McDonald’s CEO’s awkward burger taste test sparked a viral backlash, prompting rivals Burger King and Wendy’s to mock him in humorous social media videos.

In March 2026, a viral video of McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski awkwardly tasting the Big Arch burger drew online criticism for his stiff delivery and use of the word “product.” In response, rival chains Burger King and Wendy’s launched a social media campaign featuring their executives tasting flagship burgers. Burger King’s president Tom Curtis joked about needing a napkin while eating a Whopper, and Wendy’s president Pete Suerken highlighted the brand’s “fresh, never frozen” claim while preparing a Baconator. The videos, shared widely, portrayed competitors as more authentic and energetic, turning a corporate misstep into a viral marketing moment.