Being the major brand carrier and main mascot of McDonald's Corporation, Ronald McDonald has become a world icon for decades now. But for those who do not know, this red-haired clown in a yellow jumpsuit has his own set of critics saying negative things against him.
Ronald's critics wanted him to retire as an iconic mascot for good. In other words, oust him from McDonald's forever. Their reasons include Ronald promoting unhealthy eating and obesity among children. A critic even said that the poor clown lures children to "eat food that is high in fat, sodium, and calories," and that Ronald is evil and dangerous as he is believed to convey subliminal messages. In fact, there is an ongoing campaign entitled "Retire Ronald" that asks petitions to get rid of Ronald for two months now.
To oppose these negative claims, officials and shareholders of McDonald's Corporation stood firm on their decision that Ronald cannot and will not retire as their mascot. They all believe that the world-famous clown is a good influence, maintains effective communication with children and their parents, promotes balanced lifestyle, and most of all, not obese.
McDonald's assured the public that they will not remove or replace Ronald. And no one can make them do such thing.