# Cartoon Eating Challenges A Custom Hot Ones Episode Features Donald Duck as a Guest By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2024-08-23 | Marketing Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-ones-episodes References: [youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQse2ml5UXY)  On the latest Hot Ones episodes, [YouTube](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-ones-pop-up) viewers have tuned in to watch interviews with stars like Ariana Grande, Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, and the all-new custom episode featuring Donald Duck. Daisy Duck challenged Donald Duck to get on Hot Ones and with support from Mickey Mouse, the iconic cartoon duck put himself to the test with a special curated set of Disney hot sauces over cauliflower wings. The animation for Donald Duck on this custom Hot Ones episode was done by the [Walt Disney Animation Studios](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/disney-eats-1) team, led by animator Eric Goldberg, best known for animating Genie in Disney's Aladdin. Celebrity guests aren't the only ones clamoring for a coveted spot on Hot Ones, and even cartoons are getting in on the chance to become part of the viral phenomenon. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.0/10 - Popularity: 83% | Activity: 70% | Freshness: 27% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Marketing](https://www.trendhunter.com/marketing) > [Publicity Stunts](https://www.trendhunter.com/publicitystunts) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Viral Animation Collaborations:** Animated characters from established franchises are being integrated into popular real-world series, creating unique cross-over content that captivates both fanbases. - **Nostalgic Character Resurgences:** Classic cartoon characters are making a comeback by engaging in trendy, modern-day challenges, appealing to both old and new audiences. - **Custom-branded Episodes:** Brands are creating special tailored content episodes featuring iconic characters to leverage their wide recognition for viral marketing impact. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Entertainment:** The blending of animated characters with live-action shows taps into cross-generational appeal, significantly broadening audience reach. - **Food & Beverage:** Collaborative content such as cartoon characters participating in eating challenges aligns with food brands to emerge as part of viral trends. - **Digital Media:** Leveraging well-known animated personas within digital series offers dynamic opportunities to boost viewership and engagement on streaming platforms. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Branded Short Talk Shows](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/progressives-dr-rick.md) - [Cartoon Duck-Inspired Apparel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/disney-x-karl-lagerfeld.md) - [Spicy Virtual Restaurants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-ones-pop-up.md) - [QSR Fiery Sauce Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mcdonalds-and-hot-ones.md) - [Celebrity Cooking Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/what-the-truff.md) - [Super-Spicy Nugget Sauces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mcdonalds-x-hot-ones.md) - [Spice-Driven QSR Series Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jack-in-the-box-hot-ones-menu.md) - [Talk Show Hot Sauces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-ones-hot-sauces.md) - [Spicy Collaboration QSR Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-ones-munchie-meal.md)