Tony, the mascot of Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, is what kind of animal?
Tigers, cheetahs & more: 12 advertising mascots turned cultural icons

From cereal boxes to car commercials, advertising mascots are a big part of our pop culture. These characters aren't just selling products—they’ve become household names. Whether it’s a talking gecko or a grinning doughboy, mascots help brands stick in our minds. Can you recognize these 12?
Image: Erik Mclean
Colonel Sanders
Colonel Sanders, the iconic KFC mascot, is based on Harland Sanders, the chain's founder. He received the honorary title of "Colonel" from Kentucky's governor in 1935.
Sanders embraced the persona, adopting a white suit, goatee, and bow tie, creating the famous image that still represents KFC today.
Image: Aleks Dorohovich
Energizer bunny
The Energizer Bunny debuted in 1988 as a parody of Duracell’s "Drumming Bunny." Designed with sunglasses, flip-flops, and a bigger drum, it stood out as a bold contrast to its competitor’s mascot.
The campaign grew into a long-running success and, obviously, a trademark battle followed, ultimately ending with Energizer securing exclusive rights to the pink bunny in the U.S. and Canada.
Image: Jerry Wang
GEICO gecko
The GEICO Gecko debuted in 1999 during an actors' strike, when live talent was unavailable. The idea stemmed from people mispronouncing "GEICO" as "Gecko," inspiring a quick lizard doodle during a brainstorming session.
In his first ad, the Gecko held a press conference asking people to stop confusing him with the company. The quirky concept quickly became a memorable and enduring mascot.
Image: Hunter Masters
Jolly Green Giant
The Jolly Green Giant began in 1925 with the Minnesota Valley Canning Company’s "Green Giant" peas. The original mascot was a stern, fairy tale–like figure.
In 1936, ad legend Leo Burnett redesigned him with a leafy toga and a friendly smile, making him "jolly." The company later adopted the Green Giant name, and the mascot became a lasting icon.
Image: Jun Weng
Pillsbury Doughboy
The Pillsbury Doughboy, named Poppin' Fresh, was created in 1965 by ad copywriter Rudy Perz. The idea came to him as he imagined a dough character popping out of a can in his kitchen.
First seen in stop-motion animation, the Doughboy became a cheerful brand icon, starring in over 600 commercials since his debut.
Image: Sonia Nadales
Chester Cheetah
Chester Cheetah became the face of Cheetos in 1986, replacing the original Cheetos Mouse. He debuted as a cool, animated cartoon character in TV ads.
Known for his smooth voice, catchy rhymes, and laid-back style, the character is depicted as a "cool cat" with a strong craving for Cheetos.
Image: Erik Mclean
Kool-Aid Man
The Kool-Aid Man, a smiling pitcher of Kool-Aid, evolved from earlier iterations and became the brand’s mascot after General Foods acquired the company in the 1950s. He quickly stood out in ads with his dramatic entrances.
Known for crashing through walls and shouting "Oh yeah!", this mascot became instantly recognizable.
Image: Fotografía de Alimentos
Tony the Tiger
Tony the Tiger has been the mascot for Frosted Flakes since 1952, known for his upbeat catchphrase, "They’re gr-r-reat!" and his iconic presence on cereal boxes. He has also represented other cereals, such as Tony’s Cinnamon Krunchers.
Image: Dom .
Planters
Mr. Peanut was created in 1916 by Antonio Gentile, a schoolboy who entered a design contest held by Planters. His original drawing featured a peanut with arms, legs, and a cane.
A commercial artist later refined the character by adding a top hat, monocle, and spats, transforming it into the classic Mr. Peanut mascot we know today.
Image: aboodi vesakaran
Mr. Clean
Mr. Clean was created in 1957 by an ad agency for Procter & Gamble. Originally conceived as a genie, he evolved into a muscular, bald man dressed in white, sporting an earring and folded arms. Inspired by a Navy sailor, he became a symbol of powerful cleaning.
Image: Clay Banks
Toucan Sam
Toucan Sam, the colorful blue-and-orange mascot for Froot Loops, was created in 1963. Known for his catchphrase, "Follow my nose!" and his ability to "smell" Froot Loops from afar, Sam’s voice and design have evolved over time, making him a beloved cereal icon.
Image: Zoshua Colah
Ronald McDonald
Ronald McDonald first appeared in 1963 in local TV ads in Washington, D.C., portrayed by actor Willard Scott. He was created by the Oscar Goldstein ad agency.
In 1965, McDonald's expanded Ronald’s role to national commercials with a slightly altered look. He became a key figure in McDonaldland, interacting with other characters. Over time, Ronald’s image and advertising style evolved, with updates to his outfit and overall presence.
Image: Erik Mclean