Mcdonald's brings back McNugget Buddies in new adult Happy Meal collab

McDonald’s is bringing back a nostalgic Happy Meal collectable that has not been seen for more than 25 years.

The McNugget Buddies, collectable toys found in Happy Meals, will make their return to McDonald's restaurants across the US on December 11. First introduced in 1988, the toys were incredibly popular but they were discontinued in 1996, to the disappointment of many.

From next week, however, the collectables will make their long-awaited return. Anyone who orders a Kerwin Frost Box will choose between 10-piece McNuggets or a Big Mac and will receive fries, a drink and of course, one McNugget Buddy.

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New York-based artist Kerwin Frost has collaborated with the fast-food giant to create six new McNugget Buddies, each with their own special outfits and backstories. The six new toys are based on Frost’s experiences growing up in New York City, including one that is designed to look like him.

According to McDonald's, each box will come with one of the new McNugget Buddy collectables, including Frost, Don Bernice, Uptown Moe, Waffutu, BRRRRick or Darla. Merchandise from McDonald's and Kerwin Frost is also available, while supplies last.

“I’ve loved McDonald’s since I was a kid. I even had my own Ronald McDonald doll that I brought to picture day at school, and it was my dream to collect all the McNugget Buddies,” said Frost. “Now, coming up with my own special set of Buddies – each one representing different aspects of self-expression – it's unreal, a dream come true.

"McDonald’s has been a great partner from day one, and they’ve truly allowed me to create without limits. I hope the Kerwin Frost Box will serve as a reminder for people to hone their creativity and not be afraid to show the world who they really are.”

Following the announcement, a number of people took to social media to share their delight at the news. One said: "WHAT?! McDonalds returned the McNugget Buddies?!? I need them!!!" Another said: "Wow, @McDonalds is really doing it. The return of the McNugget Buddies, including one who is dressed like a Sunday Morning Mr. Freeze. I'm in."

A third said: "1. The last ones never came to Canada 2. I'm an adult 3. I love Happy Meals 4. They come with fricken McNugget buddies!!! I'm very excited for this." A fourth added: "Why does this look so cool! McNugget buddies! I'll be in line on the 11th!"

The six McNugget Buddies

McDonald's has helpfully revealed in advance everything we need to know about the new McNugget Buddies collectables:

• Kerwin Frost – The Mayor of Frost Way is a true champion of the Buddies and encourages them to be themselves. In his free time, catch him adding art to his collection or fixing things around the neighbourhood.

• Don Bernice – The Wise Stylist, an experienced fashion designer who creates all the outfits for the Buddies in Frost Way, while also offering stern advice (that’s always nice!). After all, she is “don” – the very best.

• Uptown Moe – The Neighborhood Hero, the no-nonsense, street-smart, supportive guy from around the block in Frost Way everyone knows and loves. He also gives the best motivational speeches on a whim.

• Waffutu – The Curious Optimist, who grew up in Frost Way and was raised by the whole neighborhood. She spreads positivity wherever she goes and can turn any frown upside down with the wave of a wand and tilt of a crown.

• BRRRICK – The Cool Guy, the most adventurous Buddy in Frost Way who speaks in puns, loves trying new things and techno music. He’s lowkey nervous, but always cool under pressure.

• Darla – The Dreamer, a soft-spoken yet peacefully confident singer who moved to Frost Way to pursue her dream of becoming a superstar as the lead singer of “The Frostettos.” When she’s not on stage, she’s running the local McDonald’s in Frost Way – where she’s employee of the month every month.