Top 10 Disney and Pixar Male Role Models

“The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000)



A devoted family man driven by the desire to do what’s right no matter the circumstances, Pacha is the salt of the earth through and through. In spite of Emperor Kuzco’s selfish wish to destroy his family home, Pacha can’t bring himself to leave the young ruler stuck as a Llama forever, and even risks his life in order to help him. While it would have been easier to let him get eaten by jaguars, Pacha proves that one should always strive to do the right thing, even if that means helping those who sometimes don’t deserve it.

“Robin Hood” (1973)



This furrier incarnation of the famous archer may downgrade the evils of the wicked Prince John, but there’s still plenty to like when it comes to this fox. In a bid to save his beloved Marian, as well as the rest of the citizens under King John’s tyrannical rule, Robin rallies other outcasts to stand up for what’s right. We’re not saying that you should be encouraged to steal, but giving to those less fortunate than yourself is an age-old virtue that should not be forgotten any time soon, something the Merry Men actively encourage.

“The Lion King” (1994)



Sure, Rafiki was the one who knocked Simba back to his senses, but by far the greatest source of inspiration to the future king of Pride Rock was his father. Wise in both life and death, Mufasa taught his son, and by extension us, about the circle of life, what it means to be a ruler, and that he will never be truly alone. Even from beyond the grave, his potent words manage to rouse Simba into accepting responsibility. While we can never truly escape the mistakes of our past, it doesn’t mean we should cower away from facing them head on. Besides, who are we to disagree with the voice of James Earl Jones?

“Tarzan” (1999)



Aside from showing us how to get into great physical shape, the lord of the apes also stands as a great example of how you can still grow to be an exceptional human being no matter the environment you were raised in. Despite growing up amidst gorillas, Tarzan never turns down the opportunity to educate himself to the modern world. However, he never forgets where he came from and never hides who his true family is. His everlasting pride and love in his unorthodox origins in some ways make him more of a man than most.

“Tangled” (2010)



Not even smouldering good-looks and a talent for thievery can help anyone escape their misdeeds forever, even someone like Flynn Ryder. After finding himself on an epic adventure with the beautiful and curious Rapunzel, he soon finds her radiant nature enrapturing him. As a result, he slowly learns that not only is it good to dream, but it’s never too late to be true to yourself and make up for past mistakes. Nobody is perfect, but if a career criminal like Flynn found it in himself to sacrifice anything for the woman he loved, what excuse do the rest of us have?

“Ratatouille” (2007)



Speaking of dreams, this little rat blew everyone out of the water when he went on to defy all expectations with his passion for cooking. Despite having the drive and talent needed to become a well-renowned chef, even by Paris standards, he was constantly halted due to the fact his species is considered vermin. Of course, this didn’t stop him from trying, with his eventual success serving as a great metaphor to never stop pursuing your life’s goal, and that talent can come from even the most unlikely of people.

“Aladdin” (1992)



He’s one jump ahead of the breadline and the one that introduced us all to a whole new world. Despite coming from nothing and being regarded as a street rat by many, Aladdin went on to not only win the heart of the Princess Jasmine by just being himself, but showed that it’s not the wealth and power that make you a Prince. When faced with hunger, he still gave what he had to the less fortunate, and when given the choice, he still risked his future with Jasmine to give freedom to Genie. With such selflessness, we’d say Agrabah is in good hands.

“Atlantis: The Lost Empire” (2001)



He many not look like a hero, but as we soon learn, you don’t need to be built like a brickhouse to show true bravery. Obsessed with finding the lost city of Atlantis, Milo’s journey takes a rather dark turn as he soon finds himself having to deal with betrayal, violence, the supernatural, and saving the chieftain’s beautiful daughter. It’s through these ordeals that his frailness fades and shows that you don’t need muscles in order to stand up for what’s right. Having ancient weaponry probably helped, though.

“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1996)



No one in Disney has had it harder than this guy. Misshapen, hidden from the world, and deceived by the cruel Judge Frollo, Quasimodo’s life looked like it would be confined to isolation and misery. However, in spite of all these hardships, his spirt refuses to be quashed. He still seeks to journey out and experience the world, he still sees the good in people even when they abuse and ridicule him. Heck, he even lost out on the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda and yet was more than happy bless her relationship with Captain Phoebus. Granted, Phoebus is a swell guy in his own right, but there’s just no beating Quasi.





Before we reveal our number one pick, here are a few honourable mentions.



Hiro Hamada

“Big Hero 6” (2014)







Kristoff

“Frozen” (2013)







Woody

“Toy Story” (1995)

“Hercules” (1997)



Wonder boy sure has come a long way. Born to gods yet raised by humans, Hercules spends much of his life struggling to find a place to fit in, something that sends him down the path to try and become a true hero. Along the way, he finds himself tested by issues such as fame, romance, heartbreak, and a literal deal with the devil. Through all this, he eventually matures and comes to realise that in order to become a hero one has to learn self-sacrifice, as well as embrace all facets of their past. Both his deeds and ideals speak volumes, making Herc one Disney character all guys can respect.