In McDonald's branding history, what character became the chain's official mascot in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald's official mascot in 1963.

The character was created for television advertising as a clown associated with the restaurant's food and family-friendly atmosphere. Early portrayals used recognizable McDonald's imagery, including a cup-like hat and a tray, before the character developed the familiar red-haired clown appearance.

Ronald was a major shift in McDonald's branding. Speedee had represented fast service, while Ronald helped the chain communicate directly with children and families. He later appeared alongside other McDonaldland characters, including Grimace, the Hamburglar, and Mayor McCheese. A common mistake is saying Ronald was the original mascot: that role belonged to Speedee, who represented McDonald's before the clown became the dominant public character.