Most popular iconic cartoon characters in World Cinema

Some cartoon characters have achieved global recognition and cultural impact, becoming iconic figures in popular media. These characters, often from animation, comics, or TV shows, have transcended their original platforms and become part of global pop culture.

**Most iconic cartoon characters in World Cinema**

Here’s a list of some of the most iconic cartoon characters in the world:

20. Johnny Bravo

Created By: Van Partible
First Appearance: Johnny Bravo (1997)
Why Iconic:
Johnny Bravo’s over-the-top personality, muscular physique, and hilarious self-absorption made him a standout character in animation.

19. Charlie Brown and Snoopy

Created By: Charles M. Schulz
First Appearance: Peanuts (1950)
Why Iconic:
Charlie Brown’s struggles and Snoopy’s vivid imagination made Peanuts a timeless classic, loved by generations.

18. Ed, Edd n Eddy

Created By: Danny Antonucci
First Appearance: Ed, Edd n Eddy (1999)
Why Iconic:
This trio’s wild schemes and wacky humor brought a fresh take on childhood misadventures.

17. Scooby-Doo and Shaggy

Created By: Joe Ruby and Ken Spears
First Appearance: Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! (1969)
Why Iconic:
Their love of food, fear of ghosts, and hilarious friendship make them one of animation’s most beloved duos.

16. Woody and Buzz Lightyear

Created By: John Lasseter and Pixar
First Appearance: Toy Story (1995)
Why Iconic:
The evolving friendship between Woody and Buzz became the emotional core of the Toy Story franchise.

15. South Park Characters (Stan, Kyle, Cartman, Kenny)

Created By: Trey Parker and Matt Stone
First Appearance: South Park (1997)
Why Iconic:
These characters are known for their satirical humor and fearless social commentary.

14. The Powerpuff Girls

Created By: Craig McCracken
First Appearance: The Powerpuff Girls (1998)
Why Iconic:
Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup’s mix of crime-fighting action and humor made them a fan-favorite.

13. Betty Boop

Created By: Max Fleischer
First Appearance: Dizzy Dishes (1930)
Why Iconic:
Betty Boop’s flapper style and playful personality made her a trailblazer in animation.

12. Tweety Bird

Created By: Friz Freleng
First Appearance: A Tale of Two Kitties (1942)
Why Iconic:
Tweety’s sweet yet clever personality, along with his rivalry with Sylvester, made him unforgettable.

11. Pikachu

Created By: Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori
First Appearance: Pokémon Red and Blue (1996)
Why Iconic:
As the face of Pokémon, Pikachu’s cuteness and electric powers have made it a global phenomenon.

10. Garfield

Created By: Jim Davis
First Appearance: Garfield comic strip (1978)
Why Iconic:
Garfield’s sarcasm, love of lasagna, and laziness made him a relatable and beloved character.

9. Batman (Animated Series)

Created By: Bob Kane and Bill Finger
First Appearance: Batman: The Animated Series (1990s)
Why Iconic:
Batman’s animated series redefined superhero storytelling with dark themes and legendary villains.

8. Popeye the Sailor Man

Created By: Elzie Crisler Segar
First Appearance: Thimble Theatre (1929)
Why Iconic:
Popeye’s love for spinach and catchphrase “I yam what I yam” made him a classic hero.

7. Donald Duck

Created By: Carl Barks
First Appearance: The Wise Little Hen (1934)
Why Iconic:
Donald Duck’s fiery temper and iconic voice have made him one of Disney’s most enduring characters.

6. Scooby-Doo

Created By: Joe Ruby and Ken Spears
First Appearance: Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! (1969)
Why Iconic:
Scooby’s mystery-solving adventures and lovable personality have made him a childhood favorite.

5. Tom and Jerry

Created By: William Hanna and Joseph Barbera
First Appearance: Puss Gets the Boot (1940)
Why Iconic:
The eternal chase between Tom and Jerry remains one of the greatest slapstick animations ever created.

4. Homer Simpson

Created By: Matt Groening
First Appearance: The Simpsons (1989)
Why Iconic:
Homer’s “D’oh!” and hilarious antics made him a pop culture symbol of modern family life.

3. SpongeBob SquarePants

Created By: Stephen Hillenburg
First Appearance: SpongeBob SquarePants (1999)
Why Iconic:
SpongeBob’s cheerful, quirky personality and hilarious adventures have made him a household name.

2. Bugs Bunny

Created By: Tex Avery and Robert McKimson
First Appearance: A Wild Hare (1940)
Why Iconic:
Bugs’ witty comebacks and catchphrase “Eh, what’s up, doc?” make him the face of Warner Bros. animation.

1. Mickey Mouse

Created By: Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks
First Appearance: Steamboat Willie (1928)
Why Iconic:
Mickey Mouse is the face of Disney and the most recognizable cartoon character in history.

These characters, spanning various genres and cultures, have become symbols of not just cartoons but broader pop culture. Their appeal endures, as they remain loved by fans of all ages. Which of these iconic characters stands out to you, or is there another character you’d like to explore more?