What is the name of McDonald’s long-running clown mascot?

Ronald McDonald is the clown mascot created to represent McDonald’s in advertising and children’s promotions.

The character first appeared in a 1963 television commercial for the Washington, D.C., area. Actor Willard Scott played the original Ronald, whose costume used McDonald’s visual cues, including a paper-cup hat and a tray of food.

Ronald became the central figure in the company’s child-oriented branding during the 1960s and later appeared alongside characters from the fictional McDonaldland setting. His red hair, yellow clothing, and red-and-white striped details made him recognizable across markets.

The character’s design and public role changed over time, and Ronald appeared less prominently in some later campaigns. He remains one of the most recognizable mascots in fast-food advertising history.