Silent film mostly went away with the advent of the talkies, but Hanna and Barbera’s Tom and Jerry didn’t need dialogue to enrapture generations of children. Nearly a century after Disney’s iconic “Steamboat Willie” short, the mouse will likely enter the public domain in 2024. Throughout all of Scooby-Doo’s many adaptations, this duo of man and dog remains timeless. And yet they’re the easiest to love. For the purposes of this list, we’re focusing on the OG crew who became iconic for 90s kids, these radical pizza-eating ninja-style fighters with a rat for a sensei, yet elegantly named after some of history’s greatest artists. The latter is a more emotionally intelligent character, embracing his uncle in a teary plea for forgiveness.
SpongeBob SquarePants
One of the most famous cartoon characters in history, Popeye started his fandom journey in the “Popeye the Sailor” animated series, which comprised two amazing seasons and ran from 1960 to 1962. One of the most iconic canine cartoon characters can be found in the 1995 animated featured film “Balto”. In the 1991 animated feature film “Rover Dangerfield”, the titular character gives such a fun-funny performance that he has become one of the most beloved dogs in the world of cartoons. His wit and charm have made him one of the most beloved cartoon characters of all time.
In the 2010 DreamWorks Animation film “Megamind,” directed by Tom McGrath, Baby Megamind offers a more endearing portrayal of the main character. Disney’s 1997 animated film “Hercules,” directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, features Baby Hercules, a younger and more endearing version of the legendary Greek hero. They quickly gained a following for their satirical take on various aspects of modern society, frequently addressing controversial topics from its child characters’ perspective.
Space Ghost
Originally voiced by Don Messick in the beloved Hanna-Barbera cartoons, Scooby’s blend of courage, timidity, and loyalty has charmed viewers of every age. Despite his acts, Cartman has become one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the series. His distinctive voice and catchphrases made Homer one of the favorite cartoon characters.
The most adorable and unforgettable cartoon deer (white-tailed deer, to be precise) in the world comes from the 1942 animated feature film “Bambi”. While there are plenty of outstanding characters in that series, the titular mouse stands out in his light. From outstanding teamwork to an undying passion for justice and fighting the good fight, there is so much to this series and its characters that still hold relevance today. The 1986 “Centurions” animated TV series was ahead of its time. He is such a pain in the neck of his neighbour Mr. Wilson that the title of this hit animated series carries just how this little boy is viewed by several people in his life. Yet another instantly recognizable name and character in the realm of cartoons belong to none other than 6-year-old mischief-maker extraordinaire Dennis.
As an eight-year-old girl, Lisa represents many qualities that resonate with children and adults alike, making her a beloved character in animation. Elroy, as a young cartoon character, embodies the wonder and curiosity children experience when encountering new adventures. Dora Marquez, the protagonist of the popular children’s animated series “Dora the Explorer,” holds a special place in the hearts of millions of kids worldwide. His unwavering dedication to his dream and his bond with Pikachu, his loyal companion, have made Ash a beloved figure in animation. In the enchanting realm of animation, many characters, particularly the kids, experience a timeless existence as they never grow up.
Yogi
Sometimes called “BB”, Beast Boy was once a member of Doom Patrol and comes bearing shape-shifting abilities that allow him to transform into various animals and birds. She has beautiful pink hair and green eyes which makes her character memorable. She and Robin share a romantic bond later in the series. Creative generally means destructive and dangerous but that is what he likes and makes sure his group also gets involved in his adventures. The 8-year-old girl often rides him and they go on some memorable adventures together. The show “Clifford, The Big Red Dog” follows the adventures of an uncommonly large red dog called Clifford who lives on Bridwell Island with his pet-owner Emily Elizabeth.
Danger Mouse
Bugs bunny is a Classic and famous cartoon character that Warner Brothers created for the Looney Tunes, an animated short film series. Arthur Read, the anthropomorphic aardvark, is a beloved kid cartoon character and the protagonist of the long-running children’s animated television series Arthur. Some of the most popular characters in cartoons can be found in this show, which follows the misadventures and shenanigans of a small group of under-sea creatures who become fast friends. The man himself lent his voice to the character based on him in the year-2000 animated series “Jackie Chan Adventures”, which ran for a good five seasons. Of all the popular cartoon characters in the series, its main character stands out for several reasons. The most adorable little elephant in the world, this iconic cartoon character plays the titular role in the 1941 animated feature film “Dumbo”.
The series ran for two cherished seasons and left an enduring impact on pop culture. Among these, “The New Scooby-Doo Mysteries,” which debuted in 1984, stands out as a timeless favorite loved by multiple generations. The unmistakable voice of Casey Kasem brought Shaggy to life, giving the character an instantly recognizable sound. His signature lab coat, iconic black-framed glasses, and purple gloves have become unforgettable symbols, forever cemented in fan nostalgia.
The first two seasons of The Simpsons were focused on Bart, but as it became Homer-centric, the show became something truly special. Unlucky in love, untalented and trusting to a fault—we pull for him, knowing it’s all for naught. Snoopy’s Red Baron dreams, friendship vicibet with Woodstock and crush on Lucy won the hearts of kids, whereas older audiences connected with Charlie.
Hapless Charlie Brown is as sympathetic a character as we’ve ever had, real or animated. Not every character survived the move from print to the TV screen, but Charlie Brown and his dog Snoopy absolutely came to life through a handful of TV specials and subsequent series. This titular sponge’s nautical nonsense may not be what many kids’ parents wished for, but two decades of being on the air have cemented Tom Kenny’s iconic laugh into the minds of audiences across the globe. Rebecca Sugar’s titular character grows up almost in real time, acquiring new powers and learning more about himself as the son of a human and magical gem from an alien planet. Will Arnett’s anthropomorphized, misanthropic horse has one of the most complicated, profound and deeply felt redemption arcs of any TV character in history.
- William Hanna and Mel Blanc provided the original voiceover for Tom and Jerry.
- The man himself lent his voice to the character based on him in the year-2000 animated series “Jackie Chan Adventures”, which ran for a good five seasons.
- Papa Smurf’s signature appearance has helped solidify his status as one of the most instantly recognizable cartoon characters of all time.
- When was Sylvester the cat created?
- Daffy Duck was created back in 1937 by Tex Avery and Bob Clampett at Warner Bros Cartoons.
- But, Road Runner is always a step ahead by escaping every time.
- This character first appeared in Steamboat Wille.
He can be a little stupid sometimes but that is the part of his lovable personality. He is a sweetheart who loves to eat and does not care about what others think. The character proves to be a logical quick-thinking feller who has romantic stirrings for Chel. In contrast to Tulio, Miguel is a tad dim-witted but goes the distance to save the ones he loves. While she is usually sweet and caring, and at times demure and almost ladylike, Cera also proves to be dominant and whiny. Petrie learns to fly for the first time then and becomes something of a hero.
Homer loves to eat doughnuts, play the piano, and drive a sit-down arcade racer. The show originally aired in 1989 and has been running for a jaw-dropping thirty-four seasons to date. Bart does not care about being a good boy and just wants to have fun and play pranks on his friends and family members.
Playing a young fish in the animated film “Finding Dory” (2016), Baby Dory delights and endears viewers. Although Pua is not the main character in the film, he certainly steals the audience’s hearts with his lovable appearance and heartwarming bond with Moana. Pua, the adorable pet pig from the animated movie “Moana” (2016), is undoubtedly one of the cutest cartoon babies in recent memory. As a baby character, Pebbles is known for her adorable appearance, with her bright red hair held up by a small bone. The movies follow the family’s adventures as they navigate life while concealing their superpowers from the world.
Building on the original film’s success, “Lilo & Stitch” (2002), the series actively follows the adventures of Lilo, a spirited Hawaiian girl, and her unique alien friend, Stitch. Created in 2000, “Dora the Explorer” is an educational animated show that takes viewers on exciting adventures with Dora, a seven-year-old Latina girl, her talking backpack, and her loyal monkey friend, Boots. As a cartoon character specifically designed for children, Dora embodies the spirit of adventure, curiosity, and learning that resonates with her young audience. These ever-youthful child characters have evolved into iconic figures, capturing the hearts of millions of viewers across generations. The coolest cat in cartoon history is a rabbit.
Ducky
- Naruto was voiced by Junko Takeuchi in the original Japanese version of the anime.
- His foodie aptitude has made him a favorite cartoon character.
- Peppa Pig is a British Animated television series that follows the journey of a young pig called Peppa with her family and friends.
- Dora Marquez, the protagonist of the popular children’s animated series “Dora the Explorer,” holds a special place in the hearts of millions of kids worldwide.
- Christine Cavanaugh and Candi Milo voiced Dexter.
- Among these beloved Smurfs, one in particular has always captured the spotlight.
- However, despite his foolish and naughty behavior, Woody is a lovable character who has been entertaining for over 80 years.
Felix, the Cat was created in 1919 by Pat Sullivan and Otto Messmer. Felix is an anthropomorphic black cat with big white eyes. Pink Panther doesn’t speak but instead communicates through physical humor. Who is the voice for Marvin, the Martian Character? Marvin the Martian was created in 1948 by Chuck Jones, an animator, and director at Warner Bros Animation Studio.