Ronald McDonald first appeared in a 1963 television commercial for McDonald's.
The character was created to give the restaurant chain a recognizable personality that would appeal especially to children and families. The first television appearance helped establish Ronald as a central part of McDonald's public image.
Television personality Willard Scott portrayed Ronald in the earliest advertisements. Scott had previously played a clown character named Bozo on television, a connection that helped shape the early presentation of Ronald McDonald.
Ronald later became the leading figure in the McDonaldland advertising universe, appearing alongside characters such as Grimace, the Hamburglar, and Mayor McCheese. His familiar red, yellow, and white costume made him one of the most recognizable fast-food mascots.