Which McDonald’s character became the company’s mascot after debuting in 1963?

Ronald McDonald became the company’s mascot after debuting in 1963.

The character was created for McDonald’s television advertising during a period when the company was building a family-oriented identity. Early portrayals used a clown costume incorporating recognizable McDonald’s imagery, including a food tray worn as a hat and a cup-shaped nose.

Television performer Willard Scott was the first person to portray Ronald McDonald in a McDonald’s commercial. The character was later standardized and promoted through advertising, restaurant appearances, charity events, and the company’s children-focused branding.

Ronald McDonald is sometimes confused with Speedee, McDonald’s first mascot. Speedee represented the restaurant’s fast-service system from 1948, while Ronald became the more enduring public face of the brand from the 1960s onward.