Top 100 Animated Characters of All Time

#100: Baymax

“Big Hero 6” (2014)

Who can ever resist a friendly robot? Baymax was the creation of protagonist Hiro’s brother, Tadashi. Baymax was conceived as a personalized nurse meant to support the individual in their healthcare needs, able to scan and diagnose diseases. Not only that, but he is trained to activate via signs of distress and can only be deactivated with the phrase, “I am satisfied with my care.” A robot that cares—we’re sold already. Baymax was an immediate fan favorite for his sweetness and even acts of heroism, and it wasn’t long before he became the lead in his own TV show in 2022. Now that’s no shock.

#99: Woody Woodpecker

“Woody Woodpecker” franchise (1940-)

Once you hear his laugh, you will never forget it. Woody Woodpecker was the creation of artists Walter Benjamin Lantz and Ben “Bugs” Hardaway in 1940, originally voiced by the legendary Mel Blanc. With the rise of television, Woody starred in his own TV show from 1957 until 1977, five years after Lantz closed down his studio. Thanks to his iconic voice and mischievous personality, Woody is a screwball character in a fine tradition of other screwballs. He is now the official mascot of Universal Studios and is especially popular in Brazil. What an icon.

#98: The Minions

“Despicable Me” franchise (2010-)

We apologize in advance to parents. While Gru and the “gorls” made for an adorable team, it was Gru’s minions who stole the show. With their incomprehensible babble, cute diminutive bodies, and comic antics, they quickly became omnipresent in Internet memes. Although designed with only minimal differences in number of eyes or amount of hair, their individual personalities still shine through. 2015’s “Minions” even had an origin story for the creatures, who have existed since the dawn of time and apparently hard-wired to seek out villains. The Minions have since become the official mascot for Illumination and even Comcast icons. Your mileage may vary, but it’s clear these minions are here to stay.

#97: Tintin

“The Adventures of Tintin” franchise (1929-)

One of the most long-lasting and influential cartoons, “The Adventures of Tintin” is the work of Belgian cartoonist Georges Remi, better known as Hergé. Tintin is a brave and intrepid reporter who travels the world with his trusty dog Snowy. Tintin is modest, self-effacing, and with great mechanical skills. Hergé was inspired by his own brave brother, Paul, who later joined the Belgian Army, among other influences. Tintin has survived his creator’s death in 1983, appearing in countless adaptations across media, including Steven Spielberg’s 2011 motion capture film. With sales of over 200 million copies, “Tintin” is a franchise to remember, not in the least because of its titular protagonist. What a legend.

#96: Daniel “Danny” Fenton

“Danny Phantom” (2003-07)

Fans mourned the loss of this Annie Award-winning series when it ended after only three seasons, and the show quickly found a cult following. It’s no surprise why. The teen son of ghost-hunting parents, Danny Fenton’s life changed completely when an accident exploring his parents’ Ghost Portal made him a half-ghost with powers. Forced to keep the secret from the world and his parents, Danny learns to control and use his spooky powers for good. It’s a neat twist on an old theme, and Danny’s wit and resourcefulness, as well as his relatable teenage awkwardness, makes him an endearing hero to many.

#95: Bluey Heeler“Bluey” (2018-)

Preschool shows are no kid fodder. This very popular Australian series follows the titular protagonist as well as her family. We follow six-year-old Bluey as she goes on adventures and learns important lessons in growing up. Bluey is an adorable protagonist, friendly, curious, and energetic. Her relationships with her family are not only realistic, but relatable for both children and their parents, and watching her and her family solve problems together is satisfying. “Bluey” quickly won a whole host of accolades, including a Peabody Award in 2024, and is among the most popular contemporary shows for children. We love to see it.

#94: Dick Dastardly

“Wacky Races” (1968-69)

These wacky races can only be run by this dastardly character. Hanna-Barbera Productions has produced a whole host of iconic cartoons, including this ‘60s comedy featuring 11 different drivers racing each other to the finish line. The most memorable is definitely Dick Dastardly, who tries to win each race through cheating and trickery with the help of his sidekick dog, Muttley. Greedy and conniving, Dastardly was so popular he eventually got his own spin-off series. He and Muttley were even the nemesis of Yogi Bear in “Yogi’s Treasure Hunt,” proving that a great villain cannot be contained in just one series.

#93: Tinker Bell

“Peter Pan” (1953)

J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan is nothing to scoff at when it comes to influential and iconic characters, and Disney’s version is by far the most well-known and memorable. But the influence of Peter’s temperamental side pixie, Tinker Bell, is one for the books. Introduced in Disney’s 1953 version, Tinker Bell’s nonverbal sassiness, expressiveness, and fits of jealousy endeared her quickly to audiences. So much so, in fact, that Disney made her an official hostess of the company, particularly in advertisements, complete with magic wand and pixie dust. She is one of the few animated characters honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This pixie is a star indeed.

#92: Major Motoko Kusanagi

“Ghost in the Shell” (1995)

This critically-acclaimed Japanese cyberpunk film, known for some truly gorgeous animation, has an iconic lead to match. Major Kusanagi is a cyborg agent hunting down a mysterious hacker known only as the Puppet Master. Strong and independent, if brooding, Major began her career serving in the Japanese Army and became a master computer hacker. Her fully cybernetic body, blurring the lines between biology and artificial intelligence, begs many questions about what it means to be human. Major herself wonders whether her memories are real or entirely synthetic. Is Major a human or a robot? Either way, she is fascinating.

#91: Ed, Edd, & Eddy

“Ed, Edd n Eddy” (1999-2008)

Who can forget about these Eds? In this successful Cartoon Network series, we follow this suburban trio in their moneymaking schemes so they could purchase jawbreakers. Ed is the tallest, dim-witted, but good-natured; Edd or Double DD is the smartest and most mature; and Eddy is the ringleader, albeit arrogant and devious. They, of course, fail in hilariously humiliating ways, and frequently clash with the other cul-de-sac kids who scorn them. This oddball trio’s popularity went beyond their original series, appearing in many media over the years as well as shorts. They are truly unforgettable.

#90: Fire Lord Zuko

“Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2005-08)

We are still obsessed over this villain redemption arc. As the Crown Prince, Zuko lives under the shadow of his tyrannical father, Fire Lord Ozai, who scars him permanently and banishes him from the Fire Nation. In order to restore his throne, Zuko must capture the Avatar, Aang. In a twist, however, Zuko eventually comes to realize the extent of the Fire Nation’s horrific crimes against humanity. He eventually joins Team Avatar and wins their trust. And of course, who can forget Zuko’s touching relationship with his true father figure, the wise Uncle Iroh? This bad boy is a good one.

#89: Elsa

“Frozen” (2013)

#88: Snake Eyes

“G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero” (1983-86)

#87: Kim Possible

“Kim Possible” (2002-07)

#86: Mr. Fox

“Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009)

#85: Simba

“The Lion King” (1994)

The hero’s journey of this lion is too good to pass up. Simba begins the story as a lively but arrogant prince-to-be, gently educated by his wise father, Mufasa. When Mufasa dies, Simba is manipulated by his uncle to exile himself from Pride Rock. There he spends a dissolute life with the delightfully comic Timon and Pumbaa, who live by only one philosophy: Hakuna matata, or “no worries.” But the past catches up to Simba at last, with the ghost of his father urging him to embrace his destiny. Simba’s arc is more than satisfying to witness: It’s the stuff of legend.

#84: Felix the Cat

“Felix the Cat” franchise (1919-)

#83: ROZZUM Unit 7134 (Roz)

“The Wild Robot” (2024)

#82: Spike Spiegel

“Cowboy Bebop” (1998)

#81: Betty Boop

“Betty Boop” franchise (1930-)

#80: Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz

“Phineas and Ferb” (2007-15, 2025-)

Well, we’ll be honest, we really understand the appeal of this goofy Doof. Dr. Doofenshmirtz is the thickly-accented antagonist to his nemesis, Perry the Platypus. An evil genius scientist so bumbling it’s endearing, Dr. Doofenshmirtz charms us with his antics and surprisingly good singing and rap skills. He also has a joke backstory about his sad life in Drusselstein that makes Dr. Evil’s look privileged by comparison. At least both his parents showed up at his birth. Plus, his love for his daughter Vanessa is heartwarming. There are far less sympathetic heroes than this lovable villain.

#79: Prince Adam (He-Man)

“He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” (1983-84)

#78: Huey R. & Riley Freeman“The Boondocks” (2005-14)

#77: Dexter

“Dexter’s Laboratory” (1996-2003)

#76: Joy

“Inside Out” (2015)

#75: BoJack Horseman

“BoJack Horseman” (2014-20)

Anti-heroes are everywhere in live-action series, so why not in animation? This anthropomorphic horse was once a big ‘90s sitcom star, now washed up and struggling to make his comeback. Smart but also highly jaded and cynical, we see BoJack Horseman struggle with his mental health and substance use problems. BoJack is also an imperfect friend, failing to stand up for Herb Kazzaz when he gets fired. When BoJack tries to apologize, Herb lets him have it. Harsh, but true. When it comes to complicated and less than squeaky-clean protagonists, BoJack’s character is tragicomic perfection.

#74: Howl Jenkins Pendragon

“Howl’s Moving Castle” (2004)

#73: Finn the Human & Jake the Dog

“Adventure Time” (2010-18)

#72: Bender Bending Rodríguez

“Futurama” (1999-2003; 2008-13; 2023-)

#71: Pinocchio

“Pinocchio” (1940)

#70: Samurai Jack

“Samurai Jack” (2001-04; 2017)

From the creator of “Dexter’s Laboratory” comes this tragic hero. Set in Feudal Japan, a prince-turned-samurai is battling a demon lord Aku when the latter sent him forward to a dystopian future ruled by Aku himself. Desperate to go home, adopting the name of Samurai Jack, hek fights all kinds of beings with his magical katana, such as aliens, talking animals, monsters, and even robots. Stoic, but unfailingly generous and self-sacrificing, Jack consistently puts other people’s needs before his. Not to mention, he really has awesome martial arts skills. Now that’s a hero.

#69: Kiki

“Kiki’s Delivery Service” (1989)

#68: WALL-E

“WALL-E” (2008)

#67: Yogi Bear

“The Huckleberry Hound Show” (1958-61)

#66: Beavis & Butt-Head

“Beavis and Butt-Head” (1993-97; 2011; 2022-23; 2025-)

#65: The Iron Giant

“The Iron Giant” (1999)

“You stay. I go. No following.” We’re not crying, we just got something in our eye. Set in the ‘50s during the Cold War, this underrated gem of a film follows Hogarth Hughes as he discovers and befriends an enormous alien robot. Although a powerful weapon in himself, the Giant is nevertheless consistently kind, gentle, and innocent. Throughout the film, we see the creature is capable of loving and caring for others. His actions in the final act are no less than poignant. We’ll never forget this gentle giant.

#64: Popeye the Sailor Man

“Popeye the Sailor” franchise (1929-)

#63: Moana of Motunui

“Moana” (2016)

#62: Puss in Boots

“Shrek” franchise (2001-)

#61: Rocket “Rocky” J. Squirrel & Bullwinkle J. Moose

“The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle and Friends” (1959-64)

#60: Ahsoka Tano

“Star Wars: The Clone Wars” (2008–2014; 2020)

We first meet this badass as the young padawan to a very reluctant Anakin Skywalker during the Clone Wars. Initially believing she’d slow him down, Anakin quickly takes to Tano, and so do we. Tano is brash, impulsive, but brave, butting heads with and eventually becoming close friends with her mentor. Tano’s skills are also extraordinary, holding her own against Jedi hunter General Grievous himself in lightsaber combat. She is also a powerful Force user, adept at telekinesis and sensing the emotions of those around her. A powerful female Jedi with a great character arc, it’s no secret why Ahsoka is so beloved.

#59: Jack Skellington

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)

#58: Prince Ashitaka

“Princess Mononoke” (1997)

#57: Alvin, Simon, & Theodore Seville

“Alvin & the Chipmunks” franchise (1958-)

#56: Fred Flintstone

“The Flintstones” (1960-66)

#55: Toothless

“How to Train Your Dragon” franchise (2010-)

Granted, Hiccup is the rare dorkish protagonist who actually shows his smarts and competence early on. But his pet dragon is nothing less than adorable. Raised in an anti-dragon Viking village, Hiccup’s life changes when he shoots down a Night Fury, one of the rarest dragon types around. Deciding to set the dragon free, Hiccup is shocked when the dragon spares him in return. He and the freshly named Toothless become friends, with Hiccup helping the injured dragon to fly again. It helps that Toothless acts more like a friendly, if excitable, dog than a fearsome monster and is touchingly loyal to Hiccup. There really is no bond stronger than that of a boy and his dragon.

#54: Remy

“Ratatouille” (2007)

#53: Belle

“Beauty and the Beast” (1991)

#52: Richard “Rick” Sánchez & Mortimer Chauncey “Morty” Smith Sr.

“Rick and Morty” (2013-)

#51: Lisa Marie Simpson

“The Simpsons” (1989-)

#50: Buddy Pine (Syndrome)

“The Incredibles” (2004)

This geeky villain turned out more menacing than we could have ever anticipated. Beginning as an unabashed superhero fanboy, Buddy Pine offers to be a sidekick to Bob, a.k.a. Mr. Incredible, but is rejected due to his lack of powers. Becoming resentful of superheroes, Pine grows up to become the wealthy tech genius Syndrome. It’s unfortunate Syndrome had such an insecurity over his lack of powers, because his technological prowess and ingenuity more than make up for it. Unfortunately, being a hero is more than just beating up bad guys, but doing good deeds, which Syndrome is incapable of doing. This is a superhero villain for the books.

#49: Goofy

“Mickey Mouse & Friends” franchise (1928-)

#48: Coraline Jones

“Coraline” (2009)

#47: Guts

“Berserk” (1997-98)

#46: Markus Sebastian “Mark” Grayson

“Invincible” (2021-)

#45: Tiana Rogers“The Princess and the Frog” (2009)

The first African American Disney princess is an inspiration. Kind, resourceful, and hard-working, Tiana begins as a workaholic with two waitress jobs, determined to realize her dream of opening her own restaurant in 1920s New Orleans. Her plans go awry when trying to break the curse on Prince Naveen turns her into a frog as well. Intelligent but a workaholic, Tiana eventually learns not to neglect herself in pursuing her passion. In the end, she shows bravery and courage in not just realizing her dreams, but accepting love. She really had it all.

#44: Benjamin Kirby “Ben” Tennyson

“Ben 10” franchise (2005-)

#43: Garfield

“Garfield” franchise (1976-)

#42: Cinderella

“Cinderella” (1950)

#41: Johnny Bravo

“Johnny Bravo” (1997-2004)

#40: Miles Gonzalo Morales

“Spider-Verse” franchise (2018-)

This multiverse superhero film follows one of the most relatable Spider-Mans. Miles Morales is the Brooklyn-born Spider-Man of Earth-1610, the Afro-Latino son of an African American father and a Puerto Rican mother. Miles is friendly, down-to-earth, and relatable. His loyalty and love for his friends and family are inspiring. Although initially longing to be just an ordinary boy, Miles bravely continues Peter Parker’s legacy, fighting for peace and justice. Despite others’ doubts of his abilities and his own fears, Miles proves he is a Spider-Man worth following.

#39: Maleficent

“Sleeping Beauty” (1959)

#38: Daffy Duck

“Looney Tunes” franchise (1930-)

#37: Totoro

“My Neighbour Totoro” (1988)

#36: Dory

“Finding Nemo” franchise (2003-)

#35: Wallace & Gromit

“Wallace & Gromit” franchise (1989-)

There is no greater bond than that of a friendly eccentric and his dog. Created by Nick Park, these British animated icons starred in critically-acclaimed shorts, beginning with “A Grand Day Out.” Wallace is a good-natured bachelor, inventor, and cheese-lover. While his book-reading dog Gromit doesn’t speak, his bravery and resourcefulness are apparent. And when Wallace starts to cower, one can always count on Gromit to get things done. Together, they go on adventures and face a variety of threats and adversaries. Their friendship, based on mutual affection and respect, is touching. We can’t get enough of this cozy duo.

#34: Master Ping Po

“Kung Fu Panda” franchise (2008-)

#33: Tina Ruth Belcher

“Bob’s Burgers” (2011-)

#32: Arthur Timothy Read

“Arthur” (1996-2022)

#31: Wile E. Coyote

“Looney Tunes” franchise (1930-)

#30: Ash Ketchum & Pikachu

“Pokémon” franchise (1997-)

Speaking of duos, we have to talk about these two. Ambitious, good-natured, and optimistic, young tween Ash Ketchum works hard to become a Pokémon Master, traveling through various regions and competing in tournaments. His first Pokémon, Pikachu, is one of the most enduring in the series, and together they become a formidable duo that works seamlessly with each other. With his cute design and sweet expressiveness, Pikachu has especially become a beloved icon and even an internet meme. After 25 seasons, the duo’s arc finally ended in 2023, causing #ThankYouAshAndPikachu to trend. Thank you, indeed.

#29: The Grinch

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” (1966)

#28: Ms. Valerie Frizzle

“The Magic School Bus” (1994-97)

#27: Optimus Prime

“The Transformers” (1984-87)

#26: Mike Wazowski

“Monsters, Inc.” franchise (2001-)

#25: Roger Rabbit

“Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988)

Granted, his sultry wife is a goodie of a baddie. But Roger Rabbit pays tribute to the greats while still being his own lovable character. One of the most successful animated actors for Maroon Cartoons, Roger’s life turns upside down when he finds himself framed for the murder of Marvin Acme. Excitable, anxious, and occasionally cowardly, Roger is also friendly, charming, and effortlessly funny. The film released promotional cartoon shorts every bit as wacky and entertaining as the classics, starring a hapless Roger running after Baby Herman. He makes all of us laugh.

#24: Eric Theodore Cartman

“South Park” (1997-)

#23: Donald Duck

“Mickey Mouse & Friends” franchise (1928-)

#22: Monkey D. Luffy

“One Piece” (1999-)

#21: Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael & Michelangelo

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” (1987-96)

#20: Tetsuo Shima

“Akira” (1988)

This influential and stylish cult hit follows the vigilante leader Shōtarō Kaneda as his gang wages war in the streets of Neo Tokyo. But his childhood best friend, Tetsuo, is where the real story lies. Rash, aggressive, and impulsive, Tetsuo harbors an intense inferiority complex, resentful of his subordinate status under Kaneda. When he develops psychic powers, he becomes a destructive force in his search for Akira, wreaking havoc throughout Neo Tokyo and betraying Kaneda. In the end, Testsuo proves a victim of his own powers. A memorable antagonist, Tetsuo’s tragic arc is a haunting one.

#19: Stitch (Experiment 626)“Lilo & Stitch” franchise (2002-)

This lovable alien is an unforgettable one. In this film, Stitch begins as an illegal experiment who escapes his creator. He hijacks a spacecraft and crash-lands on Hawaii, where he is adopted as a pet dog by a quirky Lilo and her older sister Nani. Though initially mischievous and ill-behaved, Stitch develops a close bond with Lilo, especially as the latter discovers Stitch’s abilities, and he eventually learns the meaning of “ohana.” With his hilarious antics, fluid animation, and striking design, Stitch was quickly an audience favorite, starring in various sequels and spin-offs. We’re glad he got his own movie.

#18: Blossom, Bubbles, & Buttercup

“The Powerpuff Girls” (1998-2005)

These three have dedicated their lives to rid the forces of evil. Beginning as experiments in creating the perfect little girls, Professor Utonium accidentally gives them superpowers with the inclusion of Chemical X. Blossom is the de facto leader in pink, Bubbles is the cute, sweet one in blue, and Buttercup is the quintessential tough girl in green. With clearly defined personalities, awesome powers, and memorable nemeses, the crime-fighting trio is ‘90s girl power at its most entertaining. The fact that their arcs don’t depend on the inclusion of romantic interests is also great. This series still stands the test of time.

#17: Avatar Aang

“Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2005-08)

Villains tend to be more popular than heroes for obvious reasons. But when a great hero protagonist comes along, we have to give kudos. A carefree air bender, Aang’s life changes completely when he learns he is the Avatar, a legendary spirit that can control all four elements of air, earth, fire, and water. Fleeing from his destiny, Aang is frozen in an iceberg and eventually revived. Throughout the series, Aang must master all four elements, struggling to fight against injustice while being true to his pacifist principles. Not only that, but he must bear the worst burden of all: Losing his people. Reluctant heroes aren’t anything new, but Aang’s development from regular kid to true hero makes him one for the ages.

#16: Thomas Jasper Cat Sr. & Gerald Jinx Mouse

“Tom and Jerry” franchise (1940-)

Has there been adversaries as iconic as these two? One of the most iconic Hanna-Barbera cartoons, Tom is a cat determined to capture Jerry, a mouse, and rid the house of him. With Tom’s traps and Jerry’s cunning evasions, the two leave the mayhem and destruction at their wake. Although typically gleefully violent toward each other, Tom and Jerry can also put aside their differences and work together for a common cause. Beginning in shorts, the two eventually appeared in features, most notably 1945’s “Anchors Aweigh.” In their 1992 movie, they even talk for the first true time, and their interaction is exactly as you’d expect. These frenemies are the best.

#15: Snoopy

“Peanuts” franchise (1950-)

Of course, there is no Snoopy without his owner, Charlie Brown. Beginning as incredibly successful comic strip characters written by Charles M. Schulz, Charlie Brown and his dog Snoopy managed to make the leap into film and TV. But of the two, Snoopy is definitely the standout character. An imaginative and charming beagle, Snoopy is good-natured, languid, and occasionally sassy, particularly against cats. He eventually got his own spin-off show on Apple TV+. He even became the official mascot of aerospace safety, with a whole lunar module named after him. He’s an icon, all right.

#14: Bruce Wayne (Batman)

“Batman: The Animated Series” (1992-95)

Does this character need any introduction? It seems everyone knows the lurid Gothic tale of Bruce Wayne, who witnessed his parents’ deaths at a young age and dedicated his life to crime-fighting as a vigilante. Struggling with his own trauma, Batman understands the real social and mental health issues that fuel crime, choosing compassionate understanding over carceral punishment. There is also Mark Hamill’s villainous Joker, who strikes the right balance of theatrical and menacing. His ditzy and mistreated girlfriend, Harley Quinn, was in fact an original character of the series, now an inextricable part of the Batman mythos. But of course, nothing surpasses this legendary hero: After all, without him, crime has no punchline.

#13: Winnie-the-Pooh

Disney’s “Winnie-the-Pooh” franchise (1966-)

Children’s characters don’t get more legendary than this one. Created by A. A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh made his debut in 1926 for London’s “Evening News,” followed by a story collection. Pooh was eventually picked up and developed by Disney, giving the anthropomorphic bear his unforgettable design, including his eye-catching red shirt. Genial if slow and naïve, Pooh nevertheless displays tremendous courage and is a very able leader of the group. His comforting adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with his friends still continue in countless adaptations across all media. There’s no pooh-poohing this bear.

#12: Cruella de Vil

“One Hundred and One Dalmatians” (1961)

If she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will. Disney villains are already very popular and iconic in and of themselves. But this puppy-kidnapping fashionista surpasses typical Disney villainy and even her own film. With a thick fur coat draping a skeletal thin figure, with black-and-white hair, Cruella schemes to skin Pongo and Perdita’s Dalmatian puppies just to have a fur coat for her. Wealthy, spoiled, and, well, cruel, she has become a symbol of greed and animal cruelty. Also, that theme song of hers really is catchy. Cruella is one twisted lady you can’t and don’t want to redeem.

#11: Stewart Gilligan “Stewie” Griffin

“Family Guy” (1999-2003; 2005-)

Animated foul-mouthed babies with adult minds are nothing new. But Stewie is one delightfully evil toddler we can’t stop watching. In this satirical sitcom created by Seth MacFarlane, Stewie begins as a criminal mastermind blending the RP-accented eloquence and intelligence of a Bond villain with the body and psychology of a toddler. Stewie is also a prodigy, developing and wielding guns and working grown-up jobs. Stewie is not just hilarious, but highly relatable. Because let’s be honest: who hasn’t injected adult language and themes with our Barbies and G.I. Joes? It’s honestly relatable.

#10: Sheriff Woody Pride

“Toy Story” franchise (1995-)

Granted, Buzz Lightyear is a space ranger you never forget, and there’s a good reason why he became a real toy. But when it comes to character development, “Toy Story”’s lovably flawed protagonist takes the case. A genial cowboy doll and de facto leader of Andy’s toys, Woody becomes jealous of Andy’s latest favorite, space toy Buzz Lightyear. Although initially resentful and scheming, Woody eventually bonds and becomes a good loyal friend to Buzz. Although tempted by the path of least resistance, Woody always pulls through and chooses his friends and Andy. Now that’s a cowboy.

#9: Son Goku

“Dragon Ball” franchise (1986-)

This martial arts prodigy rivals Superman not just in awe-inspiring power, but in heart. An adaptation of the classic “Journey to the West,” the epic follows Son Goku, shipped to Earth to conquer it as part of an alien warrior race called the Saiyans. Instead, Goku bumps his head and is raised a sweet-natured boy by his adoptive grandfather. Fun, cheerful, and food-loving, Goku is intensely loyal and loving to his friends and family. Goku also shows awesome fighting abilities, winning against impossible odds time and time again. His very first transformation into the legendary Super Saiyan, one of the most iconic moments and character designs in animation. The legacy of the late Akira Toriyama, Goku ranks among the best animated characters of all time.

#8: Shrek

“Shrek” franchise (2001-)

It seems astounding now that Dreamworks ever considered the ultra-popular “Shrek” as the B project to the more prestigious “Prince of Egypt.” Among the many reasons for the film’s success, however, Shrek himself is definitely the main one. Down-to-earth but cynical, Shrek is an ogre who proudly embraces his outcast status. When he is chosen by Lord Farquaad to rescue Princess Fiona, however, Shrek finds himself falling for the princess instead. His journey towards self-acceptance and opening his heart to love and friendship is a satisfying arc to watch. This ogre has layers.

#7: Scooby-Doo

“Scooby-Doo” franchise (1969-)

Honestly, the whole Scooby gang should be on here, as all of them are iconic characters in their own right. But there is a reason why it’s called the Scooby gang. This massively successful Hanna-Barbera cartoon follows a group of friends and their dog in their van as they solve mysteries. With his ‘r’-laden speech and mannerisms, Scooby-Doo is a smart, loyal, if cowardly, dog with a great love for food, especially Scooby snacks. And of course, there is his unforgettable catchphrase. One of the most memorable talking dogs in all of animation, Scooby is an endearing and relatable character for kids and adults alike.

#6: Ariel

“The Little Mermaid” (1989)

One of the most popular and misunderstood Disney princesses, Ariel single-handedly launched the Disney Renaissance of the ‘90s. A teen mermaid, Ariel is curious, adventurous, but also rebellious and headstrong, longing to live on the shore despite her anti-human father’s disapproval. But when Ariel falls in love with Prince Eric, she decides to finally realize her dreams of becoming human. Although criticized for leaving home for a man she has scarcely met, Ariel’s agency in pursuing her goals is no less than inspiring. Her courage and even heroism undoubtedly make her one of Disney’s most beloved and iconic princesses.

#5: Genie

“Aladdin” (1992)

There will never be a friend like him. When street urchin Aladdin is tricked into being sealed in the Cave of Wonders by the nefarious Jafar, he finds rescue in a mysterious and powerful lamp. This lamp, of course, houses the powerful and pop culture-savvy Genie, voiced by the beloved late Robin Williams. With his rapid-fire speech, witty dialogue, and increasingly outrageous pop culture allusions and impressions, Genie is also loyal and compassionate, helping Aladdin and his friends out with his cosmic powers. He is one of the most lovable comic characters in animation.

#4: Homer Jay Simpson

“The Simpsons” (1989-)

What this legendary animated satiric sitcom would be without him, we don’t care to investigate. As a blue-collar worker, Homer embodies all the stereotypes of the dull-witted, beer-loving, and even violent American working-class father. But he also subverts them with moments of tenderness, loyalty, and even unexpected smarts and ironic wit. With iconic catchphrases such as “D’oh!” and gags like “Why you little,” Homer is an endless fount of comedy, voiced by the great Dan Castellaneta. As an American cultural icon, he along with his family have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

#3: SpongeBob SquarePants

“SpongeBob SquarePants” (1999-)

We can’t ever get enough of this sea sponge, it seems. Creator Stephen Hillenburg actually studied marine biology when he conceived of the series and character. Living in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob is cheerful, guileless, and optimistic, with shapeshifting abilities. SpongeBob was a big hit with children and teens, a big favorite of endless merchandising, and a new species of mushroom was even named after him. He is even a bit of a gay icon, with Hillenburg later clarifying that SpongeBob was asexual. SpongeBob is a good representation, all right: Of America itself, which loves this little guy.

#2: Bugs Bunny

“Looney Tunes” franchise (1930-)

What’s up, Doc? When it comes to the big leagues, there is no character as legendary as this crazy wabbit. An anthropomorphic hare, Bugs is a wacky trickster god straight out of mythology with a smart aleck attitude, a love for carrots, and a delightful penchant for drag. Originally voiced by the legendary Mel Blanc, Bugs has appeared in over 160 shorts and countless films, TV shows, and comics, more than any other animated character. Today, Bugs is Warner Bros.’ official mascot, and is the ninth most portrayed film personality with his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Very few are able to resist the charms of this rabbit.

#1: Mickey Mouse

“Mickey Mouse & Friends” franchise (1928-)

It’s really Mickey and Bugs, of course. But if we must choose, then Disney wins, as it usually does. There’s a good reason why this mouse and the company are inextricably linked, with Disney even referred to as the House of Mouse. First created as a replacement of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Mickey Mouse began as a cheerful but impish rogue in the seminal “Steamboat Willie.” Mickey was eventually developed into a soft-spoken, sympathetic, and good-natured mouse, caring and optimistic. His famous appearance in 1940’s “Fantasia” in “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” shows him at his most bumbling, but ambitious. Disney even lobbied to extend copyright law just to prevent Mickey from falling into the public domain! This little mouse has a big empire.

Which animated character do you believe deserves their place among the GOATs? Let us know in the comments down below!