On Saturday, MSNBC host Jonathan Capehart nearly lost his composure while addressing the backlash over Cracker Barrel’s newly redesigned logo.
During an episode of “Weekend,” Capehart and co-host Eugene Daniels took aim at the outrage surrounding the restaurant’s logo change, arguing that such discontent was misguided—merely another instance of some individuals playing the victim, or so they suggested.
“There are real issues people should focus on, yet the redesign seems to have ruffled feathers unnecessarily,” Capehart lamented.
The Tennessee-based chain unveiled its revamped logo last week, which spurred a wave of criticism online, primarily because it jettisoned the previous design featuring an older man leaning against a barrel. The new logo opts for a text-only appearance with a fresh typeface set against a familiar gold backdrop.
Alongside the logo update, Cracker Barrel has introduced a new menu and is adopting a cleaner, more minimalist theme. This shift has also seen certain country-themed decorations, long associated with the restaurant, disappear from its interiors.
Many voiced their anger over the design modification. Conservative commentator Benny Johnson labeled the change “absolutely scary” and questioned, “When will I learn?”
Similarly, right-wing influencer End Wokeness insisted that CEO Julie Maino should face consequences for the redesign, deeming it a crime.
In a playful jab, Steak’n Shake, a competitor, speculated that Cracker Barrel’s goal was to strip away personality, highlighting the absence of the classic “old timers” representation from the branding.
Capehart shared his thoughts on the change, expressing frustration. “Honestly, the logo is fine. Companies evolve, and I’m just weary of this reaction,” he noted.
“Is that really your stance?” Daniels replied, to which Capehart replied, “Yeah, I’m just exhausted by the outrage from these so-called snowflakes. There are so many things stirring their anger.”
Daniels added that it’s not just the Trump supporters reacting, questioning if the outrage is a ploy for attention by some groups. “People think of Cracker Barrel and often picture folks in the South who likely hold conservative views,” he remarked.
Interestingly, the redesign wasn’t solely criticized by conservatives. The official Democrat X account commented recently, indicating that the Cracker Barrel brand might suffer as a result of the change.
A Cracker Barrel representative previously told media that the core values of the company remain unchanged. “The essence and spirit of Cracker Barrel are intact. Uncle Herschel remains central to our restaurant and menu,” they reaffirmed, emphasizing a commitment to the community and comfort over the decades.
They noted that the latest version of the logo is a nod to the original design from 1969, aiming to adapt for digital platforms and roadside visibility while staying rooted in the brand’s history.
