The “Michael” biopic may have been out for weeks now, but brands around the world are still jumping on the bandwagon and doing it without any official partnership with the movie.
After IKEA France cleverly referenced Michael Jackson last month in a viral campaign, more major companies are now joining the fun with tributes inspired by the King of Pop.
First up, McDonald’s Malaysia posted an ad featuring fries recreating Michael Jackson’s iconic toe stand pose. The caption read: “Smooth je bila dapat layan Fries Mekdi”, which roughly translates to: “Everything feels smooth when enjoying McD fries.” The post exploded online, earning more than 57,000 likes and plenty of amused reactions from fans.
Then came IHOP Mexico with a brilliantly designed pancake tower leaning like Michael Jackson in Smooth Criminal, complete with a fedora sitting on top. Their caption said: “Nada tan Smoooooth como el syrup cayendo sobre nuestra Pancake Tower”, translated in English as: “Nothing is as smooth as syrup pouring over our Pancake Tower.”
What makes all of this particularly interesting is that none of these brands are officially connected to the “Michael” movie. They are not promotional partners, and these posts are entirely independent tributes created by social media teams who clearly understand one thing: Michael Jackson still sells.
And honestly, this should not surprise anyone. Michael Jackson remains one of the most recognisable and beloved entertainers on the planet. Even decades after his peak, brands know that referencing him instantly connects with audiences across generations and cultures.
It also makes you wonder whether some companies that refused or were too nervous to officially partner with the “Michael” biopic are now regretting that decision. The public excitement is obviously there, and brands are tapping into it anyway. (Check our article on this matter: “Michael” Deserved a Merch Moment! So Where Was It?)
Nevertheless, these ads are fun, harmless tributes that once again prove how deeply Michael Jackson remains embedded in popular culture. From fries doing the toe stand to pancakes pulling a Smooth Criminal lean, the King of Pop continues to inspire creativity everywhere.
Now excuse me while I go get pancakes instead of paying ridiculous prices for smashed avocado at one of those Dan Reed-approved white middle-class “we-know-better” restaurants.
