by Mars introduced its first new M&M character in more than a decade. The new purple “spokescandy” is a peanut M&M designed to represent acceptance and inclusion, the brand’s parent company Mars said in a press release.
Purple joins the company’s other characters, Red, Yellow, Green, Brown, Orange and Blue, who recently got an updated look and new personalities earlier this year.
The character’s “charm and quirky nature” come from her “intense self-awareness, authenticity and confidence,” Mars said.
When Mars redesigned the M&M characters In January, Green’s transformation stood out – she no longer sported her signature white go-go heeled boots, but instead “cool, relaxed sneakers that reflect her effortless confidence.”
The change came after Aris was criticized for her sexy portrayal of Green and said she would now represent “confidence and empowerment, as a strong woman and known for much more than her boots.”
The company also changed the background to Green and Brown, the two female M&Ms. They now have a friendlier relationship, demonstrating a “power that supports women.”
Mars originally added purple M&Ms to the batch 20 years ago after a poll found that fans preferred purple over other possible M&M colors. according the Associated Press. Purple won 41%, beating out aqua and pink. Purple was available from August 2022 until the end of the year, but the company ultimately decided not to include it permanently.
Blue M&M’s were introduced in the same way in 1995 – but this color stuck, reports the AP.
Looks like Purple has found its way back into hearts – and candy bags. “There is so much about our new reporting that people can relate to and appreciate, including her willingness to embrace her true self – the new character reminds us to celebrate what makes us unique,” said the global Mars Wrigley vice president Jane Hwang in a statement. . “The story of our purpose is just beginning and the introduction of our newest M&M’S spokescandy is the next chapter as the brand continues to delight fans with fun in a way only M&M’S can.”
Announcing Purple, Mars released a commercial featuring the character singing an original song, “I’m Just Gonna Be Me”. The song features four real artists: saxophonist Grace Kelly, dancers and choreographers Devin Santiago and Colo Cag, and opera singer Anthony Roth Costanzo.
Mars also launched M&M’S FUNd, with a mission to increase the sense of belonging to 10 million people by 2025. One dollar from every stream of “I’m Just Gonna Be Me” will be donated to Sing for Hope, a non-profit organization that uses arts “To bring hope, connection and purpose to millions of people around the world through music,” Mars said.
Caitlin O’Kane
