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Kentucky Fried Chicken blends past and present with its pop culture connection

By Cristine Struble

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 04: A view of the KFC exterior at the KFC and Jack Harlow Restaurant Takeover on June 04, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for KFC)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 04: A view of the KFC exterior at the KFC and Jack Harlow Restaurant Takeover on June 04, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for KFC) /
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When that fried chicken craving hits, many people crave one and only option, Kentucky Fried Chicken. Although grandma might have her perfected secret seasoning, that classic kitchen might be too far of a drive. Instead, many people have turned to those 11 secret herbs and spices that always seem to satisfy. But, in the world influenced by pop culture, KFC appreciates what happens beyond the table is as important as what is served on the table.

Recently, KFC partnered with Jack Harlow on a special meal. In addition, a capsule collection was launched in support of that partnership. Although the Colonel has, and will always be, the face of KFC, the nod to the brand’s Kentucky roots while still embracing a current trend has a wide appeal.

Although grandma might not appreciate the First Class connection, the reality is that this celebrity partnership might be more influential than the plant-based chicken launch. Adding some life to a traditional brand, turns that bucket of fried chicken into a more than just Friday night dinner. It becomes a conversation.

The same can be said about the KFC Finger Spork. While some people might have passed on the finger licking good sentiment from years ago, the curious utensil created another conversation. Although not as controversial as the dreaded double dipping, this KFC Finger Spork might be the way to eat better.

Granted, there was plenty of humor in the launch of the unique utensil, it was a curious way to get people talking about the Kentucky Fried Chicken sides. Sure, people think about who gets the big piece of chicken in a bucket but now eating sides is just as engaging. Switching the conversation can add a whole new flavor to that classic meal.

Looking ahead, it will be curious to see where Kentucky Fried Chicken evolves the conversation. Beyond the celebrity colonels, special meals and even unique utensils, what could be next for the fried chicken favorite. It might be time to put on the 11 herbs and spices fried chicken yule log, get cozy under a blanket and have some seasoned dreams. Another round of tastiness should be filling the bucket soon.