Top 20 Best Friends in Cartoons
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Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the very best BFFs in animated TV shows. While best buds can definitely be found in family, in the interest of narrowing down our selection, we’ll be sticking to non-familial friendships. Minor spoilers ahead!
In the arsenal of cartoon trios, Alex, Clover, and Sam are one of the most iconic. There’s also a good chance they take the crown for most fashionable. When you attend school, work with, and live with the same two people, there’s no question about the bond you form. These girls are as close as can be, working like a well-oiled machine in nearly everything they do. While their distinct personalities can sometimes lead to the occasional spat, their unique traits are more often than not what makes the friendship and work partnership so solid. Each girl brings their own strengths to the table, leaving few ventures the team can’t accomplish.
Possibly one of Disney Channel’s most underrated cartoons, “Amphibia” follows Anne Boonchuy, a teenager who gets stuck in a world full of anthropomorphic amphibians. She’s taken in by the Plantars after being discovered by Sprig, a ten-year-old pink frog. Despite all the things they don’t have in common, humor, bravery, and acceptance appear to transcend trivial things like species and homeworlds. The two form an unbreakable connection, not just when they need to protect each other from threats, but in the mundane moments too.
Middle school is generally agreed to be the one of the worst periods of life and, after all the gross, ridiculous, and embarrassing situations they’ve found themselves in, it’s kind of a miracle these two are still friends. As dysfunctional as they can be, Nick and Andrew’s friendship is marked by moments of deep emotional support. If Nick’s still friends with Andrew after all the times he’s let his hormones get the best of him, and if Andrew is still friends with Nick after all every selfish, uncalled-for thing he’s done, then their friendship can survive anything.
Although Harley and Ivy ultimately become romantically involved, the reason their relationship works in the first place is because of the strong foundation of friendship they built beforehand. Harley went to Ivy when she needed a voice of reason, and Ivy could always count on energy and loud support from Harley. As these characters grow and make each other better, their bond only ever strengthens, even through the rough patches. Rooted in mutual support, this is a connection fueled by the effort to understand each other and the promise to always keep trying to be better.
The friend group we all wanted to be a part of when we grew up! Despite all the funny, awkward predicaments these characters land themselves in, there’s something so undeniably cool about Jen, Caitlyn, Nikki, Jonesy, Wyatt, and Jude. They feel like real people who’ve known each other a long time. No one feels the need to impress anyone else, and they’re always candid about what they’re thinking and how they’re feeling. As “Friends” taught everyone, six is a nice number that works well for exploring different combinations of interactions, with the best episodes almost always resulting in strengthening ties between the most different personalities in the group.
Despite what King Bob would have you believe, these guys ruled the playground. The misfits of fourth grade – T.J., Spinelli, Gretchen, Vince, Mikey, and Gus – were constantly seen banding together to fight for what they believed in, enact change, and look out for the little guy. This is another example of a band of friends where everyone has their unique role, but where niche interests and a common cause unites individuals and the group as a whole. It leaves us with just one question: when do we get to see the gang navigate high school together?!
Not that your friend becoming a half-ghost is any reason to abandon them, but it’s kind of remarkable how Sam and Tucker take it in stride. They help Danny through all of his phantom heroics and stay firmly rooted in place, even when the stakes become life-threatening. Their roles are pretty typical as far as trios go: the reluctant hero, the strong-willed love-interrest, and the tech-savvy best friend. But, we also get to see these traits expanded upon and balanced out with other qualities and the characters grow and learn.
While Beast Boy and Cyborg might be the closest buds out of the group, it’s impossible to omit the rest of the Titans. Although Robin and Starfire share something beyond platonic friendship, we also see several other pairings connect deeply over the course of the show. Beast Boy and Raven work to understand each other better. Starfire and Cyborg both know what it’s like to face prejudice. Robin and Raven take care of each other the way family does. If there’s any friend group who embodies the found-family trope perfectly, it’s the Teen Titans.
Tommy Pickles and Chuckie Finster’s friendship is at the heart of “Rugrats”. It embodies everything the show stands for: loyalty, trust, bravery, and understanding. Thanks to Tommy, Chuckie learns to be more adventurous, while Tommy can sometimes be seen slowing down to consider Chuckie’s interpretation of things. No matter how differently they see a situation, they never leave each other’s side. It’s rare we get to follow friends through so many periods of their lives but, thanks to reboots set in the future, we’ve seen their bond remain invincible years down the line.
Despite frequent arguments and occasional betrayals during their schemes, the Eds always return to each other. Their friendship is a constant, even when the world around them (especially the other kids in the cul-de-sac) turns against them. Much like other classic trios, they each bring something distinct to the function, which often hilariously hampers their plans as much as helps them. Still, this trio’s bond is shown to be more than just a vehicle for humor—it’s their refuge in a world that doesn’t always understand or accept them.
One of our favorite BFF pairings from childhood, Arthur and Buster have one of the most enduring cartoon friendships thanks to how long their show ran. While all the friends are close, Arthur and Buster sometimes feel more like brothers. The two balance each other nicely, with Arthur being more cautious and driven, and Buster bringing a sense of imagination and curiosity to their dynamic. As with many childhood friendships, they can sometimes become annoyed by each other. But their relationship is marked most by their support for one another in moments of vulnerability—like when Buster struggles with his parents’ divorce or when Arthur feels overwhelmed by school or family. They’re a testament to the importance of having a friend who truly "gets" you, flaws and all.
And they were roommates. A key element of “Futurama”, the bond between Fry and Bender is as unlikely as they come. Fry is rather naive and optimistic, while Bender is hedonistic and morally dubious, at best. And, yet, they just work. Fry’s unwavering loyalty softens Bender, while Bender is often seen protecting Fry. Their living situation is hilariously chaotic, reflecting their unconventional dynamic— Bender doesn’t need most of the comforts of human life, while Fry adapts to Bender’s robot-centric habits. This is a friendship frequently as heartwarming as it is unnerving. It shows us things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Per the title, the relationship between Beavis and Butt-Head is the cornerstone of this beloved adult animated sitcom. A crass portrayal of friendship between teenage boys, their rapport is defined by shared immaturity, a penchant for mischief, and an enduring loyalty to one another. They’re best friends who enable and amplify each other’s stupidity, creating hilariously chaotic and absurd predicaments. It never matters that they’re outcasts because they’re outcasts together. While they may not be two of the brightest on our list, they’re definitely some of the most entertaining.
Best friends since childhood, Kim and Ron have always pretty much only had each other. They’re best friends, neighbours, world-saving partners and, eventually, a romantic couple. This is soulmate stuff, right here. While they do befriend others, the bond Kim and Ron share is something special. While Kim may be the overachiever of the two, Ron is her rock. Their personalities complement each other well, with each bringing out the best in the other. These two are a perfect match in every way – it’s no wonder they were one of the first pairings we ever shipped.
Mordecai and Rigby are far from always being good friends to each other. But that’s why we appreciate the depiction of their connection. They make bad decisions, they become obsessed with their own self-interests, they hurt each other – but they always come around in the end and attempt to make amends. There’s a lot to love about the companionship they form living and working together at such a developmental stage of their lives. The challenges they ultimately face through the series’ run makes it clear that, no matter how far they may drift, they’ll always be there for each other.
Does it get more iconic than these guys? Perhaps the most quintessential of all cartoon camaraderie, Fred and Barney paved the way for what adult male friendships in animated media looks like today. Their bond reflects the classic sitcom dynamic of two best friends who are as much partners in mischief as they are pillars of support for one another. We get the ‘straight man and funny man’ trope, innumerable get-rich-quick schemes and, of course, unwavering commitment to each other. No matter what they’re up to Fred and Barney’s bond is at the heart of the humor and heart of “The Flintstones”. Even their wives and kids are besties!
We know we said no family ties for this list, but Sokka and Katara are only one part of this group dynamic. We get to see strong relations form between everyone over the course of the series, including Momo and Appa! While their initial connection is built on helping Aang master all four elements, the bond between Aang, Katara, Sokka, Toph – and eventually Zuko and Suki too! – becomes the heart of the show. These characters, each with unique personalities and abilities, are united by more than just their mission to restore balance to the world. They become inseparable as they face war together, overcome the impossible, and learn from one another.
There are few bonds like that of a man and his dog. It’s why Shaggy and Scooby have the closest companionship out of everyone in the group. But, you don’t solve mysteries together for years without becoming a tight-knit group. Everyone has their role and, although different takes on the Mystery Gang have shaken up dynamics in the group, they’re consistently bound by teamwork, problem-solving, and bravery. After all, there are few things as unifying as being scared out of your wits together.
These are a pair of friends where we simply can’t imagine one without the other. With a relationship marked by good times, daring adventures, and the call to always do the right thing, Finn and Jake are the heroes we love to root for. Their interactions are always fun and it doesn’t take long before they start to seem more like brothers to us. They always seem to know what the other needs and they’re constantly seen putting the other before themselves. No matter what they face, they face it together – and that is the heart and soul of “Adventure Time”.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
One of the most iconic and entertaining friendships in animated television history, SpongeBob and Patrick have been making us laugh for decades now. Their bond is central to the humor of the show, providing us a well-rounded mix of hilarity, unfaltering support, and childlike enthusiasm. It’s a delight to witness this duo interact because it’s almost always a carefree, optimistic, or playful experience. Even when things go astray, their reconciliations are fast and reinforcing. There aren’t many friendships quite as pure as the one SpongeBob and Patrick have.
Let us know who your favorite set of cartoon best friends are in the comments!
Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the very best BFFs in animated TV shows. While best buds can definitely be found in family, in the interest of narrowing down our selection, we’ll be sticking to non-familial friendships. Minor spoilers ahead!
#20: Alex, Clover, & Sam
“Totally Spies!” (2001-08; 2014-15; 2025-)In the arsenal of cartoon trios, Alex, Clover, and Sam are one of the most iconic. There’s also a good chance they take the crown for most fashionable. When you attend school, work with, and live with the same two people, there’s no question about the bond you form. These girls are as close as can be, working like a well-oiled machine in nearly everything they do. While their distinct personalities can sometimes lead to the occasional spat, their unique traits are more often than not what makes the friendship and work partnership so solid. Each girl brings their own strengths to the table, leaving few ventures the team can’t accomplish.
#19: Anne Boonchuy & Sprig Plantar
“Amphibia” (2019-22)Possibly one of Disney Channel’s most underrated cartoons, “Amphibia” follows Anne Boonchuy, a teenager who gets stuck in a world full of anthropomorphic amphibians. She’s taken in by the Plantars after being discovered by Sprig, a ten-year-old pink frog. Despite all the things they don’t have in common, humor, bravery, and acceptance appear to transcend trivial things like species and homeworlds. The two form an unbreakable connection, not just when they need to protect each other from threats, but in the mundane moments too.
#18: Nick Birch & Andrew Glouberman
“Big Mouth” (2017-)Middle school is generally agreed to be the one of the worst periods of life and, after all the gross, ridiculous, and embarrassing situations they’ve found themselves in, it’s kind of a miracle these two are still friends. As dysfunctional as they can be, Nick and Andrew’s friendship is marked by moments of deep emotional support. If Nick’s still friends with Andrew after all the times he’s let his hormones get the best of him, and if Andrew is still friends with Nick after all every selfish, uncalled-for thing he’s done, then their friendship can survive anything.
#17: Harley Quinn & Poison Ivy
“Harley Quinn” (2019-)Although Harley and Ivy ultimately become romantically involved, the reason their relationship works in the first place is because of the strong foundation of friendship they built beforehand. Harley went to Ivy when she needed a voice of reason, and Ivy could always count on energy and loud support from Harley. As these characters grow and make each other better, their bond only ever strengthens, even through the rough patches. Rooted in mutual support, this is a connection fueled by the effort to understand each other and the promise to always keep trying to be better.
#16: The “6teen” Crew
“6teen” (2004-10)The friend group we all wanted to be a part of when we grew up! Despite all the funny, awkward predicaments these characters land themselves in, there’s something so undeniably cool about Jen, Caitlyn, Nikki, Jonesy, Wyatt, and Jude. They feel like real people who’ve known each other a long time. No one feels the need to impress anyone else, and they’re always candid about what they’re thinking and how they’re feeling. As “Friends” taught everyone, six is a nice number that works well for exploring different combinations of interactions, with the best episodes almost always resulting in strengthening ties between the most different personalities in the group.
#15: The Recess Gang
“Recess” (1997-2001)Despite what King Bob would have you believe, these guys ruled the playground. The misfits of fourth grade – T.J., Spinelli, Gretchen, Vince, Mikey, and Gus – were constantly seen banding together to fight for what they believed in, enact change, and look out for the little guy. This is another example of a band of friends where everyone has their unique role, but where niche interests and a common cause unites individuals and the group as a whole. It leaves us with just one question: when do we get to see the gang navigate high school together?!
#14: Danny Fenton, Sam Manson, & Tucker Foley
“Danny Phantom” (2004-07)Not that your friend becoming a half-ghost is any reason to abandon them, but it’s kind of remarkable how Sam and Tucker take it in stride. They help Danny through all of his phantom heroics and stay firmly rooted in place, even when the stakes become life-threatening. Their roles are pretty typical as far as trios go: the reluctant hero, the strong-willed love-interrest, and the tech-savvy best friend. But, we also get to see these traits expanded upon and balanced out with other qualities and the characters grow and learn.
#13: The Teen Titans
“Teen Titans” (2003-06)While Beast Boy and Cyborg might be the closest buds out of the group, it’s impossible to omit the rest of the Titans. Although Robin and Starfire share something beyond platonic friendship, we also see several other pairings connect deeply over the course of the show. Beast Boy and Raven work to understand each other better. Starfire and Cyborg both know what it’s like to face prejudice. Robin and Raven take care of each other the way family does. If there’s any friend group who embodies the found-family trope perfectly, it’s the Teen Titans.
#12: Tommy Pickles & Chuckie Finster
“Rugrats” franchise (1990-)Tommy Pickles and Chuckie Finster’s friendship is at the heart of “Rugrats”. It embodies everything the show stands for: loyalty, trust, bravery, and understanding. Thanks to Tommy, Chuckie learns to be more adventurous, while Tommy can sometimes be seen slowing down to consider Chuckie’s interpretation of things. No matter how differently they see a situation, they never leave each other’s side. It’s rare we get to follow friends through so many periods of their lives but, thanks to reboots set in the future, we’ve seen their bond remain invincible years down the line.
#11: The Eds
“Ed, Edd n Eddy” (1999-2009)Despite frequent arguments and occasional betrayals during their schemes, the Eds always return to each other. Their friendship is a constant, even when the world around them (especially the other kids in the cul-de-sac) turns against them. Much like other classic trios, they each bring something distinct to the function, which often hilariously hampers their plans as much as helps them. Still, this trio’s bond is shown to be more than just a vehicle for humor—it’s their refuge in a world that doesn’t always understand or accept them.
#10: Arthur Read & Buster Baxter
“Arthur” (1996-2022)One of our favorite BFF pairings from childhood, Arthur and Buster have one of the most enduring cartoon friendships thanks to how long their show ran. While all the friends are close, Arthur and Buster sometimes feel more like brothers. The two balance each other nicely, with Arthur being more cautious and driven, and Buster bringing a sense of imagination and curiosity to their dynamic. As with many childhood friendships, they can sometimes become annoyed by each other. But their relationship is marked most by their support for one another in moments of vulnerability—like when Buster struggles with his parents’ divorce or when Arthur feels overwhelmed by school or family. They’re a testament to the importance of having a friend who truly "gets" you, flaws and all.
#9: Philip J. Fry & Bender Bending Rodriguez
“Futurama” (1999-2003; 2008-13; 2023-)And they were roommates. A key element of “Futurama”, the bond between Fry and Bender is as unlikely as they come. Fry is rather naive and optimistic, while Bender is hedonistic and morally dubious, at best. And, yet, they just work. Fry’s unwavering loyalty softens Bender, while Bender is often seen protecting Fry. Their living situation is hilariously chaotic, reflecting their unconventional dynamic— Bender doesn’t need most of the comforts of human life, while Fry adapts to Bender’s robot-centric habits. This is a friendship frequently as heartwarming as it is unnerving. It shows us things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
#8: Beavis & Butt-Head
“Beavis and Butt-Head” (1993-2011; 2022-23)Per the title, the relationship between Beavis and Butt-Head is the cornerstone of this beloved adult animated sitcom. A crass portrayal of friendship between teenage boys, their rapport is defined by shared immaturity, a penchant for mischief, and an enduring loyalty to one another. They’re best friends who enable and amplify each other’s stupidity, creating hilariously chaotic and absurd predicaments. It never matters that they’re outcasts because they’re outcasts together. While they may not be two of the brightest on our list, they’re definitely some of the most entertaining.
#7: Kim Possible & Ron Stoppable
“Kim Possible” (2002-07)Best friends since childhood, Kim and Ron have always pretty much only had each other. They’re best friends, neighbours, world-saving partners and, eventually, a romantic couple. This is soulmate stuff, right here. While they do befriend others, the bond Kim and Ron share is something special. While Kim may be the overachiever of the two, Ron is her rock. Their personalities complement each other well, with each bringing out the best in the other. These two are a perfect match in every way – it’s no wonder they were one of the first pairings we ever shipped.
#6: Mordecai & Rigby
“Regular Show” (2010-17)Mordecai and Rigby are far from always being good friends to each other. But that’s why we appreciate the depiction of their connection. They make bad decisions, they become obsessed with their own self-interests, they hurt each other – but they always come around in the end and attempt to make amends. There’s a lot to love about the companionship they form living and working together at such a developmental stage of their lives. The challenges they ultimately face through the series’ run makes it clear that, no matter how far they may drift, they’ll always be there for each other.
#5: Fred Flintstone & Barney Rubble
“The Flintstones” (1960-66)Does it get more iconic than these guys? Perhaps the most quintessential of all cartoon camaraderie, Fred and Barney paved the way for what adult male friendships in animated media looks like today. Their bond reflects the classic sitcom dynamic of two best friends who are as much partners in mischief as they are pillars of support for one another. We get the ‘straight man and funny man’ trope, innumerable get-rich-quick schemes and, of course, unwavering commitment to each other. No matter what they’re up to Fred and Barney’s bond is at the heart of the humor and heart of “The Flintstones”. Even their wives and kids are besties!
#4: The ATLA Gang
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2005-08)We know we said no family ties for this list, but Sokka and Katara are only one part of this group dynamic. We get to see strong relations form between everyone over the course of the series, including Momo and Appa! While their initial connection is built on helping Aang master all four elements, the bond between Aang, Katara, Sokka, Toph – and eventually Zuko and Suki too! – becomes the heart of the show. These characters, each with unique personalities and abilities, are united by more than just their mission to restore balance to the world. They become inseparable as they face war together, overcome the impossible, and learn from one another.
#3: The Mystery Gang
“Scooby-Doo” franchise (1969-)There are few bonds like that of a man and his dog. It’s why Shaggy and Scooby have the closest companionship out of everyone in the group. But, you don’t solve mysteries together for years without becoming a tight-knit group. Everyone has their role and, although different takes on the Mystery Gang have shaken up dynamics in the group, they’re consistently bound by teamwork, problem-solving, and bravery. After all, there are few things as unifying as being scared out of your wits together.
#2: Finn the Human & Jake the Dog
“Adventure Time” franchise (2010-)These are a pair of friends where we simply can’t imagine one without the other. With a relationship marked by good times, daring adventures, and the call to always do the right thing, Finn and Jake are the heroes we love to root for. Their interactions are always fun and it doesn’t take long before they start to seem more like brothers to us. They always seem to know what the other needs and they’re constantly seen putting the other before themselves. No matter what they face, they face it together – and that is the heart and soul of “Adventure Time”.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
Mac & Bloo, “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends” (2004-09)
Their Bond Is Anything but ImaginaryRocky Squirrel & Bullwinkle J. Moose, “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show” (1959-64)
Rocky’s Quick Thinking & Bullwinkle’s Good-Hearted Antics Always See Them Through Their AdventuresClark Kent & Jimmy Olsen, “My Adventures with Superman” (2023-)
It’s Nice to See a Version of this Friendship Where Clark Doesn’t Keep His Secret for So LongReagan Ridley & Brett Hand, “Inside Job” (2021-22)
Breagan For Life!Steven Universe & Connie Maheswaran, “Steven Universe” franchise (2013-20)
Connie Kept Him Grounded & Steven Helped Her Confidence#1: SpongeBob SquarePants & Patrick Star
“SpongeBob SquarePants” (1999-)One of the most iconic and entertaining friendships in animated television history, SpongeBob and Patrick have been making us laugh for decades now. Their bond is central to the humor of the show, providing us a well-rounded mix of hilarity, unfaltering support, and childlike enthusiasm. It’s a delight to witness this duo interact because it’s almost always a carefree, optimistic, or playful experience. Even when things go astray, their reconciliations are fast and reinforcing. There aren’t many friendships quite as pure as the one SpongeBob and Patrick have.
Let us know who your favorite set of cartoon best friends are in the comments!
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