Willard Scott portrayed Ronald McDonald in early McDonald’s television commercials during the 1960s.
Scott, a television personality and weather presenter, appeared as Ronald McDonald in early advertising before the character became a standardized international mascot. The commercials helped establish Ronald as a friendly clown associated with McDonald’s restaurants and children’s promotions.
Ronald’s appearance evolved over time. Early versions used food-related costume elements, including a tray-like hat and a cup around the nose, while later designs became more consistent. The character subsequently appeared in McDonaldland advertising alongside figures such as the Hamburglar, Grimace, and Mayor McCheese.
The role is sometimes confused with the character’s creation or with later performers. Scott was an early television portrayal, not the sole person who ever played Ronald McDonald. The character’s first major advertising appearances came in 1963, before McDonaldland was introduced in 1971.