Frito Bandito

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The Frito Bandito was the cartoon mascot for Fritos corn chips from 1967 to 1971. The Bandito was created by the Foote, Cone & Belding Agency, and animated by Tex Avery. The character was voiced by Mel Blanc, who used an exaggerated Mexican accent not unlike another character of his - Speedy Gonzales. The Frito Bandito spoke broken English and robbed people of their Frito corn chips, referencing the "Mexican bandit" cliché often seen in western movies.

The Frito Bandito was retired in 1971, under pressure from the National Mexican-American Anti-Defamation Committee and others. He was replaced by W. C. Fritos.

The Frito Bandito campaign included a song that featured these lyrics, sung to the tune of "Cielito Lindo":

Aye, yii, yii, yiiii,
I am dee Frito Bandito.
I love Frito's Corn Chips,
I love dem I do.
I love Frito's Corn Chips,
I take dem from you.
(Especially for you.) Alt. verse used in later ads

Aye, yii, yii, yiiii,
Oh, I am the Frito Bandito.
Give me Frito Corn chips
And I'll be your friend.
The Frito Bandito
You must not offend.

Aye, yii, yii, yiiii,
I like to eat Fritos
I like to I do.
If you have some Fritos,
I'll eat them for you!

Tune written by Donald G. Pojednic

[edit] References in Pop Culture

In an episode of Aqua Teen Hunger Force, the Frito Bandito is parodied for the brand "Enchiliditos". However, instead of a Mexican person, it's a nacho chip that sings a song similar to the Frito Bandito song.