Which McDonald’s mascot was introduced in 1963 as the brand’s first major human character?

Ronald McDonald was introduced in 1963 as McDonald’s first major human character.

The character was created for television advertising aimed at children and was initially portrayed by Willard Scott, who had earlier played a clown character on television. Ronald’s costume incorporated recognizable McDonald’s elements, including a paper-cup hat and a tray-like costume in his earliest appearances.

Ronald later became the central figure of McDonaldland, a fictional setting populated by characters such as Mayor McCheese and Birdie the Early Bird. His role was broader than that of product-specific mascots because he represented the restaurant brand itself.

McDonald’s introduced other characters over time, but Ronald McDonald remained the company’s principal mascot for decades and became one of the most recognizable figures in fast-food advertising.