Did Grimace's luck run out? Fans joke about mascot's ‘death’ as Mets' winning streak comes to an end

Grimace, McDonald's beloved purple mascot, has sparked renewed conversation as fans joke that "Grimace is dead" following the conclusion of the New York Mets' successful run. 

The resurgence of the viral Grimace shake trend, which began in 2023, saw social media users drinking the shake and pretending to “die,” often with purple liquid smeared around their faces in comedic videos. This trend, which portrays Grimace as a supernatural or even sinister figure, added a playful and absurd element to online discussions.

In recent months, the Mets experienced a remarkable winning streak after Grimace threw the first pitch at a game in June 2024, leading some to credit the mascot for their success. However, as the team’s fortunes shifted, fans humorously speculated on social media that Grimace’s powers had faded or that he was “dead,” contributing to the team's slump. "If we can keep Grimace around and keep playing good ball then good things are gonna happen," joked Mets player Pete Alonso earlier in the season.

Despite Grimace’s growing influence in both pop culture and sports fandom, sports psychologist Dr. Jamie Barker notes that mascots often serve as a focal point for superstition, giving fans a sense of identity and hope during winning streaks. As the Mets' season progresses, fans are left wondering if Grimace can make a comeback of his own.