Top 10 Cartoon Ensemble Casts

Top 10 Cartoon Ensemble Casts

These small screen animated characters and their relationships are anything but two-dimensional. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’re counting down our picks for the top 10 cartoonensemble casts.

For this list, we’re taking a look at western animated shows that are abundant in colorful main characters and supporting players. We’ve made these selections based on how interesting the characters themselves are and the quality of their voice actors. We’ve excluded casts that weren’t originally depicted in animation, as in “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” and casts that initially appeared in the comics and films, as in “Justice League” or “X-Men.” We’re also excluding anime.

#10: “The Venture Bros.” (2003-)

Hank and Dean Venture are a hardy duo of awkward teens straight out of a 1960s’ adventure cartoon. The real reason to watch this lovingly made Adult Swim series, though, is for the bizarre people that surround the Venture brothers. Also making up Team Venture are their brilliant, yet insecure, father, and bodyguard Brock Samson, who’s as macho as John Rambo on steroids. Throughout their journeys, the team encounters a variety of allies and enemies, most notably the flamboyant Monarch. Everyone’s given an opportunity to shine, including random henchmen who are all inspired by popular culture.

#9: “King of the Hill” (1997-2010)

Hank Hill acts as the grounded center of two families. First, there’s Hank’s immediate family, which is comprised of an overly passionate wife, ditsy niece, and pudgy son who just ain’t right. His other family consists of three neighbors with a knack for getting into crazy shenanigans: The lonely sad sack Bill, incomprehensible sex magnet Boomhauer, and paranoid conspiracy nut Dale. “King of the Hill” thus makes for a great ensemble piece about family, community, and the Texas spirit. Who wouldn’t want to have a cookout with these guys?

#8: “SpongeBob SquarePants” (1999-)

Sponges and starfish may not be charismatic presences in live action, but they spring to life in animation. SpongeBob SquarePants himself has achieved cartoon all-star status over the years. The other residents of Bikini Bottom have become just as beloved in popular culture, including SpongeBob’s relentlessly stupid best friend Patrick, land lover squirrel Sandy, aggravated neighbor Squidward, greedy boss Mr. Krabs, and diabolical arch nemesis Plankton. Together, these nautical misfits make for an A-list school, amounting to ingeniously silly comedy and sweet victory. With friends like these, who needs anemones?

#7: “South Park” (1997-)

“South Park” started off as a satirical cartoon about the misadventures of four foulmouthed grade school boys in Colorado. While Stan, Kyle, Kenny, and Cartman remain the key focus, the world of “South Park” has expanded with breakout characters like Butters, Jimmy, and Timmy. Even the adults have gotten in on the laughs, including the self-loathing Mr. Garrison and always-outrageous Randy Marsh. Although our world is constantly changing, this mountain town hasn’t gotten any less funny, smart, raunchy, or relevant due to its consistently compelling cast of chaotic characters.

#6: “Recess” (1997-2001)

Schools can be really cliquey with jocks, nerds, and pranksters forming their own separated groups. In “Recess,” however, six diverse fourth graders play together in harmony and rule the school. In addition to scene-stealing leads like smartass leader T.J. and headstrong tomboy Spinelli, the playground also contains an almighty king, savage kindergarteners, and a devious tattletale always ready to report to the antagonistic teachers. They make a simple schoolyard look like a massive kingdom comprised of its own governments, landmarks, and cultures, leading to the most epic playtime ever.

#5: “Archer” (2009-)

As dysfunctional as the cast of “Archer” may be, every character works off each other to perfection. The international spy agency formerly known as ISIS primarily employs egomaniacs like Sterling Archer, raging alcoholics like Malory Archer, pyromaniacs like Cheryl/Carol, sex addicts like Cyril, possible Hitler clones like Dr. Krieger, and flat-out deranged wrecking balls like Pam. Even the more levelheaded individuals like agent Lana Kane are susceptible to insanity. Although they often fight for peace, these people only cause more pandemonium. On that basis, they all truly belong together - for better or worse.

#4: “Futurama” (1999-2013)

“Futurama” primarily keeps its emphasis on the initial trio of lovably dim delivery boy Fry, self-centered robot Bender, and no-nonsense pilot Leela. The show is usually at its best, though, when the entire Planet Express crew is assembled together. Everyone, from mad scientist Professor Farnsworth, to the harebrained Amy Wong, to the incompetent Dr. John Zoidberg, has such a huge personality that it’s always a treat whenever they’re grouped in one room. The setting additionally makes leeway for a universe of other fun characters worthy of their own spinoffs.

#3: “Adventure Time” (2010-)

“Adventure Time” is another animated series of infinite possibilities and characters. Although Jake the Dog and Finn the Human get top billing, each inhabitant of Ooo demonstrates the capacity to carry an entire episode. Whether it’s a major character like Princess Bubblegum, a secondary character like Tree Trunks, or a background character like Shelby, you’re always interested to learn the backstories of these lovable individuals and what they’re up to. They make you wish this wonderful world were real so we too could have crazy adventures and form mathematical friendships.

#2: “Bob’s Burgers” (2011-)

An animated sitcom about a quirky family is nothing new. As a matter of fact, it’s probably the most overused concept in the realm of cartoons. “Bob’s Burgers” proves, though, that it’s not about how original the premise is. It’s about how original your characters are. There isn’t a weak link in the entire Belcher clan, with Bob, Linda, Tina, Gene, and Louise all serving up their own unique platter of laughs. Beyond the burger shop is an assortment of memorable friends, rivals, and even the occasional customer.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
- “Gargoyles” (1994-97)
- “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic” (2010-)
- “Family Guy” (1999-2003; 2005-)
- “Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2005-08)

#1: “The Simpsons” (1989-)

Homer, Bart, Marge, Lisa, and Maggie Simpson have cemented their place as five of the most immortal characters in the history of animation. Their endless series has also made stars of Springfield’s numerous other residents, like Chief Wiggum, Mr. Burns, and Apu Nahasapeemapetilon. In a cast of hundreds, almost every character has a defining moment and unforgettable catchphrase. While they may be animated, their rich personalities make them feel real. Consequentially, Springfield is more than just a small town, but a living, breathing world of its own that’s practically inhabitable.

Do you agree with our list? What’s your favorite cartoon ensemble cast? For more entertaining Top 10s published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.