UPDATED, Thursday 2:51 p.m.: As it turns out, it looks like David Alan Grier won’t be assuming the role of Colonel Sanders after all.
KFC executive Kevin Hochman told the New York Daily News that there “is no new Colonel Sanders,” adding, “We are very excited to learn that Mr. Grier is such a big fan of KFC and The Colonel, We’re a big fan of him as well. We hope to continue the conversation with him over a $5 Fill Up.”
Previously…
KFC is embracing diversity with its latest choice to play beloved figurehead Colonel Sanders.
Former “In Living Color” star David Alan Grier has been tapped to portray Sanders, the actor announced via Twitter on Thursday.
“Breaking News: David Alan Grier has been cast as the first African American Colonel Sanders in the new KFC ad campaign,” Grier wrote.
In recent years, the fast-food giant has enlisted a number of comedic actors to play Sanders, including “SNL” alumni Darrell Hammond and Norm Macdonald, as well as Jim Gaffigan, who assumed the role in early February.
A spokesperson for KFC did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment.
So, just how finger-licking good will Grier be as the new Colonel Sanders? Share your predictions in the comments section.
Breaking News: David Alan Grier has been cast as the first African American Colonel Sanders in the new KFC ad campaign. #KFC
— David Alan Grier (@davidalangrier) March 3, 2016