Which McDonald's character, introduced in 1963, became the chain's signature mascot?

Ronald McDonald became McDonald's signature mascot after being introduced in 1963.

The character was created for McDonald's advertising as a friendly clown associated with the restaurant and its children-focused marketing. Willard Scott first portrayed Ronald in early television advertising, helping establish the character in the United States.

Ronald was not McDonald's first mascot: Speedee had appeared in earlier branding. The company later added characters including Grimace, the Hamburglar, and Mayor McCheese to create the fictional McDonaldland setting.

Ronald McDonald's look and role changed across decades and markets, but his central purpose remained consistent: making the brand more memorable to children and families. His name is commonly confused with the restaurant's fictional supporting characters, particularly the Hamburglar and Grimace.