Top 10 Iconic Cartoon Characters of All Time

Betty Boop first came to screens in animator Max Fleischer’s “Talkartoon” series. But thanks to her rapidly rising popularity, she soon had her own show. By representing a more sensual side of female cartoon characters, Betty has appeared in some of the era’s most risqué animations. You wouldn’t see Minnie Mouse in situations like this...

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob, that’s who! Bringing countless laughs to kids and adults alike, this yellow sea sponge can now stand shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the best cartoon characters. With a love of jellyfishing, fry cooking and bursting into song, he’s also got an unforgettable laugh and an irresistible aura of positivity we can’t help but find entertaining.

As one of the poster boys of cartoons in the ‘80s and ‘90s, Optimus Prime is the wise yet kickass Autobot leader that believes freedom is the right of all sentient beings. This transforming truck believes in this freedom so strongly, he’s willing to give his life for it while battling the evil Decepticons.

Created by Charles M. Schulz, “Peanuts”’ bald protagonist is meek, insecure and unable to kick a football even if his life depends on it. Still, it’s for these very reasons we can’t help but root for the little guy, and Charlie Brown’s since become a model for great cartoon characters everywhere. Well, he and his dog Snoopy, who’s an aerospace safety mascot after all.

Known for their use of slapstick and screams, this furry duo has done pretty much everything you can think when it comes to cartoon violence. However, it’ll almost always end with the little mouse Jerry outsmarting his feline foe Tom with a whole assortment of household weaponry. Without forgetting their several Oscar wins, the Tom and Jerry series also features one of the longest-running rivalries in American cartoon history and goes to show that the world will never tire of cat videos. Ever.

One of the most famous animated dogs ever; Scoobert ‘Scooby-Doo’ is a member of Mystery Inc. This group of teens, which includes Scooby-Doo’s owner, Shaggy Rogers, spends their time investigating crimes involving supernatural monsters. What we love most about this Great Dane is that despite his usually cowardly demeanor, the canine hero always manages to save the day. Besides, anyone who’s friends with Batman has got to make the list.

“The Flintstones” dominated our screens with its blend of comedy, touching family issues and a dinosaur-filled world. As the breadwinner, grumpy husband and over-protective father, Fred Flintstone is our favorite Bedrock resident. Always getting into some sort of trouble, and then getting out of it in the most ridiculous ways, Fred’s also known for his appetite, family loyalty, and booming voice.

It’s tough to single out one Simpson family member, since together they comprise our favorite animated family. But we decided to go with Homer for the sheer amount of laughs he’s provoked over the years – though he’s followed closely by Bart. Homer isn’t necessarily the dad everyone wishes they had: he’s fat, lazy, and a drunk; but boy-oh-boy is he entertaining! Though he often fails, this faithful husband and father still makes us smile every time we see him.

He’s the face and heart of Disney. From his time in black-and-white to his wizardly ways in “Fantasia,” Mickey Mouse has made his way into his own shows, various spin-off movies and even video games like “Kingdom Hearts.” With fellow cartoon icons Goofy, Pluto and Donald Duck backing him up, Mickey will always have a special place in animation history.

- Alvin and the Chipmunks
- Popeye
- Rocky and Bullwinkle
- Garfield
- Stewie Griffin
- Eric Cartman

Whether he’s missing that left turn at Albuquerque, munching on carrots, or dressing as a woman, Bugs is recognized and loved by all. He’s also got a stellar band of friends and foes too numerous to name, though we will give a shout-out to Daffy Duck, who tries constantly to outwit the wascally wabbit. With his clever ways, multiple catchphrases and casual manner, this gray hare doesn’t only know how to make us laugh, but also makes us think twice about our next haircut.

Do you agree with our list? Who’s your favorite cartoon character? For more of your favorite videos published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.