Which McDonald's character first appeared in television advertising in 1963?

Ronald McDonald first appeared in McDonald's television advertising in 1963.

The character was created as a clown mascot for children's marketing and was initially portrayed by Willard Scott, who had worked as a television weather presenter. Ronald's costume included McDonald's visual cues, including a food-themed hat and bright brand colors.

He became the central figure of the McDonaldland advertising world, appearing alongside characters such as the Hamburglar, Grimace, and Mayor McCheese. The campaign helped make McDonald's branding more recognizable to children and families.

Ronald McDonald is not the same character as Speedee, the earlier hamburger mascot. Speedee belonged to the restaurant's first branding era, while Ronald emerged during the television-focused 1960s.