What was the name of McDonald's original mascot?

McDonald's original mascot was Speedee.

Speedee was a chef-like character used by McDonald's in its early branding, before Ronald McDonald became the chain's best-known advertising figure. The character represented the restaurant's speedy preparation and service, reflecting the importance of quick meals in the company's early identity.

The name was linked to McDonald's original “Speedee Service System,” a production method developed by the McDonald brothers. That system simplified the menu and organized food preparation in a way that anticipated the modern fast-food model.

Speedee is often confused with Ronald McDonald because both were used as McDonald's promotional characters. Ronald appeared later, beginning in television advertising in the early 1960s, while Speedee belonged to the brand's earlier postwar period. Characters such as the Hamburglar and Mayor McCheese were later additions to the McDonaldland advertising world.