Frito Bandito was the cartoon mascot for Fritos corn chips from 1967 to 1971. (See videos of commercials below) Frito Bandito was voiced by Mel Blanc, who was also the voice of our friend Speedy Gonzales. Like Speedy Gonzales, Frito Bandito had an exaggerated Mexican and spoke broken English. Frito Bandito was always getting into trouble because he robbed people of their Frito corn chips (which played into the “Mexican bandit” stereotype in western movies). Frito Bandito often complained that he was being pursued by the FBI – the “Frito Bureau of Investigation”.

Frito Bandito got a makeover when the National Mexican-American Anti-Defamation Committee complained of the character; his gold tooth and stubble were eliminated and his hair combed. As with other characters of questionable character, he was eventually jettisoned and was no longer seen after 1971. He was replaced by the Muncha Bunch, a group of cowboys, which then were replaced by W.C. Fritos, modeled after comedian W.C. Fields.

Search “Frito Bandito” to see relevant collectibles on ebay!