Which character became McDonald's main mascot in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald's main mascot in 1963.

The character was introduced as a clown in McDonald's advertising aimed especially at children. The first widely recognized portrayal was associated with television performer Willard Scott, who appeared as Ronald in early commercials.

Ronald's design developed over time, including changes to his costume and appearance. He became the central figure of McDonald's family-oriented advertising and was later joined by characters from the fictional McDonaldland setting.

Ronald McDonald is sometimes mistakenly treated as the company's original mascot. That distinction belongs to Speedee, the earlier character linked to the Speedee Service System. Ronald instead marked a major shift toward colorful character-based branding.