian Bates, the manager of a McDonald’s in Windsor, Canada, claims that Grimace is “an enormous tastebud” whose purpose is to simply show that food tastes good. Bates, who was recently named Outstanding Manager of the Year for his leadership role during the coronavirus pandemic, spilt the beans to CBC News about Grimace’s identity while discussing his accolade and the experience of working at the famed burger-and-fries chain during COVID-19. But the revelation sent shockwaves through Twitter and users couldn’t help but joke at Grimace being declared a “tastebud.” “I was today years old when I found out that Grimace from the McDonald’s franchise is meant to be a human tastebud,” one fan wrote. Another added, “KIDS THIS GENERATION WILL NEVER EXPERIENCE THE FEAR OF SEEING MCDONALDS GRIMACE I HATE IT HERE!!!” One fan chimed in, “I was today years old when I found out Grimace was originally called ‘The Evil Grimace’ and was a monstrous, four-armed villain who stole (and probably ate children).” According to Mashed, Grimace indeed lost the “Evil” part of his name in 1972. “YOU GUYS! the results are in! You have decided that #GRIMACE is both a Tastebud and Purple Poop. Even score!” another exclaimed. In 2012, the McDonald’s corporate Twitter account opened the topic of Grimace’s identity. “Grimace is the embodiment of a milkshake, though others still insist he’s a tastebud,” they tweeted at the time. McDonald’s has yet to weigh in on this new chapter of the Great Grimace Debate — not even to confirm Bates’ suspicion. So who really is Grimace? You be the judge. — New York Post

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