M&Ms Redesigned In Attempt To Suit 'More Progressive World' After Criticism

(Alamy/@mmschocolate/Twitter)

The M&M characters are set to be given makeovers to fit in with a 'more dynamic, progressive world,' parent company Mars has announced.

The iconic characters - anthropomorphic versions of M&M sweets - are reportedly set to have new looks unveiled that focus on their 'personalities, rather than their gender,' after one of the characters was criticised for her 'sexy' appearance.

The green M&M, depicted as a female with false eyelashes and white heeled go-go boots, will be reintroduced with 'cool, laid-back sneakers to reflect her effortless confidence,' while ads will focus on her relationship with the other female character - the brown M&M - showing them 'together throwing shine and not shade.'

M and M characters (Alamy)

Since her introduction in 1997, the green M&M has courted controversy over her apparently suggestive nature, with a press release revealing the character ahead of her debut in a Super Bowl ad describing her as 'irresistible,' adding 'it's understandable how she adds credence to the rumor that her mere presence is a turn-on.'

The green M&M has also had an up-and-down relationship with the brown M&M in the past, with the two characters portrayed as oscillating between being rivals and friends - something Mars says it wishes to change to instead show a 'force supporting women.'

Now, Mars has changed tack, with the updated green M&M 'better represented to reflect confidence and empowerment, as a strong female, and known for much more than her boots,' per CBS.

Sweets (Alamy)

Meanwhile, the orange M&M - known for its anxious personality - is being altered to 'embrace his true self, worries and all,' with Mars claiming the character will resonate with Gen-Z customers, describing them as 'the most anxious generation.'

The red M&M is also getting an update to do away with his bully tendencies, with the character instead set to be a more supportive presence for his fellow characters, as the company seeks to promote 'self-expression and power of community.'

Versions of the M&M 'spokescandies' have been used in marketing campaigns since 1954, with the first CGI versions introduced in 1994. The spokescandies have been voiced by a number of different celebrities, including JK Simmons, who has voiced the yellow M&M since since 1996, Jon Lovitz, Vanessa Williams and David Cross.

It's not clear when the new characters will officially make their debut, though it's possible they'll make an appearance in a highly coveted Super Bowl slot next month.

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Topics: Food and Drink, Super Bowl, Life, US News