It's not very often you'd get the likes of Keith Lemon, Big Narstie and footballer John Stones in the same place - but it appears McDonald's managed it as the stars of TV, music, YouTube and sport headed out to Salford for the fast-food chain's latest launch.
On Wednesday (October 12) McDonald's announced it was launching its first permanent chicken burger in 15 years - and despite a trial earlier this year, it’s not the Chicken Big Mac. The newest addition to the McDonald’s menu will be the McCrispy, which has already won over celebrities like Keith, aka Leigh Francis, and Maya Jama ahead of the launch.
The 'game-changing' burger is said to be the 'crispiest, crunchiest chicken burger', made with 100 percent chicken breast fillet, marinated in black pepper and cayenne, with a four-inch glazed bun with a sweet nutty toasted flavour.
And a bunch of famous faces got their first taste of the new menu addition during a launch event in Salford on Wednesday evening. The popular chain put on the ultimate gaming event just outside of the city centre which saw guests able to take part in a live and streamed gaming tournament hosted by gaming legends Manny and Elz The Witch.
They were also treated to the new burger before anyone else as Maccies fans will have to wait a bit longer to get their hands on it as it doesn't actually launch in stores until 11am on Wednesday, October 19 - the day after the Monopoly prize giveaway ends. But the good news is that unlike other McDonald's promotions, the McCrispy is staying on the menu for good.
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Man City's John Stone was pictured getting his first taste of the new product, cutting a casual figure in a black Burberry t-shirt and khaki green cargo pants. He was joined by fellow City footballer Cole Palmer and the pair were all smiles as they took their competitiveness off the pitch and enjoyed the gaming fun on offer.
Sticking with the football theme, Manchester City Women's and Lioness Alex Greenwood also took a night away from the pitch to sample the new product as did Manchester United Women's rival and England teammate Ella Toone.
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Also making an unexpected appearance was Keith Lemon, the comedian and Celebrity Juice star who arrived in bold fashion as he donned one of his trademark big hats and a bright yellow jacket. And Keith, who is set to star in the TV advert for the new burger, wasted no time in tucking in and was snapped with his mouth wrapped around a McCrispy.
And there were also some Love Island stars in two as 2022 islander Dami Hope, who made it to the final over the summer, posed for the cameras alongside the ITV2 dating show's 2021 star Toby Aromolaran. Olivia Attwood, who appeared on Love Island's third series in 2017, was also in attendance.
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She smiled for the cameras while donning a black hoody and a pair of oversized dark jeans which she paired with a pair of red and black trainers and a matching bright red crossbody bag. And last, but by no means least, Big Narstie was also on hand to add a bit of energy to the event as he rocked up to help McDonald's celebrate.
The McCrispy will cost £6.49 for an extra-value meal, which comes with fries and a drink. It’s the first permanent chicken burger since 2007, following a successful trial in a select few Midlands stores in March 2022, proving to be one of McDonald's most successful trials to date.
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