First seen supporting the Philadelphia Eagles around Super Bowl season, a man in a head-to-toe green bodysuit made himself known at Mississippi State University as he lingered through the Drill Field, reminding everyone of absurdity and laughter. While many speculate about who is behind the mask, an even bigger mystery remains: why would someone willingly dress up in an uncomfortable outfit, barely able to see the person five feet ahead, especially on a chilly day? In an interview, MSU’s Green Man revealed that the idea was inspired by “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” a sitcom where a character wears a green suit just for fun — and for no clear reason.

Rob McElhenney, the show’s creator, writer and executive producer, shared that the concept for the original Green Man came from one of his own friends. After attending an Eagles versus Cowboys game, McElhenney’s friend spontaneously slipped on a green suit in celebration of the Eagles’ victory and began taking photos with other fans. What began as a humorous gag after a football game has since evolved into something deeper and meaningful. 

The Green Man phenomenon has taken on different forms globally — from symbolizing excitement and support at different sporting events to promoting sustainability. At Mississippi State, our Green Man is the symbol of positivity. He dwells on the drill field holding up a sign with a positive message, spouting that message to the masses. 

Out of the three times Green Man has been seen on campus, his most recent appearance was on a bitter-cold Wednesday amid a stressful week of midterms. His appearances are as unpredictable as they are inspiring — even he admits they are not always planned.

Instead of waiting for sunny days filled with laughter and movement, Green Man comes on gloomy ones — hoping to lift the spirit of others who might be feeling down. Along with his mission of spreading joy, he enjoys sharing lighthearted advice. Reflecting on how he failed to be present on the drill field a day earlier due to lack of sleep, he jokes, “don’t do as Green Man does” and reminds Bulldogs to prioritize sleep. 

Green Man pointed out that despite his own mental health struggles, he yearns to spread joy.

“Life hasn’t been the best for me”, he admits, “but instead of feeling bad, I want to make other people feel happy,” Green Man said.

His spontaneous social interactions are driven by one goal: to brighten as many people’s days as he can — and every affirmation he receives motivates him to keep going.

“It’s always dark in other people’s lives, and we don’t know what battles they’re fighting,” Green Man said. “That’s a reason to act kindly.”

Despite the uncertainty of when Green Man will appear next, his message remains consistent: spread kindness, even in small ways. Passing by Green Man feels like hearing a wave of joyful “I love you, Green Man!” calls — almost as iconic as the ring of cowbells at Davis Wade. It may sound basic, but giggles from the passerby remind us of the mighty impact of small words of affirmation.

Green Man’s presence has not gone unnoticed or ignored. He says he has never received a negative reaction — only high fives, hugs and smiles. One student even offered to buy him coffee, but he politely declined, saying, “The only payment I need is your smile.” 

Above all, Green Man does this to remind people that they are loved.

“It’s going to be alright. Your sadness won’t last forever. There’s light at the end of the tunnel. Somebody is going to love you — and that person is me, Green Man. You’re going to be happy someday. You’re going to do great things,” Green Man said.

The more you listen to him, the more you realize his message is also about self-love. If a stranger in a green suit on the Drill Field can say kind things about you, you can speak kindly to yourself, too. 

Only a few people know Green Man’s true identity. Unlike Spider-Man’s high-tech suit, this green suit does not disguise his voice. But the real question is not who Green Man is — it is why he takes time out of his days to spread joy to others when he may not personally be doing the best. And in doing so, he becomes a symbol of selflessness, reminding us of the good we can bring into the world. 

Until he pops up on the Drill Field again, remember the lessons Green Man leaves behind: be kind to others, love yourself and remember that brighter days are ahead.