In a bold move that’s shaking up the fast-food ad game, McDonald’s New Zealand has dropped a brand-new campaign featuring Michael Jackson’s iconic track Bad. The campaign has exploded on social media, racking up over 7 million views and 1.3 million likes in just two days.
The fresh spot pairs the King of Pop’s unmistakable sound with McDonald’s high-energy visuals, showing that even a burger giant can ride the wave of pop-culture nostalgia. With “Bad” as the soundtrack, the campaign leans into bold, confident vibes, a clever twist for a brand known for its familiar comfort.
Even more impressive: the numbers. To hit 7 million views and 1.3 million likes within 48 hours indicates this isn’t just another ad, it’s going viral. The move seems calibrated to spark conversation, stir fan excitement, and leverage Jackson’s enduring global appeal.
It’s a smart play: Michael Jackson’s “Bad” is more than a hit single, it’s a cultural moment. Released in 1987 and reaching No. 1 in multiple markets, the song has long been recognised as one of his most memorable works. By using that track, McDonald’s taps into punchy, recognisable energy and layers it into a modern marketing moment.
It is unusual for The Estate to license Michael’s music like this but maybe with the popularity of the Biopic trailer and the upcoming movie, the Estate is maybe more flexible on Michael Jackson music licensing.
If you’re wondering what this means for fans and the brand:
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For Michael Jackson fans: It’s another fresh spotlight on his legacy.
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For McDonald’s NZ: A strong boost in visibility, conversation, and likely engagement.
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For the ad-world: A reminder that classic music + bold branding = impact.
In short: McDonald’s New Zealand has leveraged one of pop history’s most iconic tracks to craft an ad that’s already making waves 7 million + views and 1.3 million + likes in only two days.
Watch:
We know Michael would not have approved this. He doesn’t even eat junk food much less would want his fans to think he endorses it. Seems the best thing the Estate can do at this point is fire Branca.
To be fair, he had the biggest brand deals with Pepsi in history, which is arguably even worse for your health…
seems like someone never heard of many stories and memories of MJ centered around junk food…
LOL, 7 million views in two days? McDonald’s NZ just hit the *Bad* jackpot! Who knew serving fast food and nostalgia could be such a viral combo? It’s like they took Jackson’s iconic energy and slapped it on a Big Mac. *Bad* move for competitors, *good* move for McJackson! 🍔🎶 #CulturalMomentOrJustAReallyGoodBurgerAd #ViralFeast