McDonald’s introduced Ronald McDonald as a major advertising mascot in 1963.
The character was created to appeal especially to children and families, helping McDonald’s distinguish itself in a growing fast-food market. Early versions of Ronald’s costume included visual references to McDonald’s products, including a tray-like hat and a cup-shaped outfit.
Television performer Willard Scott played the original Ronald McDonald in early advertising. The character was later standardized and developed into the central figure of the McDonaldland advertising world, alongside characters such as Grimace and the Hamburglar.
Ronald’s 1963 debut came after Speedee had served as an earlier McDonald’s mascot. The two characters therefore belong to different stages of the brand’s history: Speedee represented operational speed, while Ronald represented a family-oriented advertising universe.