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Dolly Parton’s influence knows no bounds. The country music legend has not only captivated audiences for decades with her iconic voice and songwriting, but she’s also proven to be a champion for fast-food cravings. Yes, you read that right. Parton played a key role in the return of Taco Bell’s beloved Mexican Pizza?
The Mexican Pizza, a double-decker masterpiece of seasoned beans, melty cheese, ground beef, and tomatoes sandwiched between crispy tortillas, was a fan favorite for years. But during the Pandemic, Taco Bell discontinued it in 2020, leaving a void in the hearts (and stomachs) of many.
Enter Dolly Parton. In an interview, Parton, a self-proclaimed Taco Bell enthusiast, declared her love for the Mexican Pizza and her desire to see it return. This simple statement, coming from a cultural icon, sparked a firestorm. And fans rallied behind Parton, using the hashtag #BringBackMexicanPizza. The movement gained momentum, catching the attention of Taco Bell itself.
And sensing a golden opportunity, Taco Bell did what any brand would do: they listened to the Queen of Country and her devoted following. In 2022, after much anticipation, Taco Bell announced the triumphant return of the Mexican Pizza, not just for a limited time, but as a permanent menu item…again.
According to a recent interview with Business Insider, Dolly was even instrumental in boosting team morale when the Mexican Pizza was selling out like hot cakes.
Taco Bell’s CMO Taylor Montgomery said: “The team members in our restaurants were fielding questions from consumers left and right. So I asked her team, ‘Do you think Dolly would record a message for our team members?”
And she did, the country star promptly recorded a message for staff to see them through the crazy times.
But the story doesn’t end there. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Taco Bell upped the ante with a one-of-a-kind marketing campaign: “Mexican Pizza: The Musical.” This satirical musical, premiering on TikTok, featured none other than Dolly Parton as the voice of the Mexican Pizza itself, alongside rapper Doja Cat. The musical hilariously chronicled the struggle of a Mexican Pizza devotee and the collective effort of fans to bring it back.
Dolly Parton’s endorsement, along with the creative marketing campaign, solidified the Mexican Pizza’s comeback. It proved that even in the world of fast food, nostalgia and a little star power can go a long way. Who do we have to thank for this monumental comeback? Dolly Parton, the unlikely Taco Bell heroine.
