What character became McDonald's official mascot when he was introduced in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald's official mascot when he was introduced in 1963.

The character was created for television advertising and presented as a cheerful clown associated with McDonald's restaurants. Willard Scott, then a television personality, was the first person to portray Ronald McDonald in a McDonald's commercial. The character's bright costume and clown imagery were designed to appeal especially to children and families.

Ronald McDonald later became the central figure in a larger fictional setting known as McDonaldland. Other characters, including the Hamburglar, Grimace, and Mayor McCheese, appeared in advertisements and promotional material. Ronald's identity remained distinct from those supporting characters.

The mascot's prominence changed over time as McDonald's advertising moved toward food, community, and brand-focused campaigns. Even so, Ronald McDonald remains one of the best-known mascots in fast-food branding. His introduction should not be confused with the later creation of the McDonaldland advertising world.