The recent “mistake” by Burger King Ecuador’s Community Manager, who “accidentally” livestreamed a private party from the brand’s official account, quickly went viral and captured the attention of the public and other brands. With the guidance of BBA Ecuador, Burger King responded not with a formal apology but with a humorous and relaxed statement that read, “Even kings make mistakes.” This witty response sparked supportive and humorous reactions from other brands on social media, transforming a potential mishap into a memorable moment of connection. By addressing the situation with humor and transparency, Burger King, along with BBA Ecuador, not only managed any potential negative impact but also strengthened its bond with followers, who appreciated the brand’s authenticity.
The incident’s reach was global, with articles appearing in advertising and marketing media worldwide, making it a case study in crisis management and social media creativity, as well as the most viral advertising campaign in Ecuador’s history. Burger King saw thousands of other brands, including Spotify and Netflix, join the conversation with playful parodies of the mistake, creating a “meta moment” of interaction among brands. This episode demonstrated how a slip-up can be transformed into a powerful public relations opportunity, reaffirming that authenticity and humor are effective strategies to connect with today’s audience.
