Top 10 Supporting Female Characters in Disney and Pixar Films

In this beloved Disney film, young Mulan goes to war in order to protect her father. But it’s Grandmother Fa that lays down the groundwork for the great journey. With a witty personality and a knack for connecting with dead ancestors, the elderly granny secures protection for Mulan, or so it seems. And while the objective doesn’t go as planned, Grandmother Fa’s influence pervades the early part of the narrative, as she offers numerous gifts and even a lucky cricket to Mulan. She’s a strong-willed female who’s unafraid to speak her mind, yet Grandmother Fa’s wisdom demonstrates her understanding of family traditions and the way of the future.

Speaking of tradition, this stoic and respected female has firm beliefs in regards to family. Elinor is a loving, proud and educated Queen, and her words truly affect those around her, but the independent-minded Merida refuses to accept the concept of arranged marriage. As a result, a beautiful character study emerges, as the narrative arc of Queen Elinor not only reveals a figurative change, but a literal one as well. In other words, Elinor transforms into a black bear, which ultimately allows her to see Merida for the woman she truly is. And it’s the shared journey that allows for a heightened sense of respect and appreciation amongst mother and daughter, with the Queen loosening up her grip and embracing a more relaxed point of view.

As a female gorilla dealing with the loss of a child, Kala makes an unexpected discovery in Disney’s classic adaptation. And despite the skepticism of her mate Kerchak, the loving Kala bravely and lovingly raises young Tarzan as her own. Of course, Tarzan doesn’t quite understand the outside world, but he’s fully aware of his mother’s loyalty. When life becomes problematic, it’s Kala that offers some insight into both the past and the future. Incidentally, she’s a crucial part of Tarzan’s major decisions, representing how love can overcome perceived differences and idealistic stereotypes.

In Pixar’s story of familial superheroes, it’s a high society fashion designer that essentially saves the day. Sure, Edna Mode has a few quirks and can be slightly challenging, but her experience and expertise leads to the re-emergence of Mr. Incredible. After 15 years away from the designing industry, Edna’s customized costumes allow the Incredibles to flourish, and you better believe that she’s not going to include any capes. It’s this type of progressive thinking that highlights Ms. Mode as a heavily influential figure in the realm of superheroes. She’s half German, half Japanese and fully capable of blowing minds on a consistent basis through her remarkable threads.

As the animated embodiment of sadness itself, this character is a true outcast amongst her emotive companions. And through most of Disney Pixar’s Academy Award-winning film, Sadness feels lost in the mind of Riley Anderson. The more vibrant Joy often dismisses her presence, which is most definitely a shade of blue. Even so, Sadness does, in fact, serve a purpose, as her actions lead to a proper understanding of empathy and its relationship to core emotions. And, well, Disgust also plays a prominent role within the narrative of “Inside Out,” contrasting the nature of Riley’s insightful mother, Mrs. Anderson. All in all, there’s plenty of feels going on beyond just the sadness.

In Disney’s anthropomorphic adaptation, Lady Marian’s lady-in-waiting is rather nimble and athletic. But that’s only part of the skill set that makes Lady Kluck so valuable within the movie. As a calming figure and purveyor of wisdom, she brings clarity in times of distress, most notably when Marian awaits the arrival of the titular hero. And though Lady Kluck can be a bit snarky at times, she’s willing to walk the walk by mixing it up with fellas and displaying her cat-like speed and reflexes. She’s part comic relief, but her warmth towards Marian allows for a better understanding of how to deal with life’s predicaments.

As the protective protagonists of Disney’s classic tale, these three fairies look over the cursed infant Aurora. But when Flora and Fauna offer beauty and song respectively, Maleficent steps in to disrupt the proceedings of Merryweather. As a result, a battle of life and death is set in motion, with Merryweather and company dedicating themselves to the Princess, thus allowing the girl to awaken for a most eventful sweet 16. And even though Aurora experiences the inevitable heartbreak that comes along with growing up, her fairy godmothers ensure a future with her true love, Prince Philip.

First appearing in “Toy Story 2,” this toy cowgirl exudes a whole lot of joy while expressing her deepest fears. On a fundamental level, Jessie knows what it’s like to feel unloved, but she’s more than ecstatic to meet the star of “Woody’s Roundup.” And through a friendship with Sheriff Woody, Jessie reveals her thoughtful nature while imagining a more fulfilling experience as a yodeling toy. Fortunately, Jessie’s perseverance leads her directly to a new owner, which in turnleads her to a toy story romance with one Buzz Lightyear. As a character, Jessie channels all the fears of a lonely existence, but proves that a positive outlook can produce the most unexpected of results.

As the castle’s head housekeeper and resident teapot, this wise object brings levity to the mind of the titular beast. Of course, Mrs. Potts isn’t exactly living her dream life, but she can do something about the troubling behavior of the prince. And so, it’s her guidance and no-nonsense demeanor that helps the beast learn how to act like a gentleman. In turn, the beautiful Belle takes note. However, there’s no redemption without a genuine sense of love between the beauty and the beast, and it’s Mrs. Potts that plays matchmaker. In the end, her loyalty is paid out in full, along with the enthusiastic and unforgettable Fifi the Feather Duster.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Cass Hamada
“Big Hero 6” (2014)

Ellie Fredricksen
“Up” (2009)

Sally
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)

Franny Robinson
“Meet the Robinsons” (2007)

Charlotte ‘Lottie’ La Bouff
“The Princess and the Frog” (2009)

Colette Tatou
“Ratatouille” (2007)

Throughout her quarter-century existence, this Royal Blue Tang has amassed a ton of experience, but not a whole lotta memories. Even so, Dory hasn’t lost her lust for life and she helps Marlin in his quest to find the lost Nemo. Yeah, she can be a bit overwhelming at times, but Dory proves to be more than valuable in the deep blue sea. This makes life a little easier for Marlin, and Dory’s short-term memory loss only reinforces the idea of just how precious those special moments with family truly are. She’s always in the moment, and her positive outlook is simply infectious.

So, do you agree with our picks? Who do you think is the best supporting female character in a Disney and/or Pixar animated film? For more colorful Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to MsMojo.