Creepy clown sightings across the U.S. have caused one famous clown to go into hiding.
Early last week, McDonald’s announced that it would cut back on Ronald McDonald’s appearances due to the ongoing “creepy clown” craze.
Since August, people have reported seeing scary clowns in dozens of cities across the country, including Florida.
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The craze has garnered widespread attention with the help of social media.
In a statement to the Associated Press, the fast food giant said, “McDonald’s and franchisees in the local markets are mindful of the current climate around clown sightings in communities and as such are being thoughtful in respect to Ronald McDonald’s participation in community events for the time being.”
The company has not said how many appearances its red-haired mascot would make.
Ronald McDonald has been a global icon for McDonald’s for decades.