PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A hay-made, green-painted Phillies Phanatic lookalike outside a South Philadelphia grocery store has become the subject of plenty of conversation online, and not everyone is impressed with the fall display.
The 5-foot-7 figure, dubbed the “Philly Fauxnatic” on social media, is meant to pay tribute to the Phillies and the team’s playoff run.
But his unusual proportions, googly eyes and hay construction have left shoppers at Sprouts divided.
“It’s fun. It’s creative. Somebody had a good time with it,” said Crystal Engel of South Philadelphia.
Others were less enthusiastic.
“I think he needs a redo at the spa,” one shopper said.
Another shopper, Miyhana Smallwood of Wilmington, Delaware, said she thought the display “could be a little better.”
Still, some shoppers said the quirky design is part of its charm.
“How could you not love him? I know he’s a little off, but I think his proportions being crazy make him so much better,” one shopper said.
The Fauxnatic also took a beating from the weather last weekend.
The nor’easter blew off his hat and one of his arms before eventually knocking the entire figure off its base. He is now propped up against the store’s front doors, with both arms sitting in a pile at his feet.
“It was the poor wind that took him down in such a bad way,” said Silas McBride of North Philadelphia.
McBride said someone later tried to help repair the figure but ended up removing the other arm.
Despite the damage, shoppers said they appreciated the attempt to bring some Philadelphia spirit to the display.
“I will say I think that at least they try to give some Philly spirit,” Smallwood said. “Go Phillies and go Sprouts.”
The figure was not created by Sprouts. It was designed by Four Seasons Produce, the store’s produce supplier.
Action News reached out to Four Seasons Produce for comment but had not received a response.
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