Megan Thee Stallion is proving that “Hot Girl” energy doesn’t stop at the charts. In fact, it builds legacies. On New Year’s Eve, the Grammy-winning rapper officially opened her first-ever Popeyes franchise in Miami, transforming a viral brand partnership into a tangible, brick-and-mortar business venture in the heart of South Beach.
The grand opening marks a defining moment in Megan’s evolution from cultural icon to hands-on entrepreneur. Her relationship with Popeyes first captured pop culture’s attention in 2021 with the launch of her now-famous Hottie Sauce, a limited-edition collaboration that sparked internet-breaking fan reactions, playful mukbang moments, and record-setting engagement across social platforms. What began as a cultural moment has since matured into strategic ownership. Further highlighting Megan’s commitment to building real equity beyond entertainment.
From Viral Sauce To Franchise Ownership
The journey began when Popeyes announced a “hot” collaboration with the Grammy Award-winning musician and entrepreneur, introducing Megan Thee Stallion Hottie Sauce alongside exclusive co-branded merchandise. Launched on October 19th, 2022 the sauce debuted as a bold new flavor option for Popeyes’ iconic Chicken Sandwich and its newly introduced Nuggets. Marking the first time Popeyes released a new variation of its legendary Chicken Sandwich. The Hottie Sauce rollout extended far beyond the U.S., reaching 14 countries worldwide, cementing its global impact.
The collaboration didn’t stop at the menu. Popeyes x Megan Thee Stallion merchandise dropped as part of a limited-edition collection, beginning with “Thee Heat,” released at TheeHottieSauce.com to celebrate the sauce’s in-store debut. The campaign blended fashion, flavor, and fandom. Setting a new standard for artist-brand partnerships.
More importantly, the collaboration was rooted in purpose. As part of the partnership, Popeyes and Megan committed a six-figure donation to Houston Random Acts of Kindness, supporting the organization’s mission to promote empathy, compassion, and community care in Megan’s hometown. Even then, the groundwork was being laid for something bigger: Popeyes officially approved Megan to become a franchise owner, signaling a long-term vision beyond endorsement.
Leading From The Front
Megan first hinted at her Miami franchise earlier this year in an April 2025 TikTok, joking about balancing her roles as rapper and entrepreneur. The message was clear that this was not a celebrity cameo, but a serious business move. During the grand opening, the Houston native made it a point to personally meet every employee, insisting on learning each staff member’s name.
When questioned about the effort, her response resonated instantly with fans: “Oh, yes, I do”. The moment offered a glimpse into Megan’s leadership style serving up as present, respectful, and deeply intentional. The celebration also saw Megan greeting fans, hyping up her team, and stepping behind the counter to help serve customers. At one point, she joked with staff about stopping by regularly to see how things were running. She later shared highlights from the day on Instagram, proudly announcing her new role as a franchise owner and dubbing the location “Thee Littest Popeyes”.
Building A Brand Beyond The Music
More than a grand opening, Megan Thee Stallion’s Popeyes franchise represents a blueprint for modern celebrity entrepreneurship. Where influence becomes ownership, collaborations evolve into equity, and community impact remains at the center. From Hottie Sauce to South Beach, Megan is building something that lasts.
