In McDonald's branding history, which clown became the company's chief mascot in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald's chief mascot in 1963.

The character first appeared in a television commercial in the Washington, D.C., market, where he was played by Willard Scott. McDonald's developed Ronald as a friendly, memorable figure who could connect the brand with children and family audiences. His costume included a red-and-yellow color scheme that echoed the restaurant's visual identity.

Ronald is sometimes confused with the earlier Speedee mascot. Speedee promoted the original fast-service concept, whereas Ronald belonged to a newer advertising strategy built around characters, fantasy, and McDonaldland. Other characters, including Mayor McCheese, the Hamburglar, and Grimace, joined that imaginative setting later.

Over time, Ronald became one of the most recognizable advertising mascots in the world. His public appearances and advertising role have varied by country and period, but the 1963 introduction remains the key date in McDonald's mascot history.