Some brands are so iconic that they are instantly recognisable from their mascot alone. But is it the brand name that makes them iconic or the mascot?

In today’s Absolute Best, we take a look at some mascots that may be more famous than the brand.

Go Compare Man

The Go Compare Man, real name Gio Compario, is perhaps one of the most recognisable figures in contemporary British advertising.

He first appeared in the company’s adverts in 2009 and has been gracing British ears with the familiar, if sometimes annoying, ‘Go Compare’ song ever since.

Colonel Sanders 

The only offering on this list to be based on a real person, Colonel Sanders’ name and face are recognisable worldwide, from the US, where the brand originated, to Japan, where KFC has become a Christmas staple.

The fast-food chain was founded in 1952, and has been serving up Southern-style chicken ever since.

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Mickey Mouse

Next on our list of brand mascots is Mickey Mouse.

Mickey Mouse is a cartoon character that was first created by Walt Disney in 1928. The character has since become synonymous with the Disney brand, becoming an instantly recognisable figure.

In fact, Mickey is so closely tied to the brand that it is often referred to as the House of Mouse.

Kevin the Carrot

Another British classic, Kevin the Carrot has been gracing our screens for nine years.

Usually appearing at Christmas, he has since been joined by a host of other characters, including his wife Katie and their children, Chantenay, Jasper, and Baby.

Will he make another appearance this year?

Michelin Man

The oldest mascot on this list, the Michelin Man, was created in 1898 by artist Marius Rossillon. He was adapted from a character from an advertisement for a German Brewery.

The character has changed a bit since his first deception, losing the cigar and monocle, but has retained his signature white colour.

The colour was chosen as tyres from back in the day were actually white rather than black.