George Voorhis
George Bates Voorhis Jr. (August 31, 1923 – July 7, 1989) was an American performer, clown and magician who performed as the character Ronald McDonald from 1966-1988.
George Voorhis | |
|---|---|
| Born | August 31, 1923 |
| Died | July 7, 1989 (aged 65) |
| Occupation | Performer, clown, magician |
| Years active | 1966–1989 |
| Known for | Performed as Ronald McDonald |
Career
Voorhis was a professional clown, magician and was acting as "Ronald McDonald" in Southern California from the mid-1960s[1] until the mid-1980s. He made several commercials but his primary function as "Ronald McDonald" was personal appearances at openings of new McDonald's stores and newly renovated stores in and around the Southern California area.
Voorhis was a favorite clown among the other clowns and introduced the Big Mac successfully to McDonald's. One of his clown characters was called "Mr. Pockets". Voorhis had a daughter, Barbara, who along with him as "Ronald McDonald" performed at openings of new McDonald's restaurants in the greater Los Angeles area. The shows were performed on a mobile stage called "McDonaldland" which included a magic show performed by Voorhis and his daughter as the Hamburgler. He died on July 7, 1989.
References
- "Origins Of Ronald McDonald & McDonaldland". Simons Website. Archived from the original on February 25, 2012. Retrieved February 27, 2012.