Which character did McDonald’s introduce in 1963 as its primary advertising mascot?

McDonald’s introduced Ronald McDonald as its primary advertising mascot in 1963.

The character was created for television advertising to give the restaurant a friendly figure who could appeal especially to children. Early versions of Ronald’s costume included recognizable McDonald’s imagery, including a tray-like hat and a striped outfit.

Willard Scott portrayed Ronald in the earliest television advertisements. The character later became a central part of McDonald’s family-oriented branding and appeared in commercials, restaurant promotions, toys, and public events.

Ronald is often confused with McDonaldland characters such as the Hamburglar and Grimace. Those figures were introduced as part of a larger fictional advertising world, whereas Ronald McDonald served as the company’s principal mascot and spokesperson.