Ronald McDonald was introduced in 1963 by Washington, D.C., franchisee Oscar Goldstein.
The character first appeared in local television advertising created for the Washington, D.C., market. Willard Scott portrayed the early version of Ronald McDonald, whose costume used visual elements associated with McDonald's food and restaurant branding.
Ronald's national profile grew after McDonald's began using him more broadly. His bright clothing, red hair, and friendly personality were designed to appeal especially to children, helping the company build a family-oriented identity beyond its food products.
Ronald McDonald should not be confused with Speedee, the earlier mascot used in the late 1940s and 1950s. Ronald replaced that earlier branding approach and became the central figure in McDonald's children's marketing for decades.