Which character became McDonald's advertising mascot in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald's advertising mascot in 1963.

The character was created for television advertising and was designed as a clown associated with the restaurant's family-friendly image. Early portrayals used recognizable McDonald's items, including a paper cup and a tray, as parts of Ronald's costume.

Willard Scott, then a television personality, was the first person to portray Ronald McDonald in a notable early advertisement. The character was later redesigned and placed within a larger fictional setting known as McDonaldland, alongside figures such as the Hamburglar, Grimace, and Mayor McCheese.

Ronald's introduction helped McDonald's build a consistent identity aimed at children and families. He should not be confused with Speedee, the earlier mascot associated with the company's pre-1960s branding and its original emphasis on speed.