What is the name of the mascot used by Wendy's?

Wendy's uses Wendy as its mascot.

The character is based on Melinda Lou “Wendy” Thomas, the daughter of company founder Dave Thomas. The restaurant chain’s name also comes from her nickname. Wendy’s logo traditionally depicts a red-haired girl with pigtails wearing a collar, linking the mascot to the founder’s family.

Dave Thomas opened the first Wendy’s restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, in 1969. The chain differentiated itself with square hamburger patties, a menu emphasizing made-to-order preparation, and the slogan “Where’s the beef?” in a famous 1980s advertising campaign.

Wendy is sometimes confused with a generic cartoon restaurant child, but the character has a specific namesake: Melinda Thomas. The logo has been redesigned over the years, while the red hair, pigtails, and name have remained central to the brand identity.