essay on my favourite disney character

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My Favourite Cartoon Character – 10 Lines, Short & Long Essay For Children

Key Points To Note: Essay On My Favourite Cartoon Character For Lower Primary Classes

10 lines on ‘my favourite cartoon character: barbie’, a paragraph on ‘my favourite cartoon character: mickey mouse’, short essay on ‘my favourite cartoon character: chhota bheem’, long essay on ‘my favourite cartoon character: cinderella’ for kids, essay about my favourite ‘cartoon characters: tom and jerry’ for kids, essay on ‘my favourite cartoon character: doraemon’ for children, what will your child learn from this essay.

A child’s favourite cartoon character stays with them for a long time, which is why an essay on this topic is something that one cannot do without, in the sense that it forms a core memory, and there is just so much to say and write about the subject. Every kid loves to watch cartoons and has one favourite cartoon character they adore. However, young kids may struggle to write about their favourite cartoon characters or form meaningful sentences. We have some simple tips, references, and paragraphs to help them write an interesting essay on their favourite cartoon character and understand essay structuring.

Kids can talk for hours about their favourite cartoon character. However, when it comes to writing an essay, they may struggle with what to write. Here are some key points that will help them write a great essay on their favourite cartoon character:

• Give a brief introduction to the cartoon character.
• Briefly explain the plot of the cartoon series.
• Write about the role and characteristics of the cartoon character.
• Write why you like this character.

Barbie is one of the most loved cartoon characters by most young kids. Here are a few lines that will help in writing an essay for classes 1 and 2 students on Barbie:

• Barbie is the most popular fashion doll in the world.
• It was created by Ruth Handler and manufactured by Mattel Inc.
• There are many animated series, cartoons and films based on the life of Barbie, her family and her friends.
• I love to watch Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures and Barbie: Life in a Dreamhouse series.
• Barbie is a fashionable, sweet and intelligent girl.
• The cartoon series shows the life of Barbie and her many adventures.
• Apart from Barbie, some other important characters on the carton are Ken, Skipper, Stacie and Teresa.
• The animated series is full of humorous situations where Barbie and her family tackle different problems they face.
• I have two dolls, one Barbie and one Ken doll. I also have a barbie doll house.
•  I love Barbie because she is always helping her family and her friends in any situation.

There would hardly be a child or adult who doesn’t love Mickey Mouse. Here is a paragraph on the world’s most popular cartoon character:

Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse is an iconic cartoon character. From small towns to big cities, Mickey Mouse is a household favourite in the world. The pet mouse drawing that Walt Disney created inspired Mickey Mouse’s character; he was the first cartoon character in the world to speak. The cute little mouse is featured in many cartoon shows and movies. Even after decades of telecasting, those shows are still popular. Mickey, his friend Pluto, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse, etc., takes us on many fun adventures. The friendship and mutual love of Mickey Gang make the show popular. It teaches me that with our friends, we can overcome any trouble.

One of the favourite cartoon characters of Indian kids is Chota Bheem. Here’s an essay on this topic for young kids:

India is not far behind Western cartoons when it comes to creating fun and inspirational characters. Chota Bheem cartoon is a popular Indian cartoon show and character that I love the most. The show and characters take inspiration from the epic Mahabharat. However, it doesn’t follow the story of Mahabharat. Chota Bheem, together with his group of friends – Chutki, Raju and Jaggu, a monkey, teach us great things. They fight bad people together, destroy evil and stand for justice. Chota Bheem, though a kid, is very strong and intelligent. Through his intelligence, he helps everyone, even the bad kids who trouble him. Chota Bheem teaches us to be truthful, and bold, help everyone, fight evil and do good to everyone. The Chota Bheem cartoon show inspires me to be a good and smart kid like Chota Bheem.

This simple and easy essay will teach lower primary class kids the long sentence construction and structuring of essays:

Cinderella is the most popular princess in the cartoon world. The cartoon series is based on the folk tale ‘ The Little Glass Slipper’. There are many variations of the story of Cinderella in the world. The story is adapted into many books, films, and animation series. However, what I like the best are the movies and animation series made by Disney. Cinderella is often called a Disney princess.

Cinderella cartoon tells the story of a beautiful and poor girl. She lives with her evil stepmother and two sisters. Cinderella is very pretty with lovely long hair. Her gentle and loving nature makes everyone love her. But her family treats her very badly. Her step sisters are jealous of her beauty. So, her stepmother and sisters make her do all the housework. Even in the tattered clothes, Cinderella looks beautiful. The story talks about the magical meeting of Cinderella and the Prince. But they are separated, and the prince to find her, just has her glass slipper. And finally, through that slipper, Cinderella meets her prince and lives happily ever after.

I love the hopeful and positive story that inspires us to be always brave and good. Despite all her adversities, Cinderella never loses hope, sweetness, kindness and strength. She is cheerful even in her troubles. And through her strong spirit, she one day gets what she deserves, to be a princess. Even after becoming a princess, she doesn’t treat her family badly. Though a cartoon character, Cinderella teaches me to be always nice, polite, humble and hopeful. The message I get from watching Cinderella is that being nice and compassionate is not a weakness. Through their inner strength, good people can overcome any obstacle and become successful.

Writing essays on cartoon characters is a great way to teach sentence construction to young kids. Here is a short composition on Tom and Jerry for kids:

Tome and Jerry are the funniest of cartoon characters. The animation series shows the story of a pet cat Tom who has to chase out the naughty mouse Jerry. Jerry is always troubling Tom and stealing things from the house. Poor Tom is always trying to catch Jerry but always fails. Jerry, though naughty, is an intelligent mouse who at times, also helps Tom. And sometimes, even Tom helps Jerry when someone else troubles him. But soon, they are back to being enemies. The funny chase and run of these two characters is what makes this cartoon series stand out. Though Tom and Jerry are always fighting, their friendship is still evident. They teach me that we may fight with our friends, but when our friends need us, we should always be there for them.

Writing this essay presents a wonderful opportunity for children to express their views about their favourite character. Here is an essay on Doremon for kids:

I love to watch many cartoon shows. One of my most loved cartoon characters is Doremon. I love Doremon; though it is a Japanese animation character, I watch it in English translation. The story is about an intelligent earless robotic cat, Doremon. The robotic cat is from the 22nd century but comes back to the present time to help a young boy, Nobita Nobi. Nobita is weak in his studies and gets bullied all the time. Doremon protects Nobita, helps him in his studies and improves his life. I enjoy the numerous gadgets that Doremon carries. The friendship between the optimistic Doremon and cute Nobita teaches me to love all my friends.

As your kid writes a few lines on this topic, they learn to express their views, develop their sentence construction abilities, and improve their vocabulary. Through cartoons, kids learn many good things. When they are writing an essay on their favourite cartoon character, they get an opportunity to inspect those things in detail. Essay writing brings out their creativity, make them think about the topic and frames sentences in a structure. This helps your kid to improve their linguistic skills.

Kids have a good opportunity to visualise their favourite cartoon character and write down their feelings about that character when writing an essay about their favourite character. Essay writing helps in improving the writing skills of young kids.

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Essay on Favorite Cartoon Character

Students are often asked to write an essay on Favorite Cartoon Character in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Favorite Cartoon Character

Introduction to my favorite cartoon.

Cartoons are fun to watch. Many kids love watching them because they tell stories that make us laugh and think. My favorite cartoon character is Mickey Mouse.

Why I Love Mickey Mouse

Mickey Mouse is cheerful and always ready to help his friends. His big ears and red shorts are very famous. He goes on adventures and solves problems with a smile.

Mickey’s Lessons

Mickey teaches us to be kind and brave. He shows that even when things are tough, being positive can make a big difference. I learn a lot from Mickey.

Mickey Mouse is more than a cartoon. He is a friend who brings happiness and teaches important life lessons. That’s why he’s my favorite.

Also check:

• Paragraph on Favorite Cartoon Character

250 Words Essay on Favorite Cartoon Character

My favorite cartoon character.

Everyone has a cartoon character that they love the most. My favorite is Mickey Mouse, the cheerful and friendly mouse created by Walt Disney. He is not just a cartoon character but also a symbol of joy for children around the world.

Why Mickey Mouse?

Mickey Mouse is special because he is always happy and full of life. He makes me laugh with his funny voice and big ears. He is brave and kind, always ready to help his friends. Mickey goes on many adventures, and I learn a lot from his stories.

Mickey’s Friends

Mickey’s friends are just as fun as he is. There’s the smart Minnie Mouse, the funny Donald Duck, and the clumsy Goofy. They all live in a magical place called Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. I enjoy watching them solve problems together and have a good time.

Lessons from Mickey

Mickey Mouse teaches me to be happy no matter what. He shows that being kind to others is important. Even when things go wrong, Mickey never gives up. He finds new ways to fix problems and always stays positive.

In the end, Mickey Mouse is my favorite because he brings so much happiness. His adventures are exciting, and his heart is big. Whenever I watch Mickey Mouse cartoons, I feel like I can do anything with a smile. Mickey is not just my favorite cartoon character; he is my hero.

500 Words Essay on Favorite Cartoon Character

Introduction to my favorite cartoon character.

Cartoons are a fun part of many children’s lives. They are full of colors, stories, and characters that can make us laugh and sometimes teach us lessons. Out of all the cartoon characters, one holds a special place in my heart. This character is none other than the speedy and clever mouse, Jerry, from the “Tom and Jerry” series.

Why Jerry is My Favorite

Jerry may be small, but he is smart and always finds ways to outsmart Tom, the cat who is always after him. What I love most about Jerry is that he shows us that being small does not mean you cannot be strong or smart. He is quick, brave, and has a good sense of humor. He often helps his friends and even Tom when he is in trouble. This shows that Jerry has a big heart.

Lessons from Jerry

Even though Jerry is a cartoon mouse, he teaches us some important things. He shows us that we should never give up, no matter how big the problem is. Jerry faces a bigger and stronger opponent in Tom, but he never loses hope. He uses his brain to find solutions and this teaches us to think and act smartly in difficult situations.

Another lesson from Jerry is the importance of friendship. In some episodes, Jerry and Tom work together to solve a problem or defeat a common enemy. This tells us that sometimes we need to join hands with others, even if we do not always agree with them.

Jerry’s Adventures

The adventures of Jerry are exciting and funny. Each episode is a new story where Jerry tries to get cheese or helps other animals, and Tom tries to catch him. Their chase is full of funny traps and clever escapes. Watching Jerry’s adventures always puts a smile on my face and gives me a good laugh.

How Jerry Influences Me

Jerry has a big influence on me. He makes me believe that no matter how tough life gets, there is always a way out if you are clever and brave. He also makes me value humor. Being able to laugh, even when things are not going your way, is a powerful thing. Jerry’s character encourages me to be playful and enjoy the little moments in life.

In conclusion, Jerry from “Tom and Jerry” is my favorite cartoon character. He is more than just a funny mouse in a cartoon. He is a symbol of courage, intelligence, and good humor. Watching Jerry’s adventures teaches us to be smart, to never give up, and to value friendships. His character brings joy to many children and adults alike, and that’s why he will always be my favorite.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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OpEd: 5 Reasons Why Donald Duck is the Best Classic Disney Character

Out of all the classic characters to come out of Walt Disney’s animation studio, I believe none are as great as Donald Duck. While Mickey Mouse has always shone as the all-time recognizable and favorite icon–which is a role he deserves–no character deserves our respect and admiration more so than Donald.

ScreenRant offered their own reasoning, comparing Donald to Mickey, but I really think they got it wrong.

Sure, Donald is mostly known for his iconic speech impediment–Donald Duck was originally voiced by Clarence Nash and is now voiced by Tony Anselmo–, temper tantrums, and his screwups. Yes, he has a bit of a darker side, and we all laugh at how he goes insane as the world around him seems to intentionally work against him. Still, it is beneath that superficial cartoon exterior that we find the best of any Disney character.

Here are five reasons why I believe Donald is the best classic Disney character:

Donald Duck is the Most Empathetic Character

We all know what it is like to have the world seemingly work against us in one way or another. From having to change a tire in the middle of nowhere to kids misbehaving and fights with significant others, Donald is the one who deals with it all.

Donald is the one who has to deal with raising three kids on his own and find a way to have a girlfriend–a high-maintenance one at that–at the same time. Donald is the one who knows what it’s like to deal with terrible job after terrible job to make ends meet half the time. And the other half, Donald, is the one who fights against the world to try and start his small businesses.

He is also a mirror to remind ourselves of when ambition and frustration cause us to cut corners and treat people less than they deserve, of the times it seems like we have run out of all our good luck, and of the times when it seems like nobody can understand us–literally. We’ve all been there.

And the best part of all? By going through it all in his classic, cartoony way, he helps us laugh it off.

Donald Duck is an Army Veteran and WWII Hero

When the U.S. Army all but took over the Disney studio during the Second World War, Walt Disney’s team created some propaganda cartoons in which Donald Duck joins the army. He turns in his draft card like a good American, and while his dream was to become a pilot in the Army Air Corps (now the U.S. Air Force), he gets placed in the infantry. He gets deployed in the Pacific Theater and ends up becoming an Army commando, taking out an entire enemy airbase by himself.

In these shorts, I think Donald stands out from the others because he displayed his classic American bravery and patriotism. Something his friends never did.

Donald Duck Fights for Family

Sure, Mickey has Minnie, and we see Goofy take on more of a “family man” role in his post-war-era cartoons in Disney Channel’s  Goof Troop  and  Goofy Movie  films, but Donald Duck has been the one who has worked harder than any other classic character to build his own family and keep it together.

Without a single question, he takes in his three nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie.

He may have had an old-school, politically incorrect parenting style in the older shorts picking on his nephews half the time, but Donald still had their best interests at heart and will do anything for them. Besides, those mischievous kids knew how to throw it back and ended up deserving a spanking or two at some point (and taught me and every kid since why it is so important to move fast and look innocent.)

In Disney’s  DuckTales  reboot , Donald’s fight for family really came to the forefront. Rather than playing the Uncle that had them over every once in a while and liked to mess with them, Donald was a father in almost every sense of the word to Huey Dewey and Louie, and he learned to channel his anger into protective instincts.

Here’s a clip from the  DuckTales  episode, “What Happened to Donald Duck?” that defines it perfectly:

Donald Duck Goes to the Ends of the Earth for Daisy

As dedicated as he is to family, I see Donald as being equally dedicated to making Daisy a part of it. Since she was introduced, Daisy and Donald Duck have been portrayed far more realistically than Mickey and Minnie. Donald and Daisy fight. A lot. And while Donald is out juggling jobs, his nephews, and his overall lack of natural luck, he has a constant fear that one day, Daisy is going to leave him for someone better.

Yet, they continue to stand by each other, and Daisy continues to be a source of inspiration to Donald to keep bettering himself. Especially his tantrums. From him pretending to be a sailboat captain to undergoing a scientific experiment to rid himself of his hanger, Donald’s desire to keep Daisy around is best illustrated in the Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts on Disney+ .

Donald Duck is the Most Patient and Optimistic Character

Yes, he is. Mickey and Minnie see the world through rose-colored glasses, and Goofy–Walt love him–seems to live most of his life in blissful ignorance.

Forget about the temper tantrums for a minute and look at his legacy on a higher level. Donald Duck does not give up. Things always go wrong for Donald, whether he does something to deserve it, or it is one of those moments when the world just seems to work against him. Chip and Dale, for instance, personally brought down at least two of Donald’s jobs and stole from him countless of other times. Yet, again and again, we see him trying to do one thing: be happy and at peace! Every Donald-focused short begins the same way: Donald is smiling. Happy and relaxed.

I believe a person’s patience and optimism can only be measured by how much they are both tested. Mickey often has it way too easy compared to Donald, in my opinion.

Walt Disney’s Donald Duck serves as a constant reminder for all of us to be brave, keep searching, hold family close, and never give up no matter how great the odds are against you. That is why he will always be the best Classic Disney Character to me.

What do you think about Donald Duck? Where do you think he ranks among the other classic Disney characters? Let us know in the comments!

Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Inside the Magic overall.

• AV Undercover

The 50 best Disney animated characters of all time

From squeaky-clean mascots like mickey mouse to villains like maleficent, these are disney's most unforgettable stars.

It started with a mouse—and thank God they didn’t name him Mortimer. Walt Disney may have whiffed it with the name he originally proposed for Mickey, but his eye for character design was clear from the start. And it’s a tradition that Disney, as a company, has continued in the 100 years since Walt founded his studio. Of course, beautifully drawn characters would still fall flat without great writing to back them up, but Disney tends to excel there, too, with complex antagonists like Hades and protagonists worth cheering for, like Ariel. Here are our picks for the 50 best Disney animated characters of all time, from heroes to villains to sidekicks and everything in between.

As Disney celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, The A.V. Club marks the occasion with a series of lists, essays, and more.

Disney’s most famous sidekick ever, Pluto the Dog’s place within the fiction of the company’s legacy characters is interesting. He’s an animal that, unlike the animals around him, can’t walk and talk, which means he’s stuck being the pet of a giant, talking mouse and his friends. That’s undeniably weird, but there’s something in the weirdness that’s always worked, from Pluto’s gangly design to his ability to say everything without speaking at all. [Matthew Jackson]

Quite possibly the most effective Disney sidekick of the 21st century, and one of the company’s most famous ever in terms of sheer pop culture impact, Olaf the living snowman has become ubiquitous in the near-decade since arrived in theaters. Josh Gad’s voice, the character’s pull-apart design, and his sense of sheer versatility have propelled him to a prominent role in the sequel, a Disney+ streaming series, a permanent place in toy aisles everywhere and, of course, an endless string of appearances in holiday lawn displays. Not bad for a little guy who just wanted some warm hugs. [Matthew Jackson]

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The Cheshire Cat’s warning to Alice upon her arrival in Wonderland—“Most everyone’s mad here”—perfectly captures his persona: He’s mysterious, a little ominous, and completely untrustworthy. And he sells it all with that creepy, maniacal grin. Sterling Holloway’s playful voice acting in goes a long way in selling the Cheshire Cat as an unconventional sidekick who you don’t really want to stick around, but you also don’t really want to be without, either. [Jen Lennon]

As ’s resident “man-cub,” Mowgli (voiced by Bruce Reitherman in the original 1967 animated film) has to walk between two worlds, both emotionally and physically. He has to be a child of the jungle who’s also a scared little boy who doesn’t fully understand the rules of the world around him. Reitherman’s voice performance makes that work, but what really puts Mowgli over-the-top is the way his body seems to flop, float, and twist through the jungle like a near-indestructible piece of rubber. It adds to the sense of fun, which allows us to invest deeper in the drama of the story, a drama carried over into not one, but two live-action remakes. [Matthew Jackson]

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How wonderful is it when Jasmine tells the Sultan, Jafar, and Aladdin to get bent when she discovers them trying to decide the course of her life without any input from her? “I am not a prize to be won” is one of the all-time great Disney princess lines. It’s a very obvious and conscious attempt to modernize the Disney princess trope, but it works because it’s perfectly in line with Jasmine’s character. Throughout , she pushes back against the constraints that society has placed on her, folding in an empowering message in a way that feels natural. [Jen Lennon]

Walt Disney’s flying elephant spends most of the that bears his name reacting to things around him. He’s scared and sad when his mother is taken away, heartened by the use of his magic feather, and ultimately exhilarated by the weight of his own experience. It’s a largely passive role, made more passive by the character’s lack of dialogue, but Disney and his team of animation legends still managed to imbue Dumbo with a deep sense of empathy, and a design that’s made him a Disney parks mainstay for decades. [Matthew Jackson]

After the success of Robin Williams voicing the Genie in 1992’s Aladdin , the filmmakers behind tried to replicate that experience by casting Eddie Murphy as the fast-talking comedic foil Mushu. But unlike Genie, Mushu was invested with a deeper characterization that made him more than just a funny dispenser of quotable zingers (though he is very funny). Similar to Mulan, Mushu struggles to feel accepted—in his case, by his ancestors, who always made fun of him and treated him as an outcast. By helping Mulan save her entire country, Mushu and his loyalty to his friend-turned-heroic warrior proved them wrong. “Dishonor on you! Dishonor on your cow,” indeed, Ancestors. [Phil Pirrello]

Captain James Hook was already a well-known villain from storybooks and stage productions by the time Disney got ahold of him. Taking cues from J.M. Barrie’s original creation, Peter Pan’s nemesis is a foppish pirate whose outward bluster and cutthroat disposition belie a cowardly nature. It’s hard to say who he hates more, Peter Pan or the Tick-Tock crocodile who swallowed his hand (and hungers for another taste). He’s a more overtly comical character in the animated feature, and that sense of fun has propelled him to appearances in other Disney realms, including TV shows, theme parks, comics, video games, and more. [Cindy White]

Minnie was unfortunately back-burnered for most of her career, standing either in or alongside Mickey’s shadow. In recent years, however, the character has rightfully stepped out from that bygone, problematic status to come into her own in various corners of the Disney Industrial Complex. But for die-hard Disney fans, Minnie was always more than just Mickey’s lady friend. The queen of polka dots, with Polka Dot Day being her day, Minnie has become a style icon thanks to her consistently headlining an event during Fashion Week. Disney heads have seemingly embraced her symbolic status and what she means to their young audience. Now if they would only give her a birthday that isn’t the same day as Mickey’s. [Phil Pirrello]

Disney fans all over the world have a great affinity for the characters from Pooh Corner, especially Tigger. This literal one-of-a-kind charmer, famously voiced by Jim Cummings, is one of Christopher Robin’s most likable and enthusiastic pals. Ever since his first appearance in the 1968 short, “Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day,” he has emerged as one of Disney’s most popular and timeless creations. A standout star on both TV and in video games, as well as serving as a prominent fixture at Disney Parks, this bouncing eccentric is truly one of the best things to come out of the house that Mickey built. [Phil Pirrello]

One of the most-remixed characters in popular fiction, Peter Pan has a lot going on inside his perpetually young head, and is no different. On the outside, he’s the constant adventurer, a boy full of boundless confidence with an endless appetite for fun, but there’s something in the way the character looks at the world, and in the way Bobby Driscoll’s voice performance informs that worldview, that speaks to something deeper. The film might not hold up as well as other Disney classics, but Peter himself still stands out as a boy out of time, caught between two worlds and longing for pieces of both of them. [Matthew Jackson]

It’s not necessarily easy to make a film in which a guy imbued with the strength of the gods can realistically struggle, but mostly pulls it off, and that’s thanks in no small part to the guy in the title role. As the straight man in a comedic film in which he’s surrounded by soul-singing muses as well as Danny DeVito and Bobcat Goldthwait, Hercules has to both join in the fun and convince us that he really is doing his best to live up to impossible expectations. A memorable character design and a solid voice performance from Tate Donovan make that possible. [Matthew Jackson]

Aurora (aka Sleeping Beauty, aka Briar Rose) is best known as the star of a movie featuring one of Disney’s greatest villains: Maleficent. But Aurora, with a memorable assist from Prince Phillip, is able to defeat the evil queen (and her dragon form) due in large part to the princess’ virtuous grace and kindness. Despite the doom and gloom that literally surrounds her, the heart of remains steadfast in her optimism that anyone can have the wonderful future they deserve—if only they are brave enough to keep dreaming for it. [Phil Pirrello]

subverts the Disney Princess trope by embracing its titular heroine’s action-hero ability to find a solution to any problem. And if she can’t find it, she’ll make one. The fate and destiny of characters like Mulan often fall in the hands of some male savior, but Mulan wisely (finally) breaks with that stale and limiting tradition by given us a lead character just as strong, vulnerable, and capable as the men who would usually play her rescuer. The stakes for Mulan couldn’t be more personal, and therefore more emotional, as she fights to both save her people and preserve her unique status among them. [Phil Pirrello]

The living personification of a conscience in , Jiminy Cricket is arguably more well known (if not more liked) among Disney fans than the titular star of the movie he appeared in. Given the top-hatted charmer’s earnestness and wisecracker personality, it’s easy to see why his mark on pop culture feels deeper than the wooden boy he calls a pal. Soon after his debut in Pinocchio , Jiminy joined Mickey Mouse and Tinker Bell as company mascots—as his signature song, “When You Wish Upon a Star,” became Disney’s trademark anthem for generations. [Phil Pirrello]

Kind of like the song “Uptown Girl” but much, much better, the 1955 classic uses that timeless formula of a privileged girl falling for a scrappy, fun-loving, on-the-streets guy who shows her, to quote another Disney staple, a whole new world. And nearly 70 years and countless cultural watershed moments later, the movie still hits, thanks to the sweet chemistry between our lovebirds, some stellar animation and scoring, and one of the most famous first-kiss scenes in cinematic history. [Tim Lowery]

1963’s is somewhat of an outlier in the Disney canon. It falls somewhere in the middle—not exactly beloved, or completely forgotten among fans—but most die-hard Sword In The Stone -rs agree that one of its most memorable and effective components is the character of Merlin. An avid believer in “brain over brawn” throughout the movie, Merlin’s practical philosophy serves in welcomed contrast to the movie’s more magical trappings. It’s fascinating that a wizard as powerful as Merlin expounds often to his mortal charge, the once and future King Arthur, that magic can’t solve all of humanity’s problems. Sometimes the best and most effective solution isn’t the wave of a magic wand, he reminds, but rather using one’s wits. [Phil Pirrello]

Pixar struck gold with the two-hander approach to storytelling with Toy Story ’s Buzz and Woody. So it only makes sense that they would try to re-capture a similar dynamic in 2001’s , with Sulley and Mike. The former is like the Babe Ruth of collecting screams from children while the latter is his best pal sidekick/snarky coach. But it’s Sulley, with his now-iconic purple fur and gooey emotional center, who emerges as one of animation’s most interesting and likable heroes. With the help of the young human child Boo, Sulley realizes that even for a monster there’s more to life than trafficking in scares. [Phil Pirrello]

With Stitch, Disney delivered one of 21st-century animation’s most enduring troublemakers, a character who could believably be a villain but turns out to be both heroic and deeply loving in the end. But the creation of Lilo (voiced by Daveigh Chase) was arguably a tougher job, because she had to be both a cute little girl and a character capable of going toe-to-toe with both her big sister and a weird alien who may or may not be manipulating her as part of his prison escape. Lilo does all that and more, holding up her half of with ease. [Matthew Jackson]

is perhaps the ultimate mismatched romance, which means that the character of The Beast had to be Belle’s standoffish opposite from the beginning. But he also had to have the bearing, presence, and warmth to convince audiences that he was worthy of love in the end. Directors Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise and the entire animation team achieved that with flying colors. From his tusks to his fangs to his blue jacket and, of course, Robby Benson’s lovably gruff performance, Beast remains one of the world’s favorite Disney princes for good reason. [Matthew Jackson]

Character deaths don’t hit you more square in the feels than Mufasa’s. ’s noble patriarch, King Mufasa’s regal presence is brought to life with a mix of flawless animation and gifted voice work from James Earl Jones. Whereas his son, Simba, just can’t wait to be king, Mufasa simply is . The movie endears Mufasa to the audience early on through his loving parenting, especially with Simba, which makes Mufasa’s death at the hands of his duplicitous brother, Scar (Jeremy Irons), all the more heartbreaking. Mufasa’s demise is the stuff of Shakespearean drama, which is fitting given that Hamlet inspired much of The Lion King ’s story. But unlike that bleak tragedy, Lion King ’s familial strife has a very happy and rewarding ending, as Simba ascends to be the ruler of Pride Rock—stepping out from his father’s considerable shadow to pick up where his legendary dad left off. [Phil Pirrello]

One of the many factors that contributed to ’s blockbuster success in the summer of 1994 was its young hero, Simba. Voiced as an adorable cub by Jonathan Taylor Thomas of Home Improvement fame, Simba emerges as an untested prince who is quickly overwhelmed by what it means to be king when he witnesses his father’s death at the hands of his treacherous uncle. What may be the darkest parricide ever depicted in an animated film (sorry, Bambi ), the loss of Mufasa gives rise to Simba fulfilling his destiny to preside over his father’s vast kingdom. As cinematic origin stories go, they don’t get much more compelling or satisfying. [Phil Pirrello]

is an underrated 2009 entry into the Disney Princess Cinematic Universe. A lively, whimsical tale set during the Jazz Age, it centers on Tiana—a waitress and gifted cook in New Orleans who dreams of opening her own restaurant. The first Black Disney princess, Tiana is an inspired and inspiring character; a relatable and talented three-dimensional heroine—with hopes and dreams—who feels more grounded than her peers, despite the fact that her movie hinges on wish-making stars and a literal frog prince. Tiana’s journey as a young woman realizing and embracing her limitless potential presents a sobering truth to her young audience: “The only way that you can get what you want in this world is through hard work.” That’s not the usual messaging one finds in a Disney animated film, which just makes Tiana and Princess And The Frog all the more special. [Phil Pirrello]

If your heart doesn’t melt a bit each time the adorable (that is, Waste Allocation Load Lifter: Earth-Class) pronounces the name of EVE (that is, Extraterrestrial Vegetation Evaluator) as “Eva,” we’re … not sure what to tell you. This sci-fi romance, heavily influenced by the comedy of silent-era masters Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, is what we talk about when we talk about emotionally deep and mature Pixar fare. It felt like an instant classic when it premiered back in ’08, and its reputation rightfully hasn’t waned since (see its recent Criterion edition for proof). [Tim Lowery]

Perhaps the most egregious instance of Disney altering source material to make it palatable for a family audience, bears little resemblance to its mythological inspirations. This version of Hades, with his blue-flame hair and sharp teeth, is a fictional amalgam of the Greek god, the Christian devil, and a used-car salesman. It pains us a little to admit it, but James Woods’ take on the god of the underworld as a wheeling-dealing Hollywood agent was inspired, babe. It’s hard to separate his performance from the character’s popularity, and from the actor’s recent behavior, though we’re going to try our best. Because Hades is too much fun to be ruined by his voice actor’s silly off-screen drama. [Cindy White]

Sebastian is far more than a sidekick, or standard-grade comedic relief—he’s a charismatic scene-stealer dedicated to finding fun and fanfare in what Ariel deems woefully mundane. As the oceanic conductor opines in his : “We in luck here, down in the muck here.” From Ariel to Ursula, living under the sea wasn’t a walk in the park for anyone—Sebastian was the perfect foil, a mentor keen on reminding those around him to find gratitude in the nebulous muck around them. [Hattie Lindert]

In the midst of a post-Renaissance slump, Disney Animation played with some new dynamics for its early 2000s roster of feature films, and those dynamics were arguably never more successful than the one at the heart of . The story of a Hawaiian girl and her alien best friend, the film was never going to work without both title roles landing exactly right, and thanks to an instantly endearing design and wonderful voice work from co-director Chris Sanders, Stitch holds up his end of the bargain. Two decades later, he’s still one of Disney’s most delightfully strange creations. [Matthew Jackson]

Billy Crystal’s voice always felt suited for animation, and it found a particularly effective home in the form of Pixar’s one-eyed, green, spherical monster. One half of a dynamic duo that also includes John Goodman’s Sulley, Mike Wazowski’s joke-a-minute cadence is elevated and perfected by Crystal’s performance, and the character’s overall design makes him an immediately recognizable ball of joy. It’s no wonder remains one of Pixar’s best-realized film efforts. [Matthew Jackson]

Proving that there really is such a thing as a good billionaire—as long as he’s fictional, and a waterfowl—Scrooge McDuck is far more than just his habit of swimming through ludicrous piles of wealth. He’s also one of Disney’s single greatest engines for adventure stories, an inveterate globetrotting explorer who prides himself on being “smarter than the smarties” and “tougher than the toughies,” while also having a surprisingly warm spot in his miserly heart for family. [William Hughes]

For the last 30 years, Pixar has tried to do what Bambi (voiced by Donnie Dugan) did 80 years ago: Teach children about death. And is there a more infamous cinematic death than Bambi’s mother? Still, while the first 15 minutes of may take up a majority of the conversation, the rest of Bambi’s adventure is just as instructive. For all the animated features about growing up, few do so as poetically and curiously as Bambi. Returning to the character at any age, one can still see the world through Bambi’s eyes as environments change, romance blooms, and tragedy strikes. They’re all part of life, and for many, Bambi is the first to teach it. [Matt Schimkowitz]

Anna of Arrendelle is, in many ways, a traditional Disney princess trapped in a decidedly non-traditional Disney film. Her “villain” is her beloved sister; her handsome prince is (incoming spoilers for a decade-old movie) a narcissistic psychopath. And the greatest challenge she overcomes (in , specifically) isn’t some magical curse, but the same weight of despair that threatens to crush anyone who’s ever lost a cherished loved one. “The Next Right Thing” may not be a cheerful anthem like “Whistle While You Work,” but it lays out the strength of Anna’s character beautifully, as Kirsten Bell memorably voices her attempts to live through grief: “Take a step… Step again…” [William Hughes]

A lot of great singers have come through the doors of the Walt Disney Company over the years, but few command the level of power that Idina Menzel wielded when she burst into song as Elsa the Snow Queen. But it’s not just “Let It Go” that made Elsa an icon. Her design, her place within ’s magical sisterhood, and Menzel’s ability to balance quiet, reserved dialogue with her phenomenal pipes all came together to make the character unforgettable. [Matthew Jackson]

There are a lot of Disney characters who fit the mold of “cuddly best friend,” but Baloo the Bear might just be the godfather of them all, even if he wasn’t the first. Originated by Phil Harris in , Baloo’s position as the resident relaxation expert in that film placed him among the most lovable characters in Disney history, but the slow-moving bear wasn’t done. With TaleSpin more than two decades later, Baloo reached a whole new generation of fans in a whole new genre, while never losing his warm, calming vibe. [Matthew Jackson]

Disney’s first Princess may be one of their least dynamic. Aside from being best friends with any and all enchanted forest animals and getting along well with the Seven Dwarves, there isn’t much to Snow White’s character outside of the formative surface characteristics that would provide the template for future Disney heroines. But if there’s one quality of hers that stands out, it’s how she embodies kindness—a noble trait that generations of young audiences have embraced ever since premiered in 1937. [Phil Pirrello]

The song says it all: “If she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will.” This distinctive villainess even has the words “cruel” and “devil” right there in her name. What else would you call a vain, greedy fashion designer who kidnaps a litter of puppies so she can make a coat out of their hides? (We’re going to pretend the live-action retcon of the character never happened.) Legendary animator Marc Davis was inspired by a combination of Betty Lou Gerson’s dramatic vocal performance, stage actress Tallulah Bankhead’s mannerisms, and model Mary Wickes’ physicality in designing the character from , who can go from glamorously aloof to positively crazed in an instant. It turned out to be a winning recipe for creating one of the best villains of all time. [Cindy White]

Look, you’d sigh all the time too if you spent every day of your patchwork life putting up with Tigger’s high-volume bullshit. In a Hundred Acre Wood where everything is nigh-relentlessly nice and sunny, Eeyore the donkey is the cloud we all feel from time to time, that little voice that dolefully mutters “Thanks for noticing me” as our friends try to cheer us up. And yet, there he is, every day: Rebuilding his crappy, constantly-falling-down house, and showing up for adventures. Walt bless you, little guy: Here’s hoping the tail stays on this time. [William Hughes]

The debate over just what the hell is Goofy—Dog? Man? Both?!—will rage on long after we shed our mortal coils, but that’s just a testament to Goofy’s legacy. He’s been a load-bearing column of Disney’s empire since his first appearance in 1932’s Mickey ’s Revue , thanks to his slapstick brand of comedy and “aw shucks” good nature. Goofy peaked in 1995 with his underrated solo film, , which elevated the supporting player to leading man status in this charming, and (obvi) goofy animated musical comedy. A Goofy Movie spawned a film series that millennials still revere to this day—not bad for a guy that was originally conceived as a one-shot character named Dippy Dawg. [Phil Pirrello]

It’s rare for the comic relief character in a Disney animated film to also be its beating heart, but Dory pulls that feat off effortlessly in the Pixar classic . What she lacks in short-term memory she more than makes up for with her loyalty to Nemo, as she helps the little fish find what she doesn’t have: Family. “Just keep swimming” is more than just her mantra, it’s the thematic summation of the entire Oscar-winning film. With her hilarious dialogue and tragic backstory that makes it impossible for audiences not to root for her, Dory steals the movie while becoming one of Disney’s all-time best characters. [Phil Pirrello]

Every cowboy needs an outlaw, and Sheriff Woody’s is a spaceman. The perfect foil for Woody’s existential crisis, Buzz has been somewhat devalued in recent years due to misfires like . His features might be a little dated by modern standards, yet Tim Allen’s stern confidence and hilarious delivery (“You see the hat? I am Mrs. Nesbitt” is still the funniest joke Pixar ever produced) keep the character fresh and exciting. For as important as “When You Wish Upon A Star” was to the Disney past, “to infinity and beyond” became the de-facto slogan of Pixar, with Buzz’s mid-century futurism embodying the promise of Tomorrowland better than the movie that bears its name. If Cinderella is Disney’s past, ‌Buzz Lightyear represents its future. [Matt Schimkowitz]

Not only is Maleficent one of the best-designed animated villains ever in her original form—all severe lines and sharp angles, with the color scheme of a badly healing bruise—but when she transforms into a freaking dragon she’s even more intimidating. That’s two awesome villains for the price of one. She’s got the coolest accomplice too, a raven familiar named Diablo. As the powerful evil fairy who puts the “sleep” in (though it would be far worse if she had her way), Maleficent’s impact on the story is indelible. All because she wasn’t invited to one little christening party for a princess she didn’t even know. That’s spiteful on an epic level. Her plan for Prince Phillip is even more twisted. She locks him in a dungeon and intends to keep him there until he’s too old for Aurora, who will remain 16 for as long as she’s under the sleeping curse. The main lesson of the film should be not to piss off sorceresses with vindictive streaks. [Cindy White]

More than three decades after its release, remains a marvel of animation achievement, a beautifully orchestrated fairy tale that’s still considered one of Disney’s best. A big reason why is Belle, the Disney princess who blends compassion and strength with such skill that she enters a magical realm closed off from the world she knows, and is able to make it entirely her own. From Paige O’Hara’s voice performance to the character’s costuming choices and deeply expressive design, Belle is still a wondrous piece of animated power. [Matthew Jackson]

Sometimes, the right voice changes everything, and when Disney tapped Robin Williams to play the comedic sidekick in , they changed the whole landscape of animation in the process. Williams’ unforgettable performance— still just as good or better than many of his best live-action roles—and indelible presence made Aladdin a megahit, and inspired generations of established celebrities in comedy and beyond to get into the recording booth for some voice acting of their own. [Matthew Jackson]

The Disney Renaissance kicked off in 1989 by introducing fans to one of animation’s most beloved and iconic Disney Princesses: Ariel. Gifted with a beautiful voice—but burdened with a desire to be part of our world, despite her mermaid trappings—Ariel is torn between living under the sea and where the people are. Her Faustian bargain with the cruel sea witch Ursula leads to some of Disney’s most vivid musical numbers and visuals, however, as Ariel learns the whole “be careful what you wish for” thing. Thankfully, that lesson comes with a brief sojourn on land (free of fins) and a forever happy ending. [Phil Pirrello]

Although the upcoming slasher paints a painstakingly different picture, Disney’s Pooh embodies so much of the whimsy, bumbling uncertainty that defines childhood, and lingers throughout life. Although he wasn’t the most dramatic nor the loudest of the coalition that called the Hundred Acre Wood their home, even Pooh’s simplest musings—from the nonchalant acceptance of “Oh, bother” to the unabashed self-acceptance of “I am short, fat, and proud of that”—felt eternally wise and purposefully instructive. [Hattie Lindert]

Scar, exquisitely voiced by Jeremy Irons (channeling his Oscar-winning role as Claus von Bülow in Reversal Of Fortune ), is a classic example of a memorable character design meeting inspired casting. Irons relishes the hell out of every scene in , bringing Shakespearean theatrics to moments like King Mufasa’s tragic death. Who can forget him menacingly quipping, “Long live the king,” as he digs in his claws and then tosses Mufasa to his death? He even gets a big musical number in which he gets to sing the line, “Yes, my teeth and ambitions are bared. Be prepared!” Simply iconic. No notes. [Cindy White]

Mickey Mouse is 95 years old, and while he doesn’t have the same cultural hold now that he did in his heyday, he still might be the most famous cartoon character of all-time. Not bad for a guy who started out as a replacement character for Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks’ Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. With an iconic look splashed across Disney’s entire empire, an unforgettable voice, and a warmth that has persisted through decades of design changes, Mickey remains an enduring pop culture juggernaut. [Matthew Jackson]

The standard bearer for all Disney princesses, (voiced by Illene Woods) encapsulates the entire Disney dream in her brief 75-minute animated classic. Her rags-to-riches story of footwear folly remains a Disney animation high-water mark, creating a host of tropes that would become staples of imagination. Fairy godmothers, evil step-sisters, and Prince Charming would all become powerful icons of the animated fairy tale, but only one character can claim them as her own. That she does all this and still retains potency is the magic of Disney and, more importantly, the character. No wonder her castle precedes every Disney movie to this day. She is the Disney princess. [Matt Schimkowitz]

There are so many with ’s Sheriff Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), that it’s easy to miss his most striking feature: His personality. Sure, he’s the perfect representation of outdated cultural trends at the onset of a new entertainment revolution, but Woody’s also a downright unpleasant character. He’s condescending to the toy box rank and file, fearful of outsiders, and downright cruel to those who threaten his status. Over four movies, though, Woody’s evolution from ornery pull-string cowboy to caring playmate is one of the series’ most accomplished tricks. Every time Pixar pulls him out of the toy box, the dream factory finds new ways to play. [Matt Schimkowitz]

Say what you will about Ursula the Sea Witch from , you’ve got to admit she had style. All she really wanted was to complete her fabulous ensemble with a necklace (containing the voice of a certain mermaid princess), a crown, and a trident. The fact that these baubles happen to come with the incidental perk of ruling the entire ocean is just a bonus. She positively lives for helping poor, unfortunate merfolk who have nowhere else to turn. Her magic may come at a steep price, but she always gives her clients a choice. And with the help of her hench-eels Flotsam and Jetsam she has eyes everywhere, so it would be wise not to get on her bad side. Not that she has one, darling. [Cindy White]

Nobody likes a winner—those smug, smiling bastards for whom everything seems to naturally go right. And so, let’s raise a toast to Disney’s great born loser, Donald Duck. A victim of circumstance, but more often just a victim of himself , Donald is the apoplectically angry heart of Disney’s animated canon, an obnoxious, hilarious, greedy, jealous, and above all else relatable collection of deeply human foibles existing primarily to serve as the plaything of an uncaring universe. Gifted with one of the great “don’t try this at home” voices in animation history (provided for 50 years by Clarence Nash, and now by Tony Anselmo), Donald is the all-important drip of bitter pettiness that keeps the whole Disney stew from turning more saccharine sweet than it already is. In a universe of smiling victors, he’s the guy who gets the perpetual short end of the stick: It makes his rare wins all the more satisfying—and his near-constant failures a hilarious and necessary part of the Disney cartoon machine. [William Hughes]

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60 Best Disney Characters Of All Time, Ranked

For 100 years, Disney has been delighting fans of all ages with its animated shorts, films, and TV series. The magic of Disney is in the beautiful animation, the unforgettable songs, and of course, the memorable characters.

With princesses, talking animal sidekicks, and malevolent yet endearing villains, there is something for everyone. Throughout the studio's history, it has been the exquisitely drawn and voiced characters that make Disney's output so memorable, moving from films into a wider world of merchandising and theme parks.

Everyone has their favorites, and each character has something unique to offer, but which ones are the best of the best? Who stands the test of time and represents the iconic animation company to the entire world? Well, there may be hundreds to choose from, but we wished upon a star, dove deep into the animated archives, and ranked the 60 very best Disney characters of all time.

In a largely nonsensical film, Alice helps to ground us in the real world throughout the 1951 technicolor fever-dream that is "Alice in Wonderland." When she follows a white rabbit down a hole, Alice's life is turned upside-down as she is transported to a strange land filled with singing flowers, a never-ending tea party, and a malicious queen hellbent on cutting off her head. In addition to her iconic look, Alice is memorable for her innocence and "curiouser and curiouser" nature, which perfectly taps into the childlike joy of discovering new things and creating imaginary scenarios.

59. Chernabog

Actions often speak louder than words, and that is the case for Chernabog, the giant winged demon from "Fantasia." Appearing in the final segment, "Night on Bald Mountain/Ave Maria," Chernabog summons demons and the damned for a night of terror in an unforgettable sequence. Chernabog cuts an imposing figure atop the mountain and is undoubtedly one of the scariest Disney characters. It's actually a little shocking when you compare him to other baddies from Disney's animated catalog — no one else brings the same supernatural scariness to a Disney film like Chernabog does.

58. Quasimodo

The lead of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," Quasimodo is the perfect character for anyone who has ever felt like an outcast and the shining example of never judging a book by its cover. Despite his appearance, the kind-hearted bell-ringer of Notre Dame is gentle and compassionate to everyone he meets. Mistreated from the moment he is born by the evil Frollo, it is difficult not to feel sorry for Quasimodo, particularly when he is ridiculed and mocked by the crowds at the Feast of Fools. While his love for Esmeralda is unrequited, Quasimodo remains loyal and kind to her, making him one of the more complex Disney characters.

Emperor Kuzco is one of the rare Disney protagonists who — in the beginning, at least — isn't particularly likable. His arrogant and conceited behavior goes largely unchecked, and he thinks nothing of destroying Pacha's entire village to make a summer home for himself. However, he is forced to change his ways when he is turned into a llama and Pacha is the only one who can help him. Packed with zany humor, "The Emperor's New Groove" is easily one of the funniest Disney films, and charting Kuzco's journey to becoming a better person is hugely satisfying.

56. Mirabel

An ordinary girl surrounded by the extraordinary, Mirabel is the only member of the magical Madrigal family not blessed with a gift . Where her family members can lift incredible weights or talk to animals, Mirabel is left frustrated, trying to find her place. However, she ends up being hugely important to her family's story, helping her sisters to realize their full potential and reuniting the estranged Bruno with the Madrigals. Even with her magical surroundings, Mirabel's journey in "Encanto" is deeply relatable since everyone has experienced the struggle to find themselves and where they fit in.

55. Pinocchio

It's hard not to be charmed by the little wooden puppet who just wants to be a real boy. One of the many things that make Pinocchio stand out as a character is that he isn't perfect, and he has to learn life's lessons the hard way. To become a real boy, he must discover the value of being brave, truthful, and unselfish — a journey that takes him to some of the darkest and scariest places imaginable. Even when he makes mistakes, we constantly root for Pinocchio, and seeing his wish fulfilled is a truly magical moment.

54. Pocahontas

An underrated Disney princess, Pocahontas is one of the characters that doesn't get the attention she deserves. While there are major deviations from the real historical figure in "Pocahontas," Disney's version of the character is a kind, pure-hearted woman with deep respect and love for the natural world around her. With her people under threat from foreign invaders, Pocahontas shows her bravery by standing between the warring groups to protect her forbidden love, John Smith. What also elevates Pocahontas is that she chooses loyalty to her people instead of love in the end — a refreshing change to many of the princess narratives.

The benevolent snowman with a penchant for summer and warm hugs, Olaf is one of the many highlights of "Frozen," proving that when it comes to memorable sidekicks, Disney is unbeatable. Olaf represents all that is good and pure in the film, and his eternal optimism is undeniably infectious for audiences. His unwavering loyalty to Anna, in particular, is epitomized in the line "some people are worth melting for," demonstrating that he is willing to sacrifice everything to save those he loves. Olaf's naïveté and his often unintentional hilarity make him one of the best Disney characters in recent years.

The best friend of the indelible alien Stitch, little Lilo Pelekai makes an impression on everyone she meets — whether good or bad. Lilo is irrefutably unusual, and her eccentricities see her cast out by the other children she encounters. Lilo has been through a lot in her young life, and this manifests in her frequently cheeky and disobedient behavior. However, her experiences have also made her kind and generous, allowing her to see the good in the equally mischievous Stitch, even when no one else does. The two are a perfect double-act in "Lilo & Stitch," and it is refreshing to see Disney feature a very different kind of young protagonist.

Baymax's entire raison d'être in "Big Hero 6" is to help people, and with his calming and cuddly exterior, it is impossible not to fall in love with him. Programmed to be a personal healthcare companion, Baymax's innocent and nurturing spirit helps protagonist Hiro when he is grieving the death of his older brother, Tadashi. Initially subservient to Hiro, Baymax develops his own unique personality, and even makes a huge personal sacrifice to save his young friend. He's instantly able to diagnose and treat medical conditions, not to mention the fact that he's a superhero. It's obvious: Everyone needs a friend like Baymax.

Played by the incomparable Awkwafina , Sisu of "Raya and the Last Dragon" is a vibrant and fun-loving goofball. In other words, she defies all the expectations of what the anticipated "last dragon" is for the fictional realm of Kumandra. In this world, dragons are the stuff of legend and the only ones who can save the warring tribes from the dark forces that prey upon their disunity. What makes Sisu so likable is her warmth and honesty. She's naturally self-deprecating and doesn't believe she is the mythical savior that the people have been expecting, meaning she has to discover her strengths and believe in her abilities to become the hero Kumandra needs.

49. Flynn Rider

The man who can say it all with a smolder, Flynn Rider – also known as Eugene Fitzherbert — is the dashing thief in "Tangled" who becomes involved with Rapunzel on a quest to find her true identity. Sharing similar personality traits with characters such as Han Solo and Robin Hood, Rider is a lovable scoundrel who turns his back on his previously selfish ways when he falls in love with Rapunzel. The "Rider" persona is a bit of a facade after all, and when this is taken away, there is a kind-hearted, loyal, and protective man underneath who is easy to like.

48. Cinderella

This princess sometimes gets a bit of a bad rap for her potentially rash decision to marry a man she barely knows, but this is hardly uncommon in Disney. Putting that aside, Cinderella is independent and strong-willed, despite living much of her life in servitude. To be able to tolerate the abuse from her stepsisters and the wicked Lady Tremaine demonstrates her tremendous strength of character. Despite all this, she remains optimistic about her future and defiantly kind to the women she shares a home with, refusing to give in to the cruelty that surrounds her.

The titular human lead of "Raya and the Last Dragon" is not your average Disney princess. She is depicted as headstrong, resilient, and wise beyond her years. When her homeland is threatened by dark forces, Raya heads off alone in search of the fragmented dragon gem and the creature that can restore peace to Kumandra. Raya's biggest hurdle to overcome is her lack of trust in others, making her the perfect counterpart to Sisu the dragon, who always looks for the good in people. In the end, unity and cooperation are what save the day, and seeing a character who accepts her flaws, learns, and grows to become a better person is hugely aspirational.

46. Thumper

Not only is Thumper exceptionally cute, but he proves to be a great friend in "Bambi," helping everybody's favorite deer find his feet – in more ways than one – in the forest. Far from being relegated to the status of sidekick, this little rabbit has a big personality, and his cheeky, mischievous ways make him instantly likable. While he may occasionally say things that get him into trouble, he is also surprisingly wise, remembering and repeating the sage advice his father gave him, "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all."

45. Aladdin

The streetwise urchin may not be well-liked by the market owners of Agrabah, but Aladdin isn't just a thief for the sake of it. He steals for survival and to help those like him who go without food. The plucky protagonist shows his selflessness throughout his 1992 film but most crucially in the closing moments of the movie when he chooses to use his final wish to free Genie from his lamp prison. Where all the other masters had given in to their wants and wishes, Aladdin makes a huge personal sacrifice for the good of someone else — a true display of what a great character he is.

Initially painted as the antagonist of the film, Maui later proves to be a valuable asset in "Moana," teaching the title character all she needs to know about wayfinding. While he may be boisterous and overconfident, the shape-shifting demigod also shows his human side when the truth of his tragic childhood is revealed. The moment we start to see through the facade of Maui is when we start to fall in love with him. His solo song, "You're Welcome" is easily one of the catchiest Disney jams in years, and the character is definitely one of Dwayne Johnson's very best performances.

While she has her off moments in "Frozen" — such as her willingness to marry a man she just met — Anna is another very different Disney princess, with her endearingly awkward personality making her one of the studio's most relatable characters. Anna is loyal to those she loves and determined to see the good in people, especially her sister, Elsa. Her downfall is perhaps being too trusting, something she learns the hard way when Hans' true character is revealed. But she remains determined and unwavering in her devotion to her sister, sacrificing herself to save Elsa in the most selfless act of true love.

In "Wreck-It Ralph," we meet the lovable bad guy who just wants to be a hero. Ostracized by the other characters in his game, we instantly warm to Ralph as he embarks on a perilous journey to win a medal and become a hero. Ralph's motivations are undeniably a little selfish in the beginning, and his carelessness sees him unwittingly destroying several games in the process. Through his relationship with Vanellope, however, Ralph learns that being a hero is more than just having a medal, and by the end, he proves himself worthy to us all.

41. Queen of Hearts

While this indomitable villain has very little screen time in "Alice in Wonderland" — and doesn't appear until the film is almost over — she makes a huge impression in just a few scenes. Even though the tyrannical queen spends much of her time trying to decapitate Alice, her huge personality makes her one of the most memorable Disney villains . Prone to temper tantrums that see her turn as red as the roses she insists upon having her gardeners plant (or else), the Queen of Hearts is a larger-than-life and unpredictable character who remains one of the highlights of this quirky masterpiece.

As the youngest of seven sisters, Ariel is much happier playing by her own rules, frequently defying her father in favor of exploration and adventure. Ariel is obsessed with everything in the human world and longs to be "where the people are" more than anything. She is the archetypal Disney princess: headstrong, independent, and a loyal friend to every fish and creature she encounters. For anyone who has particularly overbearing parents or a lot of siblings, Ariel's drive to carve out her own story will undoubtedly resonate — even if she does spend a large portion of the film unable to express herself. On a grander scale, it was Ariel and "The Little Mermaid" that kicked off a renaissance for the House of Mouse, leading to an amazing period where Disney made some of the best movies in the studio's history.

As unlikable and brutish as Gaston might be, he is also such a silly caricature that he's enjoyable to watch. Surrounded by sycophants whose sole purpose is to tell him how great he is, Gaston's unwavering belief that he is a perfect specimen is strangely admirable. Gaston is physically imposing, exuding confidence and swagger with remarkable ease. Perhaps the greatest thing about this "Beauty and the Beast" character is how he succeeds in being believable both as a heartthrob and as a man so detestable that an actual beast is seen as a more viable romantic option for Belle. As the song says, "my what a guy, that Gaston."

On top of being the person that belts out the unforgettable "Let It Go" — the best song in the "Frozen" series – Elsa is a surprisingly complex Disney character with a lot going on underneath the surface. With her powers repressed from a young age, Elsa grew up in isolation and without the opportunity to explain the reason to her sister, Anna. The lesson to learn from "Frozen" is that forcing someone to hide their true self is never going to end well, and the moment when Elsa is finally able to use her powers is almost as liberating for the audience as it is for her. Her self-realization and awesome, icy powers also kicked off an entire franchise that's dazzled and delighted audiences for years.

Like any young kid, Simba is a little overconfident, believing that whatever trouble he gets into, his father will always be around to protect him. Of course, we all know how this one goes: When Mufasa is tragically killed, Simba retreats into a self-imposed exile, ridden with guilt over the death of his father. We go on this journey with Simba across "The Lion King," experiencing all of life's changes through his eyes as he learns from his past and takes his rightful place as ruler. Through Simba, Disney gives us a deeply relatable coming-of-age film that speaks to everyone, making him easily one of the best characters.

Taught from a young age that hard work will allow her to achieve her dreams, Tiana toils away in "The Princess and the Frog," working several jobs to buy her own restaurant. Despite being turned into an amphibian after she kisses Prince Naveen — who has himself been transformed — Tiana never loses sight of her goals. While she does find love along the way, it's never her sole motivation. What sets Tiana apart is that she shows that dreams can't always just come true with a spell. Sometimes they require a lot of determination. This, she has in abundance — and that makes her truly aspirational.

35. Hercules

With a legendary name that has echoed through the ages, Hercules' journey from zero to hero gives inspiration to us all as he learns to embrace who he is and become the demigod he was born to be. More than his physical strength, Hercules is notable for his optimism and drive to prove himself. It's great to see a character who is powerful but not overly arrogant and is open to change. As Hercules realizes that being a god isn't all about saving damsels and destroying demons, he becomes a better person.

Mulan is an undoubtedly progressive character, carving out an entirely new identity as she disguises herself as a boy to fight in her father's place. Prior to this, Mulan is expected to bring honor to her family by marrying well and bearing children. However, this is thrown into disarray following a disastrous meeting with the Matchmaker. Incredibly loyal to her family, Mulan defies all expectations by going off to war, demonstrating her incredible emotional strength as well as her physical prowess. Mulan proves, perhaps more than any other character, that there is more to a princess than first meets the eye.

If you can overlook the fact he tries to have the heroic Hercules murdered when he is a baby, Hades is a pretty likable villain and certainly one of the most charismatic ones. Unlike many of the Disney villains, Hades doesn't seem to particularly revel in his job — in fact, most of the time he loathes it — and relies on his irreverent and sardonic wit to make the days just a little easier. The fast-talking Lord of the Underworld, played by James Woods , is one of the most hilarious and memorable parts of this film, and we love him for it.

32. Vanellope

If there's one thing we know for sure, it's that Disney loves an outcast, and Vanellope von Schweetz from "Wreck-It Ralph" is one of the very best. An aspiring racer in the candy-coated game "Sugar Rush," Vanellope wants to be victorious behind the wheel, but more importantly, she wants to win the love and respect of her fellow citizens. Due to her glitch, she is treated poorly, mocked, and ostracized by the other racers. Vanellope learns to embrace her glitch and use it to her advantage, providing a valuable moral that it is okay to be different and that the things that set you apart can be your superpower.

Voiced by the legendary Eartha Kitt, this unforgettable villain from "The Emperor's New Groove" is obsessed with taking the throne away from the narcissistic Emperor Kuzco, hatching several madcap plans to achieve this. What makes Yzma so wonderful — and the perfect adversary for Kuzco — is that it never seems like she will succeed in her nefarious plans, yet it is so fun to watch her try. The best of all these is her idea to turn him into a flea, put him inside a box, mail the box to herself, and then smash it with a hammer ... before realizing she could just poison him to save postage.

30. Ratigan

As the villain in the hugely underrated "The Great Mouse Detective," Professor Ratigan is another excellent entry into Disney's extensive catalog of baddies. Ratigan's plans are wonderfully zany, involving an elaborate kidnapping plot to replace the Queen of Mousedom with a robotic counterpart. Played by horror legend Vincent Price in one of his best movies , Ratigan is one of those rare villains who is so delightfully charismatic that you actually kind of want to see him succeed. Snappily dressed and adorably devoted to his sassy pet cat, Felicia, no list of best Disney characters would be complete without the "world's greatest criminal mind."

Few villains are as nasty (and downright evil) as Frollo in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," and it's almost surprising that Disney managed to get away with a character like him in one of their movies. Extremely layered and complex, Frollo's dogmatic views driven by his piety see him commit several heinous acts including murder, bribery, and genocide. The most terrifying thing about him is his complete lack of humanity, and despite the fact he has almost no redeemable qualities, he is undoubtedly one of the most effective Disney villains.

Although ably assisted by the demigod Maui, Moana is one of the rare Disney princesses who doesn't need to be saved by a man, and her adventurous spirit and determination prove that she is more than capable of fending for herself. As the daughter of the chief of Motanui, Moana finds herself torn between a sense of duty to the island that looks to her for leadership and the mysterious, undeniable pull of the ocean. Her strength to see things through is one of her most admirable qualities, making her one of the most aspirational Disney characters.

With her head buried in a book and a strong desire to see the world beyond the confines of her small village, Belle is a character who instantly resonates with audiences. As she rebuffs the advances of the loutish Gaston, Belle is sometimes lauded as a feminist icon – something that the live-action remake leans into even more. The hero of "Beauty and the Beast," Belle's ability to see the good in everyone, even her would-be captor, shows that she has a kind nature, but she's also outspoken and determined to stand up for those she loves. The passivity of some of the earlier Disney princesses is now a distant memory, and Belle is one of the characters who ushers in this change.

26. Captain Hook

While there are certainly more terrifying villains than Captain Hook, few have his style and showmanship, and this is what earns him his place as one of the best Disney characters. There is an element of the theatrical to this mustache-twirling pirate, who is frequently out-witted and out-maneuvered by everyone from the impish Peter Pan to a tenacious crocodile with a personal vendetta against him. Captain Hook is a character who relies more upon slapstick than scares, but his humorous antics are what set him apart from many of the other villains.

In a film where it seems every character is competing for the limelight, somehow the dim-witted and lovable Kronk is the one that stands above everyone else in "The Emperor's New Groove." As the loyal assistant to the comically conniving Yzma, Kronk's hapless and easy-going nature makes him the perfect henchman, as he seems willing to do whatever is asked. Rather than being a nodding sycophant, Kronk's willingness to follow Yzma seems to stem from a genuine desire to help people, even if they happen to be on the "wrong" side. Few Disney sidekicks are popular enough to earn a spin-off movie, but Kronk is one of them — a testament to how great a character he is.

He may be the gloomiest inhabitant of the Hundred Acre Wood, but that only makes Eeyore more lovable. His downbeat outlook on life provides a particularly stark contrast to the effervescent Tigger and the optimistic Pooh, but all good friendship groups need that person — or donkey, in this case — to provide balance. While Eeyore can be pessimistic, he fully embraces this and is perfectly content under his rain cloud. With his trademark drawling voice, Eeyore can always be relied upon for a witty aside and to help out his "Winnie the Pooh" pals when they need him, and that's why we love him — just as he is.

23. Rapunzel

In contrast to the source material, the Rapunzel we meet in "Tangled" doesn't need to be saved by the handsome prince, and as long as she has her trusty frying pan in her hand, she is more than capable of saving herself. When she finally leaves the confines of her tower, we see her experience the whole gamut of emotions, including fear, regret, and immense joy at finally being free. This joy is infectious, encouraging Flynn Rider to open up to her and be vulnerable for the first time. The best thing about Rapunzel is that she never pretends or tries to be perfect, which makes audiences love her even more.

Although a certain mouse and the princesses having long dominated Disney sales, a little blue alien called Stitch arrived and became, according to The Hollywood Reporter , "among the most sought-after Disney personalities in terms of merchandising." Stitch remains one of the most popular Disney characters, with his adorable face available on everything from clothing to plush toys. The power of Stitch was evident from the very beginning, with the genius trailers seeing the alien gatecrash several iconic Disney moments . Continued in the film, Stitch's cheeky and mischievous personality — and his adorable friendship with Lilo — easily cemented him as a favorite.

Often overlooked because she isn't part of the princess pack, Megara from "Hercules" is one of the best female characters in Disney history. According to an interview in Deseret News , voice actress Susan Egan was inspired by actresses such as Barbara Stanwyck, a perfect match for Megara's snarky and cynical personality. Many of Disney's female characters can be quite naive when it comes to love, but Megara is very different — having experienced heartache, she has a very low opinion of men and she always makes her feelings very clear. Her iconic quote — "I'm a damsel, I'm in distress, I can handle it" — perfectly sums up what makes her so brilliant.

Pluto is the lovable canine companion of Mickey Mouse and a notable entry on this list as he is one of the few who doesn't speak. This doesn't hold him back, however, and along with the likes of Goofy, Donald, and Minnie, he's been a staple of the Sensational Six's adventures since 1930. Pluto is usually a very good boy, but that doesn't stop him from getting into plenty of mishaps — something that is perfectly encapsulated in one of his defining shorts, 1934's "Playful Pluto." The magic of Disney's animators is how they can imbue a character like Pluto with so much personality, and that's why he has been consistently popular for more than 90 years.

As the bounciest "Winnie the Pooh" character would tell you himself, "The most wonderful thing about Tiggers is I'm the only one." And there certainly is only one Tigger. With his boundless energy, Tigger frequently gets on the wrong side of some of the other residents in the Hundred Acre Wood, but he also proves himself to be a loyal friend with a heart as big as his bounces. Tigger's confidence is admirable and he approaches all of life's challenges like he's already mastered whatever task lies ahead, something we can all aspire to.

18. Minnie Mouse

It may be her boyfriend that gets all of the attention, but Minnie has also been there from the very beginning, with her first appearance in 1928's "Steamboat Willie." In the earlier adventures, Minnie frequently played the role of the damsel in distress, however, she has since evolved to become more multifaceted. Minnie frequently acts as the voice of reason and isn't afraid to speak her mind when someone is being mean. A fashion icon, a symbol of femininity, and ultimately just a kind and sweet character, there's so much to love about Minnie Mouse.

17. The Evil Queen

As much as we can pretend to like the protagonists more, the villains in Disney films are often vastly more interesting — something that stems back to the one who started it all, The Evil Queen from "Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs." Obsessed with vanity, the Evil Queen (voiced with delicious malice by Lucille La Verne) sets a very high bar for all the villains that would follow. The Evil Queen is incredibly sadistic, willing to kill Snow White to be the fairest of them all. The scene where she transforms into a twisted old hag remains one of the most terrifying things Disney has ever produced.

What Piglet may lack in bravery, he makes up for in loyalty, and whether he wants to be there or not, he will always show up for his friends. One of the loveliest things about the characters in "Winnie the Pooh" is that they are all flawed, yet they bring something to the table and have their moments to shine. Piglet may be timid, but he has a huge heart, demonstrated in "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" when he gives up his beloved house to Owl — proving that no one is too small to make a difference.

15. Tinker Bell

As a sidekick to Peter Pan, this sassy fairy shows a whole lot of personality by actually saying nothing at all. Pairing an adorable appearance with a bit of an attitude, Tinker Bell is one of the few side characters who has managed to transcend the original film she appeared in, going on to be a star in her own right with a separate franchise. In "Peter Pan," Tinker Bell is depicted as hot-headed, jealous, and prone to tantrums. Rather than these traits making her unlikeable, they give her a bit of an edge, making her stand out against the other female protagonists.

14. Daisy Duck

It takes a special kind of person to put up with Donald Duck's bursts of anger, but Daisy Duck is somehow able to hold her own. While her demeanor is distinctly calmer than Donald's, Daisy occasionally reveals a bit more of her diva side and has been known to show some anger as well, making them a great match. Daisy (mostly) succeeds in keeping Donald in check and frequently reprimands him for his outlandish behavior, as demonstrated in the 1945 short "Cured Duck." Daisy might not have as many appearances as some of the other Sensational Six, but she's a great character and the pairing of her and Donald is perfect.

13. Cruella de Vil

She may have murderous intentions towards a group of puppies, but there is no denying that Cruella has style, and like all the best villains, she knows how to make an entrance. From her penchant for fashion to her maniacal laugh, Cruella is a character who steals every scene she is in with her sadistic flair, and somehow, we still come out of it liking her. With the character reimagined by Glenn Close in 1996 and Emma Stone in 2021, Cruella's popularity has only grown, but it is Betty Lou Gerson's original iteration in the 1961 "101 Dalmatians" that earns her a place on this list.

12. Donald Duck

If Mickey Mouse's cheery personality is a little too wholesome for you, then Donald Duck – the angrier and edgier character — might just be your favorite. Often speaking completely unintelligibly, Donald is prone to fiery fits of rage, and this is something that provides not only endless entertainment but the perfect counterbalance to the other Sensational Six members' personalities. With appearances in more than 100 films, Donald's popularity surpassed Mickey for a long time, and while the power of the Mouse won in terms of brand recognition for Disney, Donald has remained a beloved favorite since the beginning.

Voicing two fast-talking animated characters just three years apart, Eddie Murphy made a huge impact both as Donkey in "Shrek" and Mushu the dragon in "Mulan." Disney has given us countless memorable sidekicks over the years , but thanks to the incomparable vocal stylings of Murphy, Mushu is one that became a fan favorite. What sets Mushu apart is that he isn't just there to assist Mulan (even though he does succeed there), but he also has a personal journey — trying to prove himself worthy to the ancestors. To see a side character with a complete arc is incredibly rewarding and helps elevate Mushu above the rest.

10. Maleficent

Appearing in 1959's "Sleeping Beauty," Maleficient is the undisputed Queen of Pettiness, cursing the infant Aurora because she doesn't get invited to the christening party. Voiced by Eleanor Audley (who also plays the underrated wicked stepmother Lady Tremaine in "Cinderella"), Maleficent has all the dramatic flair and iconic lines associated with the very best screen baddies . Throughout the film, the "Mistress of All Evil" is already the embodiment of everything wicked. Still, the climax of the film sees her take on a terrifying dragon form, which is a pretty difficult move to top.

9. Timon & Pumbaa

Perhaps it's bending the rules slightly to include this double-act, but they work so perfectly as a duo that it is impossible to separate them. This unlikely friendship between a meerkat and a warthog, and their inclusion in "The Lion King," provides twice as many laughs compared to some of the other Disney sidekicks. Both Timon and Pumbaa found themselves outcasts from their respective groups, but fortunately, they also found each other. Together they live an easy-going life, sharing their "problem-free philosophy" with other misfits, including Simba. Both are hilarious in their own ways, and their open-heartedness to others who find themselves with no family is delightful to watch.

The image of Mickey Mouse may be the thing most recognizable as the Disney brand, but you could argue that Goofy is responsible for two of the sounds most associated with the studio — his signature guffaw and the Goofy holler. Much like the "Wilhelm Scream," the Goofy holler has become a stock sound effect, used as a Disney easter egg in some of their other films, including "Cinderella" and "Home on the Range." Fans love Goofy for his slapstick style and the charming way he brushes off all the scrapes he gets into with his cheery disposition and iconic laugh.

7. Winnie the Pooh

When it comes to the characters from the Hundred Acre Wood, it is clear that the one who stands above them all is the titular honey-loving bear: Winnie the Pooh. Described as "a bear of very little brain," Pooh spends his days mostly in search of honey, and it is his kind-hearted nature and devotion to his friends that makes us fall in love with him. Pooh's approach to life is distinctively calm and laidback, and whatever trouble he or his pals may get into, he is often the one to lead the way when it comes to finding a solution.

Something Disney fans realize as they get older is that sometimes the villains are simply the more interesting characters, and Scar is certainly one that falls into that category. His sarcastic nature — and particularly his observation, "I'm surrounded by idiots" — makes him not just relatable but oddly likable. Despite committing the truly evil act of killing Mufasa, Scar is a fascinating and charismatic figure . His actions are hard to justify, but the bitterness and jealousy he feels towards Simba, who stands between him and the throne, are certainly understandable. As well as being an amazing character, there is a strong argument that Jeremy Irons is perhaps the most perfect piece of casting in a Disney film, with his smooth and suave tones sounding like they were made for this character.

Teaching us the important lesson to not "underestimate the importance of body language," Ursula the Sea Witch is the one who reigns supreme when it comes to Disney's villains. The larger-than-life character has personality in abundance, as well as one of the best songs in "Poor Unfortunate Souls." With the ability to shapeshift and conjure all kinds of black magic, Ursula is not only powerful but a very successful villain — as her haunting garden of doomed souls proves. Her success also hinges on her powers of persuasion, and she oozes confidence and charisma. Voiced by Pat Carroll and with a look inspired by the drag queen Divine, Ursula is a truly unforgettable villain.

4. Jiminy Cricket

With seemingly everything getting in the way of Pinocchio's quest to become a real boy, it requires a special kind of sidekick to steer him in the right direction. Fortunately, the living puppet has got Jiminy Cricket, who acts as his conscience, confidant, and guide as he navigates all that the world is throwing at him. A wisecracking sidekick is now a staple of Disney films, and Jiminy Cricket is the one who started it all. Even though he acts as Pinocchio's conscience, Jiminy often makes mistakes himself and learns from them, and it is this sense of fallibility — as well as his natural wit and charm — that makes him one of the greatest. Plus, his big song, "When You Wish Upon a Star," is the theme song for Disney itself.

3. Sebastian

"The Little Mermaid" may be full of memorable characters, but the one who takes the prize is Sebastian the crab. The impossible job of keeping Ariel in check, as well as making sure the controlling King Triton is happy, is a lot for one crab to take on. Fortunately, Sebastian is someone who throws himself into whatever task he is given — from conducting an undersea orchestra to escaping from a voracious chef — and he does it all with good humor and unwavering loyalty. Sebastian is a fantastic character and clearly one that the studio knew would be a fan favorite, as he has not one but two incredible songs in the film: the charming "Kiss the Girl" and the unforgettable "Under the Sea."

2. Mickey Mouse

As Walt Disney himself famously said, "It was all started by a mouse." And of course, that mouse is now one of the most recognizable figures in popular culture. The significance of Mickey is not to be ignored, and Walt's memorable words suggest the idea that something huge — as the Disney brand would become — could all start from something incredibly small. Making his debut in 1928, Mickey has transcended his film appearances to become an icon and an image that is completely synonymous with the Disney name. In terms of his personality and character, Mickey would perhaps be a bit further down the list, as his best moments are often due to his pairing with characters such as Donald or Goofy, but in terms of cultural impact, there is no one like Mickey.

When it comes to Disney characters, there aren't many that tick every single box ... except for the Genie. Genie is not only an amazing character but also has a big influence on Disney films more broadly. The 1990s in particular saw the studio steer towards casting well-known comedians or stars of the time, and this is partly due to the success of Robin Williams in "Aladdin."

The importance of Robin Williams in creating this character cannot be understated. "Aladdin's" co-director, Ron Clements, told Variety they had "ended up with an enormous wealth of material" thanks to Williams' improvisations and ad-libs. Clements recognized the significance of Williams' performance, saying, "Robin changed the way animated films were perceived." The true testament to the power of a character is whether the film would be as good without them, and in the case of the Genie, he doesn't just steal the film, he is the film.