35 Iconic Cartoon Characters of all time! [The Ultimate List] – guide 2023

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Cartoons have played an integral role in our lives since childhood, offering entertainment and teaching us valuable life lessons such as respect, friendship, courage, perseverance, and love. While cartoons have evolved visually over time, some classic cartoon characters have remained timeless in their impact on younger generations. In this article, we will explore the top 35 iconic cartoon characters of all time, highlighting their enduring influence on our lives.

1. Mickey Mouse

Source: Fandom

First on the list is Mickey Mouse.

It’s one of the most iconic characters of the 20th century, as Mickey represents everything that Walt Disney wanted to portray through his characters.

Happiness, charm, and his ability to have fun made him one of the most recognizable figures in the world of animation and capture a place in the hearts of millions of people worldwide.

When was Mickey Mouse created?

Mickey Mouse was created in the year 1928 by Walt Disney and Ub iwerks. This character first appeared in Steamboat Wille.

Who voiced Mickey Mouse?

Initially, Walt Disney himself provided the voice for Mickey Mouse. However, after his demise, other voice-over artists like Jimmy MacDonald, Wayne Allwine, Bret Iwan, and Chris Diamantopoulous have taken over the role.

2. Tom And Jerry

Source: Fandom

Tom and Jerry is a classic American series that has been entertaining audiences for generations together. If you didn’t know about Tom and Jerry, it is a series about a cat named Tom and a mouse named Jerry. From 1940 to 1958, about 114 Tom and Jerry shorts were created for MGM (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer).

When was Tom and Jerry First Created?

Tom and Jerry were first created in 1940 by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera.

Who did the voice of Tom and Jerry?

William Hanna and Mel Blanc provided the original voiceover for Tom and Jerry. Over the years, other artists like June Foray, John Winfield Stephenson, Don Brown, and others took over.

3. Bugs Bunny

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image 2023 03 28 200203225

Source: Fandom

Bugs bunny is a Classic and famous cartoon character that Warner Brothers created for the Looney Tunes, an animated short film series. Bugs bunny’s quick wit and sarcastic humor has entertained audiences for over eight decades, and he remains one of the most beloved characters in animation.

When was Bugs Bunny created?

Bugs bunny was created in 1940 by Tex Avery, Ben Hardaway, Chuck Jones, and others at Warner Bros. Cartoons.

Who did the voiceover for Bugs Bunny?

Many voice actors voiced Bugs Bunny. Originally it was done by the legendary voice actor Mel Blanc. However, upon his demise, it was taken over by multiple other voice actors like Jeff Bergman, Greg Burson, Billy West, and others.

4. SpongeBob Square Pants

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2 35 iconic cartoon characters of all time the ultimate list guide 2023 1

Source: Fandom

SpongeBob SquarePants is a lovable, quirky, and cute character that has become one of the most popular animated characters of all time. The character SpongeBob lives in a pineapple deep down the sea called the “Underwater city of the bikini bottom”. The distinctive voice and silly behavior have made this character a beloved figure for both adults and children. 

When was SpongeBob created?

SpongeBob was created in 1999 by Stephen Hillenburg.

Who did the voiceover for SpongeBob?

Tom Kenny was the person behind SpongeBob SquarePants.

5. Homer J. Simpson

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Source: Fandom

Homer Jay Simpson is a character from the American Animated television series “The Simpsons.” He is a lovable character and often the source of humor in the show. His distinctive voice and catchphrases made Homer one of the favorite cartoon characters. His love for beer and donuts makes him very relatable.

When were the Simpsons created?

The Simpsons were created in 1989 by the cartoonist Matt Groening.

Who is the voice of Homer J Simpson?

The voice actor for Homer Jay Simpson is Dan Castellaneta.

6. Donald Duck

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Source: Fandom

Donald Duck is a classic Disney character. He has yellow-orange bill, legs, and feet. He’s well known for his distinctive voice, sailor outfit, and love for adventure. Irrespective of his flaws, Donald has entertained audiences for over 80 years and remains one of the most popular & lovable character of all time.

When was Donald Duck created?

Donald Duck was created in 1934 by Walt Disney and animator Dick Lundy.

Who did voice Donald Duck?

Clarence Nash did the voice actor for Donald Duck. After the demise of Clarance, Tony Anselmo became the voice for Donald Duck.

7. Scooby-Doo and Shaggy Rogers

Source: Fandom

If there’s an ultimate combination of characters, it has to be Scooby Doo and Shaggy Rodgers. They are best friends and partners who solve mysteries in the famous series, Scooby Doo. Scooby Doo is a Great Dane, and Shaggy is a ravenous human. They both love food and battling spooky ghosts/monsters.

When was Scooby Doo created?

The original show “Scooby-Doo, where are you!” was created in 1969 by Joe Ruby & Ken Spears.

Who gave the voice to Scooby-Doo and Shaggy Rodgers?

Don Messick initially voiced Scooby Doo, and Casey Kasem voiced Shaggy Rodgers. After the demise of Don and Casey, other voice artists like Frank Welker, Matthew Lillard, and others gave their voices to Scooby Doo & Shaggy Rodgers.

8. Daffy Duck

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Source: Fandom

Daffy Duck is yet another classical American cartoon character. He’s a black duck with yellow duck bills and palmate feet. He is well known for being a mixed bag when it comes to personality. While Daffy duck has often portrayed the character of an anti hero, he has also showcased heroic personality in more than a few episodes of his show.

When was Daffy Duck created?

Daffy Duck was created back in 1937 by Tex Avery and Bob Clampett at Warner Bros Cartoons.

Who voiced Daffy Duck?

Daffy Duck was initially voiced by the legend Mel Blanc himself. After his death, actors played Daffy Duck’s voice, including Jeff Bergman, Greg Burson, Joe Alaskey, and others.

9. Pikachu

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Source: Fandom

Pikachu is a legendary character from the evergreen video game series Pokemon. He is a cute and lovable yellow electric mouse and is well known for his iconic sound, “Pika Pika.” Without any doubt, Pikachu has captured millions of hearts all around the world.

When was Pikachu created?

Pikachu was created in 1996 by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori, the creators of the Pokemon franchise creators.

Who is the voiceover artist for Pikachu?

In Japanese, Ikue Otani gave the voice of Pikachu, and Actress Sarah Natochenny voiced Pikachu in English. 

10. Road Runner

Source: Fandom


Roadrunner is a popular cartoon character known for his incredible speed and his distinctive voice line, “Beep Beep.” In every episode, his famous duo, Wile E. Coyote, attempts to eat the Road Runner. But, Road Runner is always a step ahead by escaping every time. They have entertained audiences with their humorous and thrilling chases for over 60 years.

When was Road Runner created?

Road Runner was first created in 1948 in the Fast and Furry-ous series. Chuck Jones and Micheal Maltese created it.

Who voiced the Road Runner?

Road Runner is voiced by Paul Julian and was followed up by Mel Blanc, Joe Alaskey, and Eric Bauza after the passing of Paul Julian.

11. Fred Flintstone

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Source: Fandom


Fred Flinstone is a popular & prehistoric character from the animated television series “The Flinstones.” He is the head of the Flinstone household and is well known for his distinctive growl, love for bowling, and unique laugh.

When was Fred Flinstone created?

Fred Flinstone was created in 1960 by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera at the Hanna-Barbera Productions.

Who did the voice Fred Flinstone?

Alan Reed initially voiced Fred Flintstone. However, after his death, other voice actors like Henry Corden, Frank Welker, and others provided the voice for this character.

12. Betty Boop

Source: Fandom

Betty Boop is a classic animated character from the Talkartoon and Betty Boop film series. She’s well known for her flirty personality and her unique voice.  Betty Boop was created as a human character, but later she was transformed into a French Poodle.

When was Betty Boop created?

Betty Boop was created in 1930 by Max Fleischer, an American Animator and Film producer.

Who voiced Betty Boop?

Actress and singer Margie Hines initially voiced Betty Boop. After her death, her voice was given by Little Ann Little, Harriet Lee, Melissa Fahn, and Sandy Fox.

13. Goofy

Source: Fandom

Goofy is a classic Disney character who is lovable and has a distinctive personality. He is also well known for his catchphrase “Ah-Hyuck.” He is a tall and anthropomorphic dog with a clumsy character and is always prone to accidents. But overall, he is well-behaved and good-natured.

When was Goofy created?

Goofy was created in 1932 by the Disney Animators Art Babbitt and Pinto Colvig.

Who voiced Goofy?

Goofy was voiced by Pint Colvig, Dany Webb, Hal Smith, Tony Pope, Will Ryan, and Bill Farmer. 

14. Popeye, the sailor man

Source: Fandom

Popeye, the Sailor Man, is a famous cartoon character known for his muscular physical features, squinted eyes, and unique speaking style. He has been featured in numerous comics, television shows, and films.

When was Popeye created?

Popey was created in 1929 by cartoonist Elzie Crisler Segar.

Who did the voice Popeye?

William Costello voiced Popeye, and he was one of the early voiceover artists for Popeye. Over the years, other actors, including Jack Mercer, Harry Welch, and others, have provided the voice for Popeye.

15. Woody Woodpecker

Source: Fandom

Woody Woodpecker is a classic animated character known for his distinctive laugh and unique personality. He is a chaotic bird who likes to cause trouble and is always involved in some kind of trouble. However, despite his foolish and naughty behavior, Woody is a lovable character who has been entertaining for over 80 years.

When was Woody Woodpecker created?

Woody Woodpecker was created in 1940 by Walter Lantz.

Who gave the voiceover for Woody Woodpecker?

Mel Blanc initially gave Woody Woodpecker’s voice; after his death, other voice actors, including Ben Hardaway, Grace Stafford, and Billy West, have provided the voice for the character.

16. Tweety Bird

Source: Fandom

Tweety Bird is a cute & popular cartoon character who is well known for its innocent appearance with long eyelashes and high pitched voice. Even though the looks might make you think its a feminine, Tweety is a male.

Tweety is a yellow canary bird who is the target of Sylvester, the cat. The cat’s goal is to catch Tweety. But despite Sylvester’s repeated & best efforts, Tweety manages to outwit him with his quick moves and thinking.

When was Tweety created?

Tweety made its first appearance in 1942 and was created by Bob Clampett, an American animator, and cartoonist.

Who voiced the Tweety bird?

In the initial stages, Tweety bird was voiced by Mel Blanc. Upon his passing, it was followed up by multiple voice actors like Jeff Bergman, Bob Bergen, Sam Vincent, Billy West, and many others.

17. The Powerpuff Girls

Source: Fandom

Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup are collectively known as The Powerpuff Girls. They are a group of crime-fighting superheroes who protect the city of Townsville from enemies and monsters.

Blossom is the group leader, known for her intelligence and analytical skills. Bubbles is a cute innocent & sweet member of the team who has a unique ability to talk to animals. And Buttercup is the tough & rough, aggressive member of the team, and she’s also the team’s main fighter.

When was Powerpuff Girls created?

The Powerpuff Girls were created in 1992 by animator Craig McCracken.

Who voiced the Powerpuff girls?

Cathy Cavadini voiced Blossom; Tara Strong voiced Bubbles; and E.G. Daily voiced Buttercup.

18. Eric Cartman (South Park)

Source: Fandom

Eric Cartman is from the animated television series “South Park.” He is a mischievous and foul-mouthed kid often known for his offensive antics. Despite his acts, Cartman has become one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the series.

When was Eric Cartman Created?

Eric Cartman was created in 1997 by Trey Parker and Matt Stone.

Who gave the voiceover for Eric Cartman?

Eric Cartman is voiced by Trey Parker, who’s also one of the Co-Creators of South Park.

19. Garfield

Source: Fandom

Garfield is a fat, lazy orange cat who loves eating and sleeping. He lives with his owner Jon Arbuckle and his pet dog Odie. The series portrays Garfield as cynical, sarcastic, and self-centered. He is well known for his humor and for making sarcastic remarks about his surroundings, including the people and animals around him.

When was Garfield created?

Garfield was created in 1978 by Jim Davis.

Who voiced the character for Garfield?

Many people provided voice for Garfield, Initially it was provided by Lorenzo Music but after his death, Frank Welker, Bill Murray and other voice actors took over.

20. Taz
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Source: Fandom

Taz, also known as the Tasmanian Devil, is a popular cartoon character known for his wild and aggressive nature. He is showcased as a ferocious creature who tends to spin like a tornado.

When was Taz created?

Taz first appeared on the screens in 1954 and was created by Robert McKimson, an animator at Warner Bros Animation Studio. 

Who voiced Taz?

Like many other characters on this list, Taz was also initially voiced by Mel Blanc. If we checked by count, Jim Cummings has voiced for the characters the most times.

21. Elmer Fudd

Source: Fandom


Elmer Fudd is a famous character from Warner Bros Looney Tunes, Merrie Melodies series, and the archenemy of Bugs Bunny. He is one of the many recurring characters in the Looney Tunes series and is often depicted as a hunter trying to hunt elusive prey and catch Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck.

When was Elmer Fudd created?

Elmer Fudd first appeared in 1937 and was created by Tex Avery. It was developed and published by Warner Bros. animation studio.

Who gave the voice to Elmer Fudd?

For most of the period, Arthur Q. Bryan was the voice actor. After him, several voice actors have voiced Elmer Fudd over the ages.

22. Marvin the Martian

Source: Fandom

Marvin the Martian is a popular cartoon character who is an extraterrestrial character from Warner Bros, Looney Tunes, and Merrie Melodies. He is well known for his distinctive helmet and his green outfit.

When was Marvin the Martian created?

Marvin the Martian was created in 1948 by Chuck Jones, an animator, and director at Warner Bros Animation Studio.

Who is the voice for Marvin, the Martian Character?

Marvin the Martian is a very silent character known for his soft-spoken, nasally voice provided by Mel Blanc. 

23. The Pink Panther

Source: Fandom

The Pink Panther is a fictional animated character who is a suave and smooth-talking anthropomorphic panther known for his detective work and the iconic theme music.

When was Pink Panther created?

Pink Panther was created first 1963 and appeared in the “The Pink Panther” animated series. This character was created by Friz Freleng and Hawley Pratt, animators from DePatie-Freleng Enterprises.

Who voiced the Pink Panther?

Pink Panther doesn’t speak but instead communicates through physical humor. His body language is often accompanied by smooth Jazz Theme Music.

24. Felix The, cat

Source: Fandom

Felix, the cat, is a cartoon character from the silent film era. Felix is an anthropomorphic black cat with big white eyes. He is well known for his broad smile and the mischievous and playful behavior that often puts him in unusual situations.

When was Felix the cat created?

Felix, the cat was created in 1919 by Pat Sullivan and Otto Messmer.

Who voiced Felix, the cat?

Over the years, there have been several voice-over artists for Felix the cat. To name a few, Walter Tetley, Jack Mercer, and Don Oriolo have voiced this iconic cat. 

25. Johnny Bravo

Source: Fandom

Johnny Bravo is a humorous American television character known for his physique, hairstyle, and his ways of making romantic advances.

When was Johnny Bravo created?

Johnny bravo first appeared in the Cartoon Network’s “Cartoon Cartoons” series in 1997. He was created by Van Partible, a Filipino – American animator.

Who voiced the Johnny Bravo character?

Johnny Bravo was voiced by the famous American voice actor Jeff Bennett who is known for his work on various animated television shows and movies. 

26. Casper the Friendly Ghost

Source: Fandom

Casper the Friendly Ghost is a beloved animated character known for his playful and gentle nature. He has a round head, a broad smile, and a transparent body.

When was Casper the friendly ghost created?

Casper was first seen as the main character in the series “Casper” in 1945. It was created by Joe Oriolo, an American Cartoonist and animator.

Who was the voice artist for Caspar the ghost?

Caspar is a silent character and did not have a voice actor in the original animated series. However, his expression and movements conveyed the message. Over the years, he has been voiced by multiple voice actors like Alan Shay, June Foray, Mae Questel, Norma MacMillan, Julie McWhirter, Joanna Ruiz, Christopher Miron, and so on.

27. Dexter

Source: Fandom

Dexter is a fictional character from the famous American Animated Television series Dexter’s Laboratory. He is known for his genius-level knowledge of science and his secret laboratory that’s hidden behind a bookshelf.

When was Dexter Created?

Dexter was created in 1995 by Genndy Tartakovsky.

Who voiced the Dexter character?

Christine Cavanaugh and Candi Milo voiced Dexter. 

28. Winnie the Pooh

Source: Fandom

Winnie the Pooh, also known as Pooh bear or Pooh, is a fictional anthropomorphic teddy bear who has been a beloved children’s character since his creation. He is known for his simple outlook on life and his love for honey.

When was Winnie the Pooh Created?

Winnie the Pooh was created in 1926 by A.E.H. Shepard and illustrated a Milne, a British author.

Who gave the voice to Winnie the Pooh?

Voice actor Jim Cummings gave Winnie Pooh’s famous voice. Other notable voice actors like Sterling Holloway, Hal Smith, and Bad Luckey have also provided the voice for Winnie the Pooh. 

29. Yogi Bear

Source: Fandom

Yogi Bear is a fictional character from the popular animated television series “The Yogi Bear Show.” He is an anthropomorphic animal bear who lives in Jellystone Park and constantly involves in stealing the picnic baskets from the visitors.

When was Yogi Bear created?

Yogi Bear first appeared1958 and was created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, the founders of the Hanna-Barbera animation studio.

Who voiced the character for Yogi Bear?

Daws Butler was the origins voice actor of Yogi Bear. After he died in 1988, Greg Burson, Dan Aykroyd, and Jeff Bergman provided the voice for Yogi Bear. 

30. Sylvester The Cat

Source: Fandom

Sylvester, the cat, is a fictional character and an anthropomorphic tuxedo cat in the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series of cartoons. He is well known for his trademark lisp and never-ending pursuit to catch Tweety Bird.

When was Sylvester the cat created?

Sylvester, the cat, made his first appearance in 1945, created by Friz Freleng, an animator, and director at Warner Bros Animation Studio.

Who voiced Sylvester, the cat?

Sylvester, the cat, was voiced by Mel Blanc, a famous voice actor who has voiced various Looney Toons characters.

31. Dora the Explorer

Source: Fandom

Dora is a young Latina girl who loves to explore and go on adventures. The character got famous in a popular children’s television show called Dora the Explorer. She entertains her audience with her infectious enthusiasm, problem-solving skills, and love of learning. She’s bilingual and speaks English and Spanish fluently, which made her a popular figure in Latino Households.

When was Dora created?

Dora was created in 2000 by Chris Gifford, Valeri Walsh, and Eric Weiner.

Who voiced Dora, the explorer character?

Kathleen Herles voiced Dora from 2000 to 2008. Later, the character was voiced by Caitlin Sanchez and Fatima Ptacek. 

32. Peppa Pig

Source: Fandom

Peppa Pig is a British Animated television series that follows the journey of a young pig called Peppa with her family and friends. This show is known for its educational content that teaches young children basic concepts like colors, numbers, the alphabet, social skills, and lots more.

When was Peppa Pig created?

Peppa Pig was created in 2004 by Neville Astley and Mark Baker.

Who is the voice artist of Peppa Pig?

The Voice artist for Peppa pig was Lily Snowden in season one. Cecily Bloom, Amelie Bea Smith, John Sparkles, Morwenna Banks, Richard Ridings, Oliver May, and Alice May provided the voices in the following seasons. 

33. Stewie Griffin

Source: Fandom

Stewie Griffin is a popular and famous fictional character from the American Television series “Family Guy.” He is the youngest child of the Griffin family and is well known for his intelligent and sinister behavior.

When was Stewie Griffin created?

Stewie Griffin was created in 1999 by Seth MacFarlane, the creator of Family Guy.

Who gave the voice to Stewie Griffin?

Seth MacFarlane himself voiced Stewie Griffin.

34. Snowy

Source: Fandom

Snowy is a White Wire Fox Terrier Dog and the faithful companion to the comic character TinTin. Snowy accompanies TinTin on many adventures around the world. He is known for his sharp intelligence, resourcefulness, and bravery.

Snowy has a unique ability to communicate with TinTin through his facial expressions and body language. He uses this to signal danger and alert TinTin during their adventures.

When was Snowy created?

Snowy first appeared in the TinTin comic strip in 1929 and was created by Georges Remi, a Belgian Cartoonist.

Who voiced the Snowy Character?

Snowy doesn’t have a voice and hence doesn’t have a voice-over artist.

35. Space Ghost

Source: Fandom

Space Ghost is a fictional superhero character who is an intergalactic crime fighter from the ghost planet. He has unique abilities and superpowers that can make him invisible, fly and survive in space.

When was Space Ghost created?

Space Ghost was created in 1966 and appeared in “The Heat Thing.” He was created by Alex Toth, William Hanna, and Joseph Barbera.

Who voiced the Space Ghost Character?

Gary Owens voiced the Space Ghost character in the original series. Later on, as the show progressed, George Lowe provided the character’s voice.

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I am sure some of those characters took you down memory lane. It has been decades since the inception of these characters yet their impact in our minds still remains the same. That’s the impact cartoon characters can have on a person.

In case you are wondering if there was a way to create cartoon characters on your own. Well there is one now. It’s pretty simple when you do it on our tool, Animaker’s cartoon maker.

We hope this blog was useful for you and if you think we have missed an iconic character in our list, please let us know in the comments section below. We’ll be more than happy to add it to our list.

Jose K Rogers

Jose K Rogers focus is on the creative arts, like website builders, image manipulation, and filmmaking software, but he hasn’t shied away from more business-oriented software either. He actually uses many of the apps he writes about everyday in his personal and professional life, and enjoys imparting his knowledge, including tips and tricks. Jose’s first love is the Mac, but he has dipped his toe in the Windows pool. And, of course, there’s the plethora of tablet and phone software he’s reviewed and written tutorials about as well.

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