Which mascot first appeared in McDonald’s advertising in 1963?

Ronald McDonald first appeared in McDonald’s advertising in 1963.

The clown character was created as a child-oriented mascot and was initially portrayed by television personality Willard Scott, who had played a clown called Bozo on television. McDonald’s developed Ronald into the central figure of its expanding family marketing during the 1960s.

Ronald’s appearance changed over time, but his red hair, yellow clothing, striped socks, and clown makeup became strongly associated with the brand. He was later joined by other McDonaldland characters, including Grimace, the Hamburglar, and Mayor McCheese. The character’s early television role is sometimes confused with the later ensemble of mascots, but Ronald predates those additions.