Google Launches Jimothy Animation as Viral Seattle Raccoon Draws 1.5 Million Summons
Updated
Updated · CNET · Jul 22
Google Launches Jimothy Animation as Viral Seattle Raccoon Draws 1.5 Million Summons
3 articles · Updated · CNET · Jul 22
Summary
Google added an animated Jimothy Easter egg to search on Wednesday, letting users trigger the viral raccoon’s on-screen dash with a green paw icon.
More than 1.5 million summons were recorded by 3 p.m. PT, extending the Seattle animal’s breakout from neighborhood Instagram clips to Google search.
Jimothy, spotted in Seattle’s Ballard area, appears to have short spine syndrome; a veterinary professor told the Seattle Times the raccoon seems to be functioning well and is “very spry.”
The viral attention is already spawning merchandise and local events, including a $30 bobblehead preorder, a July 26 proclamation and art competition, and a Mariners in-stadium tribute.