The Ultimate Ranking of the Top 25 Cartoon Characters of All Time

Immersed within the vast realm of entertainment, one can discover an array of imaginative voices and mediums that serve as extensions of the human creative spirit. While we may revel in the intensity of a gripping drama or the grandeur of an action-packed live-action spectacle, there exists a unique realm of nostalgia and timelessness reserved exclusively for animation. Cartoons, ingrained in the fabric of both childhood and adulthood, provide a visual feast that transcends generations. Throughout their extensive history, these animated marvels have birthed an illustrious lineage of iconic characters and captivating personalities.

Within this vibrant landscape, cartoon characters have ascended to the status of celebrities in their own right. From an abundance of merchandise to their unwavering charm, these animated embodiments have firmly cemented their place in popular culture and beyond. Despite the daunting task of selecting the crème de la crème, we embark upon the challenge of bestowing well-deserved recognition upon 25 of the greatest cartoon characters ever created. Spanning both new and old, join us as we present our meticulously curated ranking.

 1.  Finn and Jake — Adventure Time

There is a debate surrounding the relevancy of cartoons today, suggesting they may have lost their charm. However, contemporary cartoon characters have undergone a significant transformation, featuring intricate character dynamics, innovative animation styles, and captivating storylines. A prime example of this evolution is Adventure Time, which premiered in 2010 and captivated audiences for an impressive span of ten seasons. This animated series solidified the status of Finn The Human and Jake The Dog as an iconic duo, securing their place in the esteemed Hall of fame for cartoon characters.

 2.  The Belchers — Bob’s Burgers

The cast of characters in Bob’s Burgers has become widely recognized in popular culture. This comedic show is incredibly entertaining, featuring characters that strike a chord with both adults and young adults. While cartoons are often associated with childhood, Bob’s Burgers breaks that mold by serving as a remarkable bridge between different audience demographics, thanks to the relatable Belcher family. Furthermore, we must acknowledge the “memeability” of these characters and the animation itself. Whether it’s Tina’s dancing or Bob Belcher’s mere presence, these moments are simply perfect for generating hilarious and shareable memes.

 3.  Rick and Morty — Rick and Morty

When it comes to discussing popular culture and brand influence, few can rival the far-reaching impact of the sitcom Rick and Morty. Since its debut in 2013, the show skyrocketed to immense popularity, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. The unforgettable duo of Rick, the eccentric scientist, and Morty, his adventurous grandson, have solidified their status as iconic cartoon characters, embarking on thrilling interdimensional journeys in the pursuit of scientific knowledge. However, recent controversies have compelled the show to contemplate significant transformations and adaptations.

 4.  The South Park Crew — South Park

Adult comedy infused with adorable cartoon characters? We’re definitely on board. It’s nearly impossible for anyone who’s been even remotely aware of popular culture to miss a South Park character from a mile away. Cartman, Kenny, Kyle, and Stan are pure comedic genius. The brand’s influence extends beyond the television screen, with clothing, posters, and fan art becoming integral aspects of its iconic status. The main cartoon characters have undoubtedly achieved legendary status in the realm of adult comedy.

 5.  Betty Boop — Betty Boop

Let’s take a trip down memory lane and appreciate some classic gems. Old-school cartoon characters hold an everlasting charm. Among them, Betty Boop stands out as one of the most captivating animated characters ever brought to life. Her unique visual appeal sets her apart, making her truly one-of-a-kind. With an innocent appearance coupled with a pin-up girl style, she exudes a vintage and slightly mischievous aura, effectively establishing a blueprint for similar characters in animation. Since her debut in 1930, Betty Boop has shone as the star of numerous projects, further cementing her status as an enduring icon.

 6.  The Jetsons — The Jetsons

Famous families have always been a popular theme in the realm of entertainment. When it comes to renowned animated families, it’s nearly impossible to overlook The Jetsons, a futuristic family navigating their lives in a world far ahead of its time. This animated sitcom, which debuted in 1962, holds a truly vintage charm. Despite running for only three seasons, the show and its memorable characters left an indelible mark on the history of animated storytelling.

 7.  Strawberry Shortcake — Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake stands as a prime example of an incredibly well-branded cartoon character. In recent times, the vintage aesthetic of a strawberry shortcake has experienced a resurgence in popularity, becoming a sought-after and trendy concept among people. This newfound fascination has led many to revisit the beloved old cartoon. The perfect blend of nostalgic waves and irresistibly adorable animation solidifies Strawberry Shortcake’s deserving spot on this list of iconic characters.

 8.  Dora the Explorer — Dora the Explorer

Dora has become an embodiment of her own journey. Dora the Explorer took on the challenging role of guiding young children to solve problems and navigate their way through adventures. The show itself is captivating due to its highly interactive nature, but it is Dora who truly leaves a lasting impression. Her presence as the face of the show adds a memorable touch to the overall experience. Such is the popularity of Dora the Explorer that it even inspired a live-action movie adaptation titled “Dora and the Lost City of Gold,” released in 2019.

 9.  The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Let’s give a round of applause to Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo! This group, famously known as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, has achieved iconic status in the realm of cartoons and animation. These four crime-fighting turtles reside in the sewers of New York City, showcasing their impeccable martial arts skills while sharing a deep love for pizza.

 10.  Popeye — The Popeye Show

It’s remarkable how a spinach-devouring sailor managed to captivate audiences for countless years. Popeye may not possess the narrative complexity or extensive character development found in some cartoons. In fact, he maintains consistent habits and mannerisms throughout his existence. Nevertheless, he remains an instantly recognizable character, evoking a clear image in everyone’s mind at the mere mention of Popeye.

 11.  Casper the Friendly Ghost

Casper the Friendly Ghost has undergone numerous transformations within the realm of entertainment. Starting from the original animated show to the remarkable live-action films showcasing the endearing ghost, Casper has left an indelible mark on multiple generations of young individuals who have fallen in love with his character. Casper’s impact transcends the conventional notion of ghosts and the paranormal as fearsome entities, as he presents himself as an adorable white apparition who defies expectations. Casper the FRIENDLY ghost challenges and reshapes our beliefs, illustrating that even supernatural beings can possess warmth and kindness.

 12.  Peter and Stewie Griffin — Family Guy

Family Guy, an adult comedy show that first aired in 1999, continues to retain its irresistible charm in popular media. Despite featuring a diverse cast of characters, it’s Peter Griffin and Stewie who truly elevate the show to new heights. Voiced by the talented Seth McFarlane, Peter, the central character, and the intelligent and charismatic Stewie bring a whole new level of entertainment to the table. Their sharp and impactful punchlines, along with their widespread presence as memes on social media, solidify their positions as some of the greatest cartoon characters in history.

 13.  Courage the Cowardly Dog — Courage the Cowardly Dog

Courage the Cowardly Dog, despite being primarily targeted towards children, delved into deep, dark, and unsettling themes that resonated with audiences of all ages. The eerie nature of this character added a unique layer of intrigue and drew in diverse viewers. Courage, a timid canine, resided in a desolate area with his human companions, Thea and Lionel. Through Courage’s endearing nature and Lionel’s persistent attempts to rid themselves of him, audiences found themselves rooting for the courageous pup, empathizing with him, and ultimately becoming his most ardent supporters.

 14.  Snoopy and Charlie Brown — Peanuts

The holidays throughout the year hold a special place in our hearts, filled with cherished memories. When it comes to encapsulating significant life moments and festive occasions, no other cartoon characters do it quite like Snoopy and Charlie Brown. From their iconic merchandise and the unforgettable theme song to the dedicated theme park at Knotts Berry Farm, Charlie Brown and Snoopy exude a certain “it” factor. The animation may be modest and sporadic, yet it possesses a unique charm that is truly extraordinary. However, it is the profound emotions stirred within us by these two characters that have left an indelible mark on the childhoods of families all around the world.

 15.  Garfield — Garfield and Friends

When it comes to subjects in animation, animals have an inherent charm that captivates us. Among the countless cartoon cats out there, Garfield reigns as one of the most renowned. With his sly smile and mischievous expression, Garfield swiftly comes to mind when contemplating popular cartoon characters. In fact, any sighting of an orange cat instantly brings Garfield to our thoughts. Since the debut of Garfield and Friends in 1988, this feline has remained a prominent figure, starring in multiple animated shows and movies, including an upcoming live-action film. Garfield’s enduring popularity solidifies his status as an iconic character in the world of animation.

 16.  Buggs Bunny — The Looney Tunes

The Looney Tunes hold a prestigious position in the world of animation, consistently captivating popular and mainstream media. Amidst the array of memorable characters within this franchise, one bunny stands out with an extra sparkle. Bugs Bunny, a charismatic and delightfully unpredictable character, holds a special place in our hearts. Over the course of his numerous appearances in various forms of entertainment, audiences have grown fond of Bugs Bunny’s chaotic yet endearing nature. His on-screen presence guarantees a good time, evoking a sense of comfort and anticipation for the enjoyable antics he brings along.

 17.  Phineas and Ferb — Phineas and Ferb

During the 104 days of summer vacation, there’s no better company to have than Phineas and Ferb. First airing on Disney Channel in 2007, the beloved show is now eagerly anticipating a reboot that has fans buzzing with excitement. These animated brothers, the geniuses of our generation, embark on intricate, complex, and utterly outrageous adventures that defy imagination. Through their escapades, Phineas and Ferb have come to represent the epitome of a dream summer for children, captivating audiences with their on-screen exploits.

 18.  Scooby-Doo — Scooby-Doo

Scooby-Doo, with good reason, stands as the face of the franchise. The Mystery Gang, comprised of Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scooby, forms a close-knit group of friends and a canine companion, dedicated to unraveling paranormal mysteries, often dismissed as merely meddling kids. While every member contributes to the franchise’s triumphs, Scooby takes center stage as the ultimate icon, embodying the essence of it all.

 19.  Ash Ketchum and Pikachu — Pokémon

International origins and widespread recognition cannot be overlooked in this context. Ash Ketchum and Pikachu take the spotlight as the beloved protagonists of the renowned Japanese animated adventure series, Pokémon. This franchise has captured the hearts of fans from all around the globe, and the enduring friendship between Ash and Pikachu has become an emblem of our childhoods. Their iconic status extends beyond the screen, manifesting in various forms such as merchandise, cosplay, fan art, and more. The indelible memories we forged growing up alongside these two characters are truly unforgettable, firmly securing their rightful place on this esteemed list.

 20.  The Powerpuff Girls — The Powerpuff Girls

Narrowing it down to just one Powerpuff Girl for this list would be impossible. These adorable little superheroes collectively steal our hearts. Bubbles, with her gentle and cheerful nature, Buttercup, the feisty and strong-willed one, and Blossom, the level-headed leader of the team, together form The Powerpuff Girls. These cartoon characters not only possess a visually appealing aesthetic but also embody the essence of badass superheroes, offering a delightful blend of fun and heartfelt family dynamics. Additionally, the prospect of a potential live-action film leaves us all intrigued, eagerly anticipating how it will unfold.

 21.  Tom and Jerry — Tom and Jerry

Tom and Jerry are an inseparable duo, each complementing the other in the most delightful way. Their enduring rivalry forms the perfect foundation for this iconic cartoon. The wild escapades they embark on are nothing short of extraordinary. The cat-and-mouse chase they engage in, both in the game and in reality, has garnered a massive fanbase. Despite not uttering a single word, their distinct personalities shine through brilliantly on screen. If you haven’t yet experienced the live-action movie showcasing these two, consider it a clear indication to do so. Naturally, the classic show, Tom and Jerry, stands as an enduring masterpiece.

 22.  Fred Flintstone — The Flintstones

The Flintstones is a household name that resonates with everyone, except those who live under a rock. This animated comedy sitcom, dating back to 1960, depicts the lives of a Stone Age family, providing viewers with an exhilarating experience. Leading the charge in this iconic franchise is none other than Fred Flintstone, whose face and name stand out as the epitome of recognition. From cereal boxes to clothing, commercials, and even vitamins, The Flintstones successfully transcended the boundaries of Bedrock, catapulting themselves into the limelight.

 23.  Mickey Mouse — Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

Disney’s illustrious legacy boasts an impressive array of cartoon characters that have captivated audiences throughout the years. Yet, when it comes to widespread popularity and instant recognition, none can rival the iconic status of Mickey Mouse. Mickey Mouse has become synonymous with the Disney franchise itself, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment world. From the early days of Steamboat Willie to contemporary shows like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Mickey’s endearing face has adorned countless mediums. The brand attached to this beloved animated mouse solidifies his position as one of the greatest cartoon characters of all time.

 24.  The Simpsons — The Simpsons

Comprised of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and baby Maggie, The Simpsons stand as the quintessential family of animated television, with each character playing an indispensable role. It comes as no surprise that this beloved show has enjoyed an impressive run of 13 seasons, enriched by an abundance of memorable celebrity guest appearances. The credit for this remarkable success is attributed to the dynamic interplay among these five iconic yellow characters seated on the couch. The Simpsons, renowned for their outrageousness and comedic brilliance, remain an animated force that will forever retain their allure and charm.

 25.  SpongeBob SquarePants — SpongeBob SquarePants

Undoubtedly, SpongeBob SquarePants reigns as the epitome of iconic cartoon shows and characters. This beloved series has undergone evolutions over time, yet SpongeBob remains eternally etched in our hearts, evoking waves of pure nostalgia. Whether it’s Plankton’s relentless pursuit of the secret Krabby Patty formula or the hilarious antics of SpongeBob and Patrick, which push Squidward to the brink, audiences have joyfully immersed themselves in this show for decades. All of this stems from the irresistible charm, boundless energy, and comedic brilliance of one endearing sponge residing in the vibrant depths of Bikini Bottom.