What is the name of the clown mascot for McDonald's?

The story behind the answer

The clown mascot for McDonald's is Ronald McDonald.

Ronald McDonald is a fictional clown created for McDonald's advertising and is the chain's best-known mascot. He lives in the imaginary McDonaldland universe alongside characters including the Hamburglar, Grimace, Mayor McCheese, Birdie the Early Bird, and the Fry Kids.

The character first appeared in local television commercials in Washington, D.C., in 1963. Willard Scott, who had played Bozo the Clown, portrayed the earliest version. Performer Michael Polakovs later helped develop the more recognizable costume and makeup used in national campaigns.

Ronald McDonald is often confused with the Hamburglar because both belong to McDonaldland, but they have different roles: Ronald is the friendly clown mascot, while the Hamburglar is a mischievous character associated with stealing hamburgers. The mascot has also appeared in charitable settings, including events connected with Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Aug. 2026

Add question to a list

Choose a list to keep this question in: