Top 20 Greatest Disney Characters of All Time
#20: Mirabel Madrigal
“Encanto” (2021)
If you’ve ever struggled to feel like you fit in, then Mirabel is a character you’ll be able to relate to. Being the only family member without a magical gift, she feels like an outcast in her own family. Yet at the same time, she’s deeply proud of all of them. What makes Mirabel such an exceptional character is the support and help she gives to all around her. Even though she feels overlooked, she comforts her younger cousin when he’s scared. Despite feeling inadequate next to her magical sisters, Mirabel supports and encourages both of them. She offers her family unconditional love and just wants that in return.
#19: Rapunzel
“Tangled” (2010)
Despite being raised alone in a tower, Rapunzel is remarkably good with people. She has a palpable enthusiasm for life that’s utterly contagious. Her genuine interest in others makes her instantly likable and able to make new friends wherever she goes. This is even more impressive considering the way she was raised. Kidnapped by Mother Gothel, she’s told that the outside world is dangerous and she’s too weak to survive. Rapunzel could be completely afraid and paranoid. Instead, she’s a relatably awkward, frying pan-wielding spitfire focused on finding her truth.
#18: Moana
“Moana” (2016)
Top 10 Moana Easter Eggs You Missed
Moana’s determination and sense of duty really makes her stand out as a character. She’ll one day be the ruler of her people, and she feels a tremendous responsibility for them. However, she’s also drawn to the ocean and adventure. During the film, Moana tries to bring these two sides of her life and personality together. As she accepts who she is, this future chief has no trouble putting a troublesome demigod in his place, or standing up to a lava-wielding goddess. Moana’s strength makes her one of Disney’s most admirable female characters.
#17: Tiana
“The Princess and the Frog” (2009)
Even when Tiana was a little girl, she knew exactly what she wanted. Her dream to own a restaurant motivates her and inspires her unending hard work. Even when she gets turned into a frog, this budding entrepreneur’s focus and determination sees her through. Dr. Facilier tempts her by offering her an easy path to her dream, but Tiana rejects it. The life lessons she learned from her father remind her that love is the most important thing in your life. Tiana walks away from the villain knowing the value of working for what you want, but the importance of realizing that you have all you need.
#16: Captain Jack Sparrow
“Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise (2003-17)
Top 10 Greatest Captain America MCU Moments
When the first swashbuckling adventure film hit the big screen, the world fell in love with Captain Jack Sparrow. He’s incredibly selfish, usually drunk, and totally honest about both. That could be why everyone likes him. Captain Jack’s unstable charisma makes everyone love him and simultaneously want to kill him. He’s a pirate that’s more likely to trick you than fight you, and yet he somehow comes off as the hero of the story. Even his close friends can’t figure him out. Both Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann constantly question whose side he’s on. The obvious answer is… he’s on the side of Captain Jack Sparrow.
#15: Cruella de Vil
“One Hundred and One Dalmatians” franchise (1961-)
The Evolution of Cruella de Vil
Cruella is a villain with style. She definitely knows how to make an entrance, but it’s probably best if you don’t let her drive a car. We’re first introduced to her devil-like nature by the very catchy song in the animated film. And we know she’s evil when she reveals her plan to skin adorable Dalmatian puppies. Her live-action incarnations definitely up her fashion cred, but her disregard for cute furry animals still makes her hard to love. Cruella is the ultimate depiction of vanity and greed, and we love to hate her.
#14: Mulan
“Mulan” franchise (1998-)
Top 10 Differences Between Mulan (1998) & Mulan (2020)
Mulan wants to be what her family expects, but can’t seem to fit the mold. This brave, rebellious spirit - combined with a strong sense of duty - leads to her taking her father’s place in battle. As she trains with her trusty dragon Mushu by her side, Mulan learns to see her own value as a smart fighter gifted at strategy. Although she eventually takes to the role of male warrior, she’s still hiding her true self. Ultimately, Mulan declares who she is and also manages to save the emperor. Accepting both her inner and outer selves makes her a true warrior.
#13: Pinocchio
“Pinocchio” (1940) & “Pinocchio” (2022)
The Evolution of Pinocchio
From the beginning, we can’t help but root for Pinocchio. We want him to be brave, truthful and unselfish, because he and Geppetto deserve a happy ending. However, despite the wooden puppet’s positive personality, he’s also easily tempted. Even with the help of the wise, Jiminy Cricket acting as his conscience, Pinocchio can’t help but lie and get into trouble. That’s why it’s so encouraging to see him eventually make the right choices. It provides a little hope for anyone who’s ever ignored their voice of reason and made a mistake.
#12: Stitch
“Lilo & Stitch” franchise (2002-)
Stitch is an illegally made alien created to cause chaos; he does a really good job of it, too. However, instead of wreaking havoc around the galaxy, as his original owner intended, he ends up shaking up the life of Lilo and her older sister Nani. His new Hawaiian owner works hard to teach him manners. Lilo is full of sass herself, so they’re definitely well suited for each other. Their relationship is a great portrayal of the importance of found family. Stitch is basically an adorably naughty, blue puppy that’s capable of love and communication; it’s kind of every pet owner’s dream.
#11: Simba
“The Lion King” franchise (1994-)
Whether you prefer the hand-drawn lion cub or the CGI version, Simba is a character you won’t soon forget. Maybe it’s because you get to see him in so many stages of his life. He probably has the most epic introduction of any Disney character. Then, we get a peek at an initially carefree youngster who witnesses the traumatic death of his father. The deliciously wicked Scar makes Simba believe it’s his fault. So, he runs away to meet one of Disney’s best comedy duos. Timon and Pumbaa provide Simba with fun and friendship. Eventually, we can feel proud of Simba’s growth when he stands up to his evil uncle.
#10: Tinker Bell
“Peter Pan” franchise (1953-)
Was there ever a sassier character than Tinker Bell in her film debut? We know that Peter Pan is supposed to be the focus of the film, but when this pesky pixie is on the screen, she steals the show. Tink has far too much emotion for her tiny body, and so she just has to let it out. This can get her in trouble; whether she’s trying to get Wendy shot out of the sky or caught by the villainous Captain Hook. Tink is vain, jealous and has a terrible temper, but she’s a whole lot of fun.
#9: Elsa
“Frozen” franchise (2013-)
For most of her life, Elsa lives in fear. In order to avoid hurting people with her magical powers, she was taught to suppress them. Along the way, she learned to suppress all her emotions and anxieties. This is definitely something people today can relate to. Elsa’s taught to be ashamed of her true self, and she just longs to be free. This journey takes her through two films. Eventually Elsa embraces not only her powers, but a path that leads away from the throne. The force that centers her through it all is the love she shares with those she loves, such as her sister Anna, and a certain snowman.
#8: Maleficent
“Sleeping Beauty” (1959) & “Maleficent” franchise (2014-)
Maleficent (2014) VS Cruella (2021)
We know she’s a villain, but we can’t help but adore Maleficent’s flair for the dramatic. She wasn’t invited to the party, but she’s still going to make an entrance. In the animated version, she’s truly one of the most powerfully evil villains - she turns into a fire-breathing dragon to destroy true love! In the live-action story, we’re given an alternate version of the Mistress of Evil where the terrifying image is a mask. Betrayed at a young age, this dark fairy has a soft heart for the child she cursed. It makes her character even more complex, but without letting go of the gothic melodrama.
#7: Belle
“Beauty and the Beast” franchise (1991-)
Every introverted personality that just wants to be left alone to read has a hero in Belle. The live-action version expands her quirks into a love of invention and a desire to help other women, gasp, read. Her love for books and clever personality makes her an outcast, but she has trouble understanding why. On top of these admirable qualities, Belle is also brave and willing to sacrifice herself for the people she loves. She’s not afraid to think outside the box or give a beast a second chance. This is probably something we all could aspire to.
#6: Mary Poppins
“Mary Poppins” (1964) & “Mary Poppins Returns” (2018)
Top 10 Things You Missed in Mary Poppins Returns
Whether it’s Julie Andrews or Emily Blunt, Mary Poppins is practically perfect in every way. Although she appears to be an upright and stern nanny, somehow Mary ends up taking her charges on very unorthodox adventures. She’s quick with a witticism and probably a little bit conceited, but also someone that has friends wherever she goes. We’re not surprised because in each film it’s revealed how much this magical nanny truly cares for those around her. Although she may roll her eyes, she always knows just what someone needs to become a better version of themselves.
#5: Ariel
“The Little Mermaid” franchise (1989-)
Ariel splashed on to the screen as Disney’s first princess to epitomize the rebellious teenager. The fight she has with her father, King Triton, over her human crush is recognizable to teens and parents alike. Even her wise friend Sebastian can’t keep her from losing herself in her dreams of escape. This stubborn, red-headed firebrand has a fierce streak of stubbornness and a willingness to jump into everything fin-first. Or is that feet-first? This gets her into trouble with the fabulously evil Ursula. However, Ariel pairs her charismatic love for adventure with bravery and a willingness to fight for what she wants. Ursula never stood a chance.
#4: Winnie the Pooh
“Winnie the Pooh” franchise (1977-)
This lovable bear is soft in the middle, always hungry, and cares deeply about his friends - no wonder he’s such a beloved character. Although Pooh occasionally adventures on his own (usually to get a snack), he seems hard to imagine without one of his many friends. Each of these animal companions is also very relatable. Piglet is the always-dependable kindred spirit. Eeyore is the friend who focuses on the negative, and usually needs a little cheering up. And who doesn’t have a friend like Tigger, someone who’s just a little bit extra. There are so many stories of Pooh and his companions that they feel like they’re our friends as well.
#3: Cinderella
“Cinderella” franchise (1950-)
Top 10 Greatest Cinderella Movies
The kind-hearted girl forced to work nonstop for her selfish stepfamily is one of the most familiar fairy tales. What stands out about Cinderella’s character is her positive attitude in the face of trials. Even though no one stands up for her, she protects all the animals around her. Even when Cinderella’s at her lowest, she looks for hope and magic. She sings while doing chores or being locked in her room, (and that has to drive her cranky stepfamily crazy). One of the most defining moments of her character is in the live-action version. As she leaves her family home forever, hand in hand with her prince, Cinderella turns and offers forgiveness to the woman who’s treated her so cruelly. Now that’s class.
#2: Genie
“Aladdin” franchise (1992-)
Top 10 Genie Moments in Aladdin
With respect to Aladdin and Jasmine, Genie is definitely the one you’d want as a best friend. First of all, you’d never be sad for long because this wish-granting phenomenon is hilarious. Not only that, he has a lot of knowledge. Living for thousands of years will do that. But mostly, he’s extremely loyal and will be there for you no matter what. He’d love to be free and settle down to start his own family, but not at the expense of his pal, Aladdin. Genie tries to help him form his wishes in the best possible way, but also encourages Aladdin to just be himself. That’s a true friend, indeed.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
Snow White, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937)
The Original Disney Princess
Yzma, “The Emperor’s New Groove” franchise (2000-)
Being Bad Never Sounded This Good
Cheshire Cat, “Alice in Wonderland” franchise (1951-)
The Definition of a Cool Cat
Baymax, “Big Hero 6” (2014)
We’re More Than Satisfied With This Character
Jack Skellington, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)
Pumpkin King Forever
#1: Mickey Mouse
Various
Is there any more iconic character than this happy mouse? All it takes is one little chuckle and a high-pitched greeting to know exactly who’s white-gloved hand is about to wave hello. He’s also hard to separate from his closest friends. From their first appearance in “Steamboat Willie,” Minnie Mouse has been at Mickey’s side. It wasn’t long before his adventures were full of other unforgettable friends. It wouldn’t be the same without Donald’s angry quacks and Daisy’s sensible advice. Goofy’s humble charms will forever hold a place in our heart, along with the faithful pup Pluto. This collection of sweet, cranky and goofy friends will forever be associated with Disney and all its joys.
