No need to grimace.
McDonald’s is bringing back its beloved Shamrock Shake with the help of an old friend.
The minty green milkshake will return to restaurants on Monday, Feb. 10 — and the chain’s Uncle O’Grimacey character is returning after a decades-long hiatus to help kick off the annual “Shamrock Season.”
Uncle O’Grimacey, Grimace’s Irish uncle, might not be as popular as his purple nephew, but he plays an important role in McDonald’s Shamrock Shake history.
The St. Patrick’s Day character first debuted in 1975 — just five years after the Shamrock Shake was first introduced to the menu — as a part the company’s promotions for the seasonal menu item.
He is shaped like Grimace — a round, plump body with short legs and arms — but is all green and wears a hat, shamrock-adorned vest and walking cane.
Uncle O’Grimacey disappeared from the ads sometime in the 1980s and has been out of work ever since.
A video posted on the fast-food chain’s social media on Tuesday showed Grimace searching for his long-lost uncle via Ancestry.com — and fans were ecstatic to see the reunion.
“I can’t stop crying we did it kids,” one person wrote.
“If I don’t get to meet these two before I die kill me again,” another quipped.
But others were more skeptical, questioning Uncle O’Grimacey’s motives.
“Uncle O’Grimacey only shows up in Grimace’s life when Grimace is riding high. It’s no coincidence,” someone said.
“So you’ll bring that green nightmare back that no one asked for and not Ronald?” another questioned.
“He’s a serial user, but Grimace won’t cut him out of his life,” one commented.
Some even claimed that the character had an alleged connection to the Irish Republican Army (IRA).
Despite the rumors, McDonald’s is highlighting the importance of keeping families together.
“Inspired to reunite with Grimace and support his favorite Charity’s 50th milestone, Uncle O’Grimacey packed his bags and embarked on a journey from Sham Rock, Ireland,” McDonald’s wrote in a press release.
“Now that he’s here, Uncle O’Grimacey is traveling coast-to-coast, spreading Shamrock cheer with fans everywhere and celebrating RMHC and their mission to keep families together.”
Naturally, the return of the McDonaldland character comes with a merchandise drop, The Uncle O’Grimacey Collection, featuring shirts, a crewneck, a hat, decals and buttons.
McDonald’s will also donate 25 cents for each Shamrock Shake purchased through March 23 to Ronald McDonald House Charities.
“Our fans eagerly await the Shamrock Shake each year. We are thrilled that proceeds from this minty-flavored treat will aid RMHC in keeping families together,” Joy Silmon, second-generation McDonald’s franchisee, said in a statement.
“Family is a core value at McDonald’s, and we live this every day. Together, with our Crew, customers, and iconic McDonaldland character, Uncle O’Grimacey, we’re helping RMHC make families feel at home, even when they can’t be.”
Michael Gonda, Chief Impact Officer, North America at McDonald’s, added, “This Shamrock Shake Season, with a little extra cheer from the Grimace family, we’re reminded that the most precious gift is being close to those you love.”