Popeyes and Megan Thee Stallion Turn Up the Heat, Y'All

Megan Thee Stallion’s marketing mojo is pure fire these days, thanks to a Popeyes collaboration that follows the rapper’s recent fitness foray with Nike.

Her Self-Proclaimed Hotness has partnered with the chicken chain on a “Hottie Sauce” seasoned with honey, cider vinegar and Aleppo pepper, plus co-branded bikinis, shirts, sweaters, hats and other merchandise. The sauce hits restaurants next week, available for a limited time, while the merch rolls out over the coming months.

And if that’s not hot enough, Megan will moonlight as a Popeyes franchise owner, operating up to five restaurants, with locations to be determined.

Here’s a music video with a Wild West theme, animation by McFlyy and a cameo from Megan’s French bulldog 4oe. It was produced by Fela and directed by Kajal.

“I’m appreciative of Popeyes’ commitment to empowering Black women and look forward to opening Popeyes restaurants,” Megan says in press materials. “Teaming up with Popeyes is such a milestone in my journey and evolution as an entrepreneur.”

Translation: It’s haaawwwwwt!

“Megan has been a true and longtime Popeyes fan. In fact, she was one of the first celebrities to celebrate our chicken sandwich back in 2019,” CMO Bruno Cardinali tells Muse. “We want to make sure that whoever we’re partnering with has true affinity with the brand, what we stand for—and especially with our food.”

He adds: “She embodies the proud, spirited, joyful and big-hearted personality we embrace with our food and heritage.”

“Hottie Sauce” becomes Popeyes’ first celebrity-themed menu item, though such offerings are familiar fare at competitors McDonald’s and Burger King.

This deal feels like a smart move for both sides, generating significant buzz in just a few days. Megan’s ability to boost brands is fast approaching Lil Nas X proportions, fueled by sass, sensuality and playful self-awareness. Burn it up, y’all!

Megan and Popeyes will also make a six-figure donation to Houston Random Acts of Kindness. The organization empowers businesses, schools, churches and individuals to promote empathy and compassion in their communities.