Which advertising character became McDonald’s official spokesman after his debut in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald’s official spokesman after his debut in 1963.

The character first appeared in a television commercial in the Washington, D.C., area. Willard Scott portrayed the early version, which was designed as a clown associated with McDonald’s food and restaurants. The character’s name combined the company name with the familiar clown identity.

Ronald McDonald later became the central human-like figure in McDonaldland advertising. His appearance changed over time, including revisions to clothing, makeup, and accessories. The character was used in commercials, restaurant promotions, charitable events, and children’s marketing.

Ronald is often confused with the older Speedee mascot or with McDonaldland characters such as the Hamburglar and Grimace. Speedee represented the earlier service system, while Ronald became the company’s most prominent spokesman during the television-advertising era.