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McDonald’s CEO’s awkward taste test sparks mocking online: ‘His aura screams kale salad’ Business leaders are increasingly placing themselves in front of the camera, in an effort to appear more relatable to a social media-first audience. When it goes well, it can be a huge hit. When it doesn’t, you risk becoming the subject of online ridicule. In the recent case of Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s CEO and president, it’s the latter. Kempczinski, who has led the company since 2019, recently attempted to promote a new menu item by conducting a live taste test of the McDonald’s Big Arch burger. The moment quickly turned into a viral spectacle of awkwardness. The burger, which is set to launch nationwide in the U.S. for a limited time starting March 3, features two quarter-pound beef patties, three slices of melted white cheddar cheese, crispy onions, and a signature Big Arch tangy sauce. During the live session, Kempczinski told the audience he would “do a tasting right now” but then admitted he was eating it for lunch. He hesitated, looking around the burger and saying, “I don’t even know how to attack it, there’s so much to it.” After taking a small bite, he showed the camera the indentation he made, prompting comments like, “That was the smallest first bite I’ve ever seen.” A Reddit user quipped, “If McDonald’s cares about its future, they need to make sure [Kempczinski] is anywhere but in front of a camera.” The incident has drawn widespread mockery online, with critics highlighting the CEO’s apparent discomfort with the product. Some have compared his reaction to that of someone who might prefer a kale salad over a burger. Kempczinski’s tenure at McDonald’s has been marked by efforts to modernize the brand, including initiatives to improve customer experience and expand digital ordering.#mcdonalds #reddit #chris_kempczinski #big_arch_burger #mcdonalds_us

McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski Struggles with New Big Arch Burger A video shared on social media last month shows McDonald’s CEO and Chairman Chris Kempczinski hesitantly trying the new “Big Arch” burger, a massive sandwich set to debut in the U.S. on Tuesday. In the clip, Kempczinski expresses his enthusiasm for the product, stating, “I love this product, it is so good. I’m going to do a tasting right now, but I’m going to eat this for my lunch, just so you know.” The burger, described as a “big burger,” includes two quarter-pound patties, Big Arch sauce, lettuce, crispy onions, and pickles. Kempczinski’s attempt to eat the oversized sandwich appears awkward, as he admits he “didn’t even know how to attack it” and hesitates before lifting the burger to his mouth. After taking a small bite, he comments, “Mmm, that is so good, that’s a big bite for a Big Arch,” then turns the burger toward the camera. The clip quickly went viral, with social media users mocking the CEO’s reluctance and questioning whether he genuinely enjoys his company’s menu items. Commenters criticized Kempczinski for treating the burger like a foreign object, with one user quipping, “This was the most unnatural thing I’ve ever seen.” Another remarked, “Why does he look like he’s scared to bite it?” Others pointed out his use of corporate jargon, such as referring to the burger as a “product,” with one commenter writing, “It Scares me when you call food ‘product.’” A popular comment read, “He def don’t eat Mcdonals [sic].” The Big Arch Burger, which gained cult following in Canada and Europe in 2024, was added to the permanent menu in the UK and Ireland. The burger contains 1,020 calories, nearly matching the total calories in a standard Big Mac Meal, including fries and a medium Coke.#social_media #mcdonalds #chris_kempczinski #big_arch_burger #calories

McDonald’s pivoted to value and won. Now it’s taking a big, beefy gamble on the Big Arch The fast food giant’s biggest-ever burger has a premium price tag in a value-driven time. Can it deliver a big bump in sales or will it be a repeat of McDonald’s most famous flop? Thirty years ago, McDonald’s released its most infamous and expensive flop, the Arch Deluxe. Marketed as a burger with a “grown-up” taste, it promised culinary transcendence through premium ingredients, years of research and testing, and the then exotic siren scent of dijonnaise sauce. To the shock of the company brass, American consumers didn’t fall over themselves to pay for something at McDonald’s that was more expensive than a Big Mac. (A $150 million advertising campaign that involved children being grossed out by the adult-themed burger probably didn’t help.) Within a few years, the sandwich unceremoniously disappeared from menu boards. Decades later, former McDonald’s Head Chef Andrew Selvaggio also shared that the Arch Deluxe was an operational nightmare for an industry built on thrift, speed, and uniformity. “It was a new burger that required a new sauce, new buns, new lettuce, seasoning.” The specter of the Arch Deluxe disaster, which has since become legendary material for MBA case studies and corporate cautionary tales, will no doubt serve as nightmare fuel for McDonald’s executives when the company releases the Big Arch on March 3.#mcdonalds #chris_kempczinski #andrew_selvaggio #big_arch #arch_deluxe

McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski went viral on social media after appearing deeply unenthusiastic about eating one of his own burgers. The CEO’s reaction to the Big Arch Burger sparked widespread attention. After introducing the product and assuring viewers he would eat it for lunch, Kempczinski opened the box and initially seemed excited, exclaiming, “Holy cow.” However, his enthusiasm quickly faded as he struggled to recall the ingredients, referring to the burger as a “product” rather than food. He took a small bite, appeared uncomfortable, and later described the experience as a “big bite for a Big Arch.” The clip, shared by Rain Drops Media, highlighted Kempczinski’s reluctance to engage with the burger. Social media users quickly picked apart the moment, with many comparing his reaction to the awkwardness of a character from The Simpsons trying a Krabby Patty for the first time. Others focused on the CEO’s choice of words, suggesting his description of the burger as a “product” rather than a meal implied it lacked nutritional value. Commentators also noted the irony of the CEO’s behavior, given that the burger was developed in McDonald’s corporate kitchens. @Nick_TopG joked that the burger was “worlds better than anything you would ever get at an actual McDonald’s,” yet Kempczinski still seemed uninterested. The most scathing critique came from @RoyalMelanite, who called the moment “the most unintentionally hilarious endorsement fail since New Coke.” Reddit users echoed the humor, with u/Carosello questioning why the company would upload the video in the first place.#mcdonalds #chris_kempczinski #big_arch_burger #rain_drops_media #the_simpsons

Internet users mocked McDonald’s CEO for his brief taste test of the Big Arch burger Social media users mocked McDonald’s CEO for his short-lived review of the Big Arch burger, questioning whether he actually took a full bite. Comments on the post included jokes about the size of his first bite, with one user quipping, “That was the smallest first bite I’ve ever seen.” Others speculated about the CEO’s ability to fully experience the burger’s flavor. Singer and actress Christina Millian offered a more positive take, calling the burger a “guilty pleasure” in a separate comment. Meanwhile, USA TODAY attempted the Big Arch burger and shared its own evaluation, with the CEO stating, “You want to be hungry when you order one of these,” during his taste test. The full review was linked at the top of the story. The Big Arch burger, a new addition to McDonald’s menu, is set to debut in U.S. restaurants this week. The product, which features a unique arch-shaped design, has generated significant online buzz. While some critics remain skeptical about its taste and value, others have embraced it as a novelty item. The burger’s release marks a bold move for the fast-food giant, aiming to attract attention with its unconventional appearance. McDonald’s has not yet released official details about the burger’s ingredients or pricing, but the company has emphasized its focus on innovation. The Big Arch’s debut comes amid increasing competition in the burger market, with rivals introducing similarly themed products. Despite the mixed reactions, the burger’s visual appeal has sparked widespread discussion, highlighting the growing role of social media in shaping consumer perceptions of new food items.#fast_food #mcdonalds #big_arch_burger #christina_millian #usa_today

Global Superstar Hilary Duff to Deliver Northeastern’s 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Address Hilary Duff, the iconic global pop star who rose to fame as the lead actress of Disney Channel’s Lizzie McGuire and later carved a successful music career in the 2000s, will deliver the keynote address at Northeastern University’s 2026 undergraduate commencement ceremony. The event will take place on April 29 at 4 p.m. at Fenway Park in Boston, marking a milestone moment for the university’s graduates. Duff, known for her versatility across music, acting, and philanthropy, has maintained a prominent presence in the entertainment industry for over two decades. Her recent musical resurgence includes the release of her album luck… or something, which debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200—her highest chart position since 2007. The album, her first studio project since 2015’s Breathe In. Breathe Out., also achieved Top 5 debuts in six international markets, including #1 in Canada and Australia. The success of the album has paved the way for her first global headline tour in nearly 20 years, The Lucky Me Tour, which spans seven countries and includes dates in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Northeastern University President Joseph E. Aoun highlighted Duff’s unique combination of entrepreneurial drive and creative innovation as the reason for her selection as commencement speaker. “Hilary Duff is an icon whose artistry spans the worlds of music, acting, and philanthropy,” Aoun said. “She has a remarkable ability to evolve, innovate, and lead across creative fields. Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to reinvention embody the kind of agility and vision Northeastern graduates possess.” Duff’s career trajectory reflects her ability to adapt and thrive in multiple industries.#hilary_duff #northeastern_university #fenway_park #joseph_e_aoun #lucky_me_tour

Hilary Duff to Appear in Boston This Spring and Summer Hilary Duff, the beloved pop culture icon, author, and businesswoman, will return to Boston this spring and summer with a series of appearances. The former Disney Channel star, best known for her role as Lizzie McGuire in the 2001–2004 series, will make her way to Massachusetts in April and August, offering fans a chance to experience her magic firsthand. Duff has been confirmed as the commencement speaker for Northeastern University’s class of 2026, set to take place at Fenway Park on April 29. The event, which combines a historic venue with a high-profile speaker, promises to be a memorable milestone for graduates. The university’s students will have the opportunity to attend the ceremony, which will be held at America’s most iconic baseball stadium. In addition to the commencement, Duff has announced her 2026 “Lucky Me” world tour, which will include a stop in New England. Fans in Massachusetts can catch her live at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield on August 8. While tickets for the tour are sold out on Duff’s official website, resale options are available at prices below $100. This gives fans a chance to secure seats without paying premium rates. The timing of Duff’s appearances aligns with her ongoing efforts to connect with fans and share her journey as a performer, writer, and mother. Her return to Boston marks another chapter in her career, blending nostalgia with new opportunities for her audience.#boston #hilary_duff #northeastern_university #fenway_park #xfinity_center

KPop Demon Hunters Meals Launch at McDonald's Next Week KPop Demon Hunters, the animated fantasy musical that has dominated global charts, screens, and playlists, is set to expand its reach with a new partnership at McDonald’s. The collaboration brings the rivalry between the demon-hunting group HUNTR/X and the rival boy band Saja Boys directly to fans through limited-time meals and exclusive experiences. The Saja Boys Breakfast Meal features a Spicy Saja McMuffin, a sausage egg McMuffin topped with a peppery Spicy Saja Sauce inspired by the fiery character Gwi-Ma. Meanwhile, the HUNTR/X Meal includes 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, Ramyeon McShaker Fries—spicy, umami-laced French fries seasoned with soy, garlic, sesame, and spice—Hunter Sauce, a sweet chili blend with garlic and pepper, and Demon Sauce, a bold purple mustard with heat and tang. Fans can unlock exclusive content and a special reveal of the winning group by scanning a QR code on Derpy cards and entering a unique code via the McDonald’s App by April 26. A Derpy McFlurry, combining creamy vanilla soft serve with berry popping pearls and a wild berry sauce, will also be available a la carte. McDonald’s Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Alyssa Buetikofer emphasized the partnership’s focus on fans, stating, “Everything we do at McDonald’s is for the fans, and no one can relate to that more than Netflix and KPop Demon Hunters. Big things happen when you bring two massive fandoms together.” Netflix’s Chief Marketing Officer Marian Lee highlighted the cultural inspiration behind the collaboration, noting, “With McDonald’s, we were able to turn the rivalry between The Saja Boys and HUNTR/X into something fans can actually experience, drawing inspiration from Korean culture and food traditions that sit at the heart of the film.#mcdonalds #netflix #kpop_demon_hunters #saja_boys #huntr_x

McDonald’s and KPop Demon Hunters Collaboration Sparks Online Excitement Rumors of a collaboration between McDonald’s and the Netflix film KPop Demon Hunters have ignited widespread excitement online, with fans and netizens expressing enthusiasm over the potential release of a themed meal and Korean-inspired menu items. The speculation centers around an upcoming “Huntr/X meal,” which could feature novelty products tied to the film’s concept. One of the most anticipated items is the “Ramyeon Shaker Fries,” a dish believed to blend Korean flavor profiles inspired by the movie’s cultural themes. While McDonald’s has not officially confirmed the collaboration, the rumors have generated significant buzz on social media. Fans have praised the idea, with one user writing, “That a great collab I can’t wait to watch it.” Another commented, “After snagging 2 Oscars including Best Original Song, HUNTR/X getting their own McDonald’s HUNTR/X meal with Rameyon Shaker Fries? Peak KPop Demon Hunters takeover.” Some users expressed optimism about the potential success of the collab, noting, “Rameyon Shaker Fries? This collab might actually go crazy if they get the flavor right.” However, not all reactions have been positive. Critics have questioned McDonald’s motives, with some accusing the fast-food giant of exploiting nostalgia and brand value for profit. One user remarked, “McDonald’s really out here weaponizing nostalgia with demon hunter fries,” while another criticized the collaboration as a “cash-grab,” stating, “Another cash-grab collab almost a year after release proves KPop Demon Hunters’ ‘cultural phenomenon’ status is mostly corporate nostalgia bait.” The animated musical fantasy film KPop Demon Hunters follows a fictional K-pop girl group called Huntr/X and has become a global phenomenon.#mcdonalds #bts #kpop_demon_hunters #huntr_x #ramyeon_shaker_fries

McDonald’s and Netflix Launch K-Pop Inspired Meals for 'KPop Demon Hunters' Film McDonald’s has unveiled two new limited-time meals inspired by the upcoming Netflix film KPop Demon Hunters, encouraging fans to choose a side in the fictional battle between supernatural forces and K-pop idols. The Saja Boys Breakfast Meal and the HUNTR/X Meal are designed to mirror the personas of the film’s characters, blending pop culture with fast food in a playful collaboration. The Saja Boys Breakfast Meal channels the charm of the fictional K-pop demon group, featuring a Spicy Saja McMuffin® that combines a Sausage McMuffin® with Egg and a peppery Spicy Saja Sauce, inspired by the fiery energy of the group’s leader, Gwi-Ma. The meal also includes crispy hash browns, described as soft on the inside like the Saja Boys’ leader Jinu, and a small soft drink to balance the heat. For fans of the rival demon group, the HUNTR/X Meal offers a unique twist with the Derpy McFlurry, a new McFlurry flavor featuring creamy vanilla soft serve mixed with berry popping pearls and a wild berry sauce. This dessert is said to reflect the irresistible charm of Derpy Tiger, a character from the film. Both meals are available for a limited time, with the release coinciding with the film’s debut on March 31. The KPop Demon Hunters film, directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, follows the secret lives of K-pop superstars HUNTR/X, who use their fame to combat supernatural threats. The story centers on their clash with a rival boy band of demons disguised as idols. The film is a Netflix original produced in partnership with Sony Pictures Animation, blending action, humor, and the global appeal of K-pop culture.#mcdonalds #netflix #kpop_demon_hunters #maggie_kang #chris_appelhans