The campaign celebrates everything fans adore about FRIENDS — humour, comfort, and togetherness — all wrapped in a collectible-driven offering that blends pop culture with fast-food favourites.
Could this BE any more iconic? McDonald’s South Africa has officially tapped into peak nostalgia with the launch of its limited-edition FRIENDS Meal, created in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP). Starting 21 January 2026, fans of the legendary television series can enjoy a curated McDonald’s meal experience inspired by the world’s most beloved group of friends.
Six Friends. One Meal. Endless Collecting.
At the heart of the campaign is the FRIENDS Meal, which allows customers to choose between McDonald’s classics such as Chicken McNuggets or a classic burger meal, paired with World Famous Fries and the star of the show: Monica’s Marinara Sauce.
This limited-time sauce is an Italian-style tomato blend made with tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs — a nod to Monica Geller’s legendary love for cooking. Whether you’re dipping nuggets or fries, McDonald’s promises flavours that couldn’t BE any more delicious.
Each FRIENDS Meal also features one of six exclusive collectible characters, inspired by the iconic cast:
Rachel
Monica
Phoebe
Ross
Chandler
Joey
Which one will you get? The only way to find out is to head to your participating local McDonald’s and start collecting the whole gang.
A Star-Studded Launch in Sandton
The campaign kicked off in style last night at McDonald’s Sandton Gate, where a host of South Africa’s most recognisable personalities gathered to celebrate the launch. Among the attendees were seasoned TikTok influencers Sipho Mkhwanazi and Philani, known for their sharp commercial skits and cultural commentary.
Also in attendance were Lifestyle Editor, Entrepreneur and Brand Specialist Alexis Tshangana, A-list actress Zola Nombona, and acclaimed musician Nelisiwe Sibiya, all adding local star power to a global pop culture moment.
FRIENDS Meal Goals
The love is truly in the meal:
World Famous Fries
Chicken McNuggets or a classic burger
Monica’s Marinara Sauce
Available at participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide, the FRIENDS Meal is designed for fans, food lovers, and collectors alike — whether you grew up watching reruns or discovered the show through streaming.
Could This BE Any More Rewarding?
Beyond the meal, fans can also take part in an easy-to-enter consumer competition, running across radio platforms and the MyM App. The competition offers even more ways to engage with the campaign, play along, and immerse yourself in the FRIENDS universe — because this launch is about more than food; it’s about shared moments and memories.
From Central Perk vibes to collectible keepsakes, McDonald’s FRIENDS Meal proves that some friendships — and some shows — never go out of style. So the only real question is: Will you get a Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler, or Joey?
