Top 10 Nicest Cartoon Characters
#10: Mr. Peanutbutter
“BoJack Horseman” (2014-)
BoJack Horseman is one of the most cynical and depressing characters in all animation. So it’s only fitting that his arch frenemy would have such an upbeat personality. A former sitcom star, Mr. Peanutbutter is married to the object of BoJack’s affection, Diane. While this creates a complicated love triangle, Mr. Peanutbutter remains a thoughtful friend and a supportive boyfriend-later-husband. Of course you could argue that that this Labrador might be too nice. Mr. Peanutbutter is so determined to preserve a positive attitude that he’ll typically ignore the elephant in the room rather than dealing with his issues. Nevertheless, the public adores Mr. Peanutbutter and he’s always willing to lend a helping paw. This guy is truly man’s best friend.
#9: Phineas Flynn
“Phineas and Ferb” (2007-15)
Along with his stepbrother Ferb, this young boy aspires to make every day of summer vacation count. With a can-do attitude, Phineas pours all of his passion into every project he takes on, whether it’s traveling around the world or spreading aglet awareness. Phineas is also incredibly considerate of his friends and family, going above and beyond to make them happy. He has a knack for bringing people together and knows how to throw an unforgettable birthday party. This kid is overflowing with optimism, wanting nothing more than to share his good cheer with the world. Phineas is rarely angry and will only raise his voice when under extreme pleasure. Those fleeting moments aside, he’s a constant ray of sunshine.
#8: Michael "Mikey" Blumberg
“Recess” (1997-2001)
Mikey is the kind of pal we’d all like to have on the playground. While he might seem intimidating on the surface, this gentle giant wouldn’t hurt a fly. As a matter of fact, he’s easily the most peaceful and forgiving member of the “Recess” gang, often acting as a voice of reason. When Mikey isn’t hanging out with his best buds, he’s usually writing poetry or demonstrating his angelic singing chops. As generous as he is sensitive, Mikey regularly goes out of his way to help others. He has a big appetite and an even bigger heart.
#7: Mabel Pines
“Gravity Falls” (2012-16)
Gravity Falls is full of supernatural creatures, but this 12-year-old girl may be the most unique resident of all. With a hyperactive imagination and vast wardrobe of colorful sweaters, Mabel is like a never-ending rainbow. Even though she constantly crosses paths with dark forces, Mabel maintains a happy-go-lucky attitude. Putting a smile on someone’s face brings Mabel great joy, although her methods can be reckless and ill-conceived. In the end, however, she never fails to come through for her loved ones. She’s 100% pure of heart, despite what those jerky unicorns say.
#6: Finn the Human
“Adventure Time” (2010-)
Finn is the best that humanity has to offer, although part of that’s because he’s virtually the only human in Ooo. Regardless, Finn has all the essential traits of a hero: bravery, nobility, selflessness, and so much more. He’s basically the opposite of his deadbeat father, who abandoned his son as a baby. The only thing he loves more than adventure is assisting those in need. While Finn always tries his best and aspires to do the right thing, he does make mistakes on occasion. Of course sometimes people need to make mistakes in order to better themselves. In Finn’s case, he’s constantly growing as a human being, proving that the journey to manhood is the greatest adventure of all.
#5: Fluttershy
“My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic” (2010-)
“My Little Pony” has no shortage of friendly characters. Heck, the word, “Friendship,” is the central theme. If we had to single out the nicest pony in Equestria, however, Fluttershy would take the cake. The embodiment of kindness, this polite, soft-spoken Pegasus has a special connection with animals. She frequently looks out for the little guy, treating all living creatures with tender, loving care. While Fluttershy prefers to avoid confrontation, she’s not a complete pushover either. With a stern stare, she can take control of any situation. Whenever her friends are in danger, Fluttershy’s insecurities melt away and she emerges as a strong, resilient heroine.
#4: Bubbles
“The Powerpuff Girls” (1998-2005)
This little crime fighter is as sweet as can be, which is only appropriate since she’s literally made of sugar. Whereas the other Powerpuff Girls have the tendency to rush into action, Bubbles demonstrates that you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. When push comes to shove, however, Bubbles can kick some serious butt. As powerful as Bubbles is, she’s ultimately an innocent soul with a playful outlook on life and deep affection for animals. Even when Bubbles tries to be hardcore or is under an evil influence, she still comes off as adorable. Blossom might be everything nice, but we think that Bubbles is somehow even nicer.
#3: SpongeBob SquarePants
“SpongeBob SquarePants” (1999-)
Now more than ever, we seem to be getting a lot of good-natured, infectiously friendly central characters in cartoon shows. SpongeBob SquarePants could be seen as the trailblazer for this trend. In an era where it’s so easy to be negative and mean-spirited, SpongeBob possesses a refreshingly bubbly personality. This sea sponge wants to see the best in everybody, whether they’re a sourpuss like Squidward or a villain like Plankton. Since SpongeBob is so genuine and giving, he can be easily taken advantage of. When all is said and done, though, SpongeBob’s hopefulness triumphs over pessimism. He encourages us all to stop and smell the roses, demonstrating that a positive attitude can go a long way.
#2: Steven Universe
“Steven Universe” (2013-)
Half human and half Gem, Steven acts as a bridge between two different worlds. In many respects, Steven encompasses the best traits of his fellow Crystal Gems. He’s open-minded like Garnet, fun-loving like Amethyst, and nurturing like Pearl. He also possesses his mother’s warmth and his father’s appreciation for the little things in life. At the same time, Steven is a completely unique individual. He strives to bring out the best in everyone and occasionally even manages to convert a bad guy to the light side. When Steven can’t get through to somebody, it sincerely breaks his heart. Even then, though, he holds onto the hope that everything will work out for the best.
Before we get to our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
Starfire
“Teen Titans” (2003-06)
Casper the Friendly Ghost
“Casper” franchise (1945-)
#1: Ned Flanders
“The Simpsons” (1989-)
While Marge Simpson is a genuinely caring soul, Ned Flanders is the nicest person in Springfield. Living by the Holy Bible’s teachings, Flanders is a charitable, goodhearted, and welcoming family man. He also firmly believes in the phrase, “love thy neighbor.” Considering that Homer Simpson lives next-door, he must have the patience of a saint. With that said, Flanders does have his limits and sometimes loses his temper. It doesn’t take too long for Flanders to see the light, though, motivating him to live a compassionate life. Even when he’s the devil, he’s still pretty darn nice.
Do you agree with our list? Who do you think is the nicest cartoon character? For more entertaining Top 10s published every day, be sure to subscribe to MsMojo.