Black cartoon characters were rare in early animations. However, greater diversity in the film and animation industry has produced several great, memorable characters.
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Not only do black characters bring diversity to animated movies and shows, but they also add flavour. Here are the 50 best black cartoon characters from your favourite shows and movies.
Famous Black Cartoon Characters
Recently, there has been a rise in famous black cartoon characters. Here are some of the most famous ones. Note that they are not arranged in any particular order.
1. Storm from X-Men
Storm is among the first black female character in the Marvel universe. She is one of the strongest and most magical mutants. Her power to control the weather makes her a formidable character in the comic and television world.
2. Tiana from The Princess and the Frog
Tiana was the first African-American Disney princess. She is an opinionated and intelligent waitress who dreams of opening her own restaurant. Tiana's determination and hard work resonate with audiences of all ages.
3. Penny Proud from Proud Family
Penny Proud was a great role model for children. She had perfect grades and listened to her parents in Proud Family. Penny's character showcases the importance of family and education.
4. Huey Freeman from The Boondocks
Huey is a self-appointed radical revolutionary. He is knowledgeable about black history and not afraid to speak his mind. His character often challenges societal norms and encourages critical thinking.
5. Riley Freeman from The Boondocks
Riley is the exact opposite of his brother Huey. While Huey is smart and critical, Riley is rash and obsessed with gangsta culture. His character adds a comedic yet insightful view of youth culture.
6. Miles Morales from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Miles is an artistic and passionate teenager. He is smart and loves science but struggles with guilt and confusion as Spider-Man. His story highlights the importance of identity and responsibility.
7. Doc McStuffins from Doc McStuffins
Doc McStuffins aspires to be a doctor from a young age. She is famous for being smart, friendly, and caring. Her character promotes the idea that children can achieve their dreams through hard work.
8. Frozone from Incredibles
Frozone is Bob Parr’s best friend and loyal sidekick. He is remembered for his legendary quote, "Honey... where's my super suit?" His humorous and supportive nature makes him a beloved character.
9. Franklin from Peanuts
Franklin was the first African-American character on TV. He is the most grounded and normal Peanuts character. Franklin's presence brought much-needed representation to the animated world.
10. Black Panther from Avengers Assemble
Black Panther is a man of responsibility. He is passionate about Wakanda and dedicates his life to protecting the people. His character embodies leadership and bravery in the face of adversity.
11. Numbuh 5 from Codename: Kids Next Door
Numbuh 5 is laid-back and intelligent. She is very dedicated and takes their missions seriously. Her character shows that teamwork and friendship are essential in overcoming challenges.
12. Cleveland Brown from Family Guy
Cleveland is the trusty friend and neighbour of the Griffin family. He is a great voice of reason for his friends who make foolish schemes. Cleveland's character adds depth and humor to the show.
Black Female Cartoon Characters
Black female cartoon characters are often written as sidekicks. However, they are often strong-willed and compassionate.
13. Suga Mama Proud from Proud Family
Suga Mama was Penny’s loving but sassy grandmother. She was a cool grandma and had a deep love for her family. Her character brings warmth and wisdom to the show.
14. Susanna "Susie" Carmichael from Rugrats
Although Susie was Angelica’s rival, she was a positive model of intelligence for young black girls. Her kind, fun-loving nature resonated with many. Susie's character encourages empathy and friendship.
15. Kit from Craig of the Creek
Kit is smart and very business-minded. She is the strict owner of the Trading Tree and can be sneaky and dishonest. Her character adds complexity and intrigue to the narrative.
16. Gratuity "Tip" Tucci from Home
Tip is originally Barbadian, like pop singer Rihanna, who voiced the character. She meets an alien, Oh, and they become great adventure friends. Tip's character emphasizes friendship and acceptance.
17. Missy Foreman-Greenwald from Big Mouth
Missy is friends with Jessi and Andrew. Although awkward, she has a strong moral compass and is innovative. Her character highlights the challenges of growing up with honesty and integrity.
18. Blisstina Utonium from The Powerpuff Girls
Bliss first showed up in the 2016 Powerpuff Girls series. She was the girls’ smart, strong, and loving older sister. Bliss's character reinforces the importance of family and support.
19. Microwoman from Tarzan and the Super 7
Microwoman was part of the first duo of black animated characters to be superheroes. She could shrink to a microscopic size to fight crime. Her character showcases bravery and heroism.
20. Yasmin from Bratz
Yasmin is one of the four core Bratz characters. She is glamorous, feminine, and a talented writer. Yasmin represents creativity and confidence in young girls.
21. Garnet from Steven Universe
Garnet is the leader of the Crystal Gems. Though reserved and soft-spoken, she is wise and the strongest of the Gems. Her character embodies strength and compassion.
22. Iridessa from Tinker Bell
Iridessa is one of the main Disney Fairies. She is a positive, welcoming, and talented fairy character. Iridessa's character emphasizes the value of kindness and creativity.
Black Male Cartoon Characters
There are many great black male cartoon characters. From superheroes to sidekicks and villains, here are some memorable black male cartoon characters.
23. Sticky Webb from Proud Family
Sticky was Penny’s other best friend and had a secret crush on her. He was also very tech-savvy, which often came in handy. His character adds humor and relatability to the series.
24. Cole Tillerman from Central Park
Paige and Owen's son, Cole, is a sweet, emotional boy. He loves animals and always stands up for them. Cole's character highlights the importance of compassion and empathy.
25. Craig Williams from Craig of the Creek
A ten-year-old boy, Craig can be bossy and impatient. But deep down, he has a strong sense of justice and stands up to bullies. Craig's character encourages bravery and friendship.
26. John Stewart/Green Lantern from Young Justice
Jon Stewart joined the Green Lantern Corps after being discharged from the corps. Although he possesses no superhuman abilities, he is strong-willed and fearless. His character exemplifies courage and leadership.
27. Harold McBride from Loud House
Harold and his husband Howard were the first interracial married gay couple on Nickelodeon. Harold is a great father to Clyde and often Howard's voice of reason. His character promotes acceptance and love.
28. Gerald Johanssen from Hey Arnold!
Gerald is Arnold's loyal and caring friend. His pragmatic approach to life perfectly balances out Arnold's idealistic nature. Gerald's character teaches the value of friendship
