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Initially, women in animated shows were often portrayed as exaggerated or humorous figures, playing secondary roles to powerful male characters or antagonists who were typically witches. In media, women were frequently depicted as emotional and fragile beings requiring protection. However, in recent decades, there has been a significant shift, and more dynamic and strong female characters have emerged within the world of animation.

Despite being dismissed as mere entertainment for many years, the media eventually took a more serious approach to portraying their female characters, setting an example that other forms of media should emulate. Instead of stereotypical evil witches with no semblance of a real skeleton, these characters were complex and multi-dimensional, mirroring the struggles faced by ordinary women in everyday life.

In honor of our focus on iconic cartoon figures, we’ve compiled a list showcasing 30 outstanding female characters that have graced our screens over time. To keep things focused, we won’t delve into anime characters as they merit their separate listing. If you’re curious about our choices, stick around until the end of this article for the full rundown!

30. Lucille “Lucy” Van Pelt (Peanuts)

In the 1950s, a comic book tale captivated the globe – it was none other than Peanuts. Still running strong and adored universally, this comic strip has an enduring appeal. The escapades of Charlie Brown are widely recognized, but his companions were equally unforgettable characters that continue to resonate today. Among them is Lucy, a pivotal figure in the Peanuts comics.

The trick where Lucy pulls away the football just before Charlie Brown kicks it, a recurring gag from the comics and animations, is one of the most enduring jokes in cartoon history. As time went on, Lucy’s character evolved, taking on a more antagonistic role in the Peanuts comic strip. Despite this, Lucy, along with any other character from Peanuts, holds a significant place on this list.

29. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Pre-1990s Disney Princesses may not resonate as strongly with modern fans due to the different portrayals and values that these characters embodied during their respective eras.

Belle’s character represented a positive shift – Disney heroines became more independent, brave, and intelligent, rather than merely serving as plot devices for fairy tales. Instead of focusing on Belle finding a husband, she had her own aspirations, which was appreciated by viewers who eagerly embraced this new direction.

Belle fell in love with the beast, but on her terms, we need to handle her a place on this list.

28. Esmeralda (The Huncbak of Notre Dame)

Disney often transforms their source materials into animated versions that can be quite eerie and peculiar. One such example is “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” but luckily, Disney’s adaptation of Victor Hugo’s original novel is significantly less intense.

The principal character in this tale is a spirited, young Romani woman named Esmeralda, known for her compassionate nature and determination to shield the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, Quasimodo, who finds himself under attack by the loathsome Claude Frollo.

This woman, despite being young, possesses a strong voice and shrewd intelligence. Her morality and positivity are extraordinary, adding depth to her captivating personality. She stands out among Disney’s memorable female characters, and her significance should not be overlooked.

27. Megara (Hercules)

You’ll find Megara today, a Disney character we’ve been exploring in abundance. Initially, she was bound to Hades as his unwilling servant, and harbored disillusionment towards men due to past experiences.

Both sentences convey the same information, but the second one aims to be more natural and easier to read by using conversational language and avoiding technical terms like “minion” and “reluctant”. Additionally, it provides a bit of context about the series or collection of Disney characters being discussed.

Throughout the film, she primarily adopts a sarcastic and cynical demeanor, particularly when she encounters an unsuspecting Hercules who promptly develops feelings for her. However, Megara soon discerns that Hercules’ affections are genuine, and by the movie’s end, she too finds herself drawn to him.

In the 1990s, Megara’s sarcastic demeanor stood out as a unique portrayal of a leading female character in Disney films, as such depictions were relatively uncommon at the time.

26. Lana Kane (Archer)

Stepping aside from the charming world of Disney for a while, let’s delve into the realm of adult cartoons instead. Indeed, over the past decade, Archer has managed to redefine our perception of animated series with its distinctive approach, and the characters it has birthed are nothing short of extraordinary in their creation.

Among them is Lana Kane, a key character and romantic interest of Sterling Archer, known as one of the most lethal spies globally. Lana serves as an operative in the field for ISIS (International Secret Intelligence Service), with dreams of becoming a top-notch spy herself.

She’s a woman with firm determination and clear aspirations, but she can also be quick-tempered, leading to difficulties. However, her devotion and affection towards those dear to her add depth and complexity to her personality. Therefore, it’s essential to include her on our list for these intriguing qualities.

25. Jinx (Arcane)

Despite debuting just a year ago, Arcane has proven itself to be among the finest animated series ever produced. Its exceptional character development and portrayal of heroes is seldom found in the annals of cartoon history.

Jinx is a character who, despite her troubled history filled with heartbreaks and wrongdoings, inspires sympathy from us. Her complexity, rarely found in animated female characters, has left a lasting impression on audiences since her debut, even after just one season.

Anticipation runs high for us as we eagerly await to find out what becomes of Jinx and her companions in the upcoming second season of Arcane, and truth be told, we’re on pins and needles with excitement.

24. Wilma Flintstone (The Flintstones)

Hanna-Barbera cartoons played a significant role in shaping the 20th century, with “The Flintstones” being one of those groundbreaking shows. The fictional world of the Flintstone family, set in the Stone Age, was both imaginative and inventive. The characters were entertaining and endearing.

One character is Vilma Flintstone, not just Fred’s wife but a significant pillar of support. Unlike the stereotypical wives portrayed in cartoons from that time period, she is a strong, sensible, and serious individual who never hesitates to correct Fred when he acts foolishly.

Furthermore, Vilma’s character is depicted with emotional and sad scenes, such as crying, which enriches her narrative. Without a doubt, Vilma stands out among other cartoon characters and rightfully earns a place on this list.

23. Princess Jasmine (Aladdin)

Today, it’s Jasmine, a distinctive Disney Princess, who stole the spotlight in the animated film Aladdin. Unlike other princesses, she embodied Middle Eastern culture and made it clear that she wouldn’t be trifled with. Her unyielding spirit and self-assuredness are what have endeared her to many, and young girls have always admired these qualities in her.

Despite facing difficulties alongside Jafar, Jasmine manages to escape danger, thanks to Aladdin and the Genie’s assistance. With her love by her side, she goes on to live blissfully ever after. Pioneering her character during that era, Disney made a bold move by featuring leading ladies of diverse ethnicities, aiming to appeal to a broader spectrum – a decision that proved successful.

22. Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty)

Maleficent represents one of Disney’s classic female antagonists, debuting in the 1959 animated film Sleeping Beauty. Although she shares some characteristics with the Evil Queen from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Maleficent is a unique figure, demonstrating ruthless, malevolent, and selfish traits. Compared to the Evil Queen, Maleficent is more cunning and intelligent, which adds an extra layer of terror but also makes her a more enduring cultural icon.

In more recent times, I believe Maleficent has been given a deeper understanding (of her character) as she starred in her own live-action film titled “Maleficent.” This role was played by Angelina Jolie, and as a result, Maleficent’s popularity resurfaced, reminiscent of the admiration she garnered during the 20th century.

21. Turanga Leela (Futurama)

In the 2000s, we were introduced to numerous outstanding female characters, among them was Turanga Leela from the widely-acclaimed animated series Futurama. As the commander of the spaceship Planet Express and an unconventional leader of her crew, Turanga Leela stands out as one of the most memorable characters.

She’s a confident, determined woman who prioritizes her career over leisure activities, displaying great courage and strength. Her character arc across Futurama captivated many young viewers, and her endearing romance with Fry is one of the show’s most charming aspects.

20. Powerpuff Girls (The Powerpuff Girls)

It’s evident that choosing just one character from this fantastic trio – Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup – isn’t feasible. They are a team of artificially created superhuman children, harnessing their powers to combat evil in the beloved Cartoon Network series that gained immense popularity throughout the 1990s and 2000s. This iconic cartoon remains one of the most famous animated shows ever made.

As a devoted fan, I’d like to share that Professor Utonium, in his creation process, combined three essential ingredients: spice, sugar, and everything nice. However, an unintentional addition of Chemical X endowed the girls with extraordinary powers. Each girl possesses a unique charm, making them stand out as some of the most beloved female cartoon characters ever. They were always cool, intriguing, and, above all, served as an exceptional model for children on television – at least, they did to me.

19. Elastigirl (The Incredibles)

Cartoons have often featured remarkable female characters (as evidenced by this extensive list), often depicting young girls or women who served as excellent role models for kids. Interestingly, mothers are frequently cast as secondary characters in these narratives. However, Elasticgirl stands out as a unique exception, being both a devoted mother and a superhero, tirelessly working to aid her Incredibles family.

She consistently provided assistance, and her ability to balance family and superhero duties as a manager is commendable; indeed, Elasticgirl is undeniably deserving of inclusion on this list solely for this reason.

18. Moana (Moana)

In a list showcasing top female animated characters, it’s Moana from the eponymous film who takes the next spot. A beloved Disney character in recent times, Moana was introduced as a new Disney Princess. Her unique cultural heritage captivated audiences right away.

Hailing from the village of Motunui, a South Pacific island where each leader is successor to the previous one, Moana’s life is characterized by a desire for maritime adventures. However, her longing to be near the ocean clashes with her role as a young chieftain and her wish for a tranquil sea existence. Her destiny involves rescuing the world by returning an essential artifact to a lava deity. Moana’s tale, marked by her connections with her parents and nature, is noteworthy and worthy of inclusion in such lists.

17. Anna (Frozen)

In 2013, a Disney film became globally popular, leaving audiences captivated by its catchphrases, quotes, and memorable tunes from the hit animated movie Frozen, predominantly sung by two main characters: Anna and Elsa. Introduced in the same year, Anna’s character was a breath of fresh air. From the very start, she embodied optimism, energy, and perkiness, yet also displayed awkwardness that made her incredibly relatable to many girls everywhere.

Yet, Anna remains one of the top-tier cartoon characters from the last decade due to her unwavering affection for her sister Elsa. The bond between these two sisters is a central force behind Frozen’s success, making Anna an ideal candidate for this list.

16. Velma (Scooby-Doo)

One iconic character from the annals of pop culture, Velma Dinkley, hails from the celebrated Scooby-Doo series, joining the ranks of the original Scooby gang that gained popularity in 1969. Known for her cleverness and unique personality traits, Velma has endeared herself to fans over the years.

Absolutely, the Scooby-Doo series remains well-known and thriving today. In the latest version of the show, Velma’s sexual orientation was revealed as queer, a development that many fans had long suspected given their speculation about Velma’s character being “queer” since the live-action movies. Even prior to this disclosure, Velma was a highly respected character among young girls, and they continue to admire her to this day.

15. Marge Simpson (The Simpsons)

For nearly three decades, The Simpsons, an iconic animated TV show, has graced our screens. It introduced us to beloved characters that are now ingrained in modern pop culture, with one female character rising to particular prominence. Marge Simpson is the wife of Homer Simpson, a quintessential American man who seems incomplete without her by his side. Marge is not just a mother to Maggie, Lisa, and Bart, each with their unique idiosyncrasies that often land them in trouble; she also demonstrates time and again that she’s much more than a caregiver.

Marge Simpson is iconic in her own way, which is why she is on this list.

14. Elsa (Frozen)

Previously, we talked about Elsa’s sister from Frozen. It’s worth noting that unlike her sister Anna, Elsa carries a unique struggle and must overcome various challenges in order to find happiness.

In a more straightforward and engaging manner: Born with exceptional abilities and a heavy burden, Elsa found it necessary to separate from her sister Anna, particularly following the unfortunate incident. Nevertheless, as she embraced self-love and acceptance of her powers, Elsa demonstrated that anyone dedicated to personal growth and overcoming fears can accomplish anything remarkable. Given their unbreakable bond, both sisters are deserving of inclusion on this list, reflecting the heartwarming sibling relationship showcased in Frozen.

Moreover, unlike most Disney films, Elsa didn’t develop a romantic relationship by the end of the story, instead allowing the audience to delve deeper into her character.

13. She-Ra (She-Ra and the Princesses of Power)

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I’d have to say that Masters of the Universe ranks among the greatest cartoons from the past few decades, particularly during the 80s. The arrival of She-Ra: Princess of Power in 1985 was initially aimed at younger viewers, but it quickly became a sensation. Fast forward to today, Netflix has brought back this beloved series in a modern reboot called She-Ra and the Princesses of Power. This revamped version turned out to be a massive success, and Adora’s character development in the show stands tall among the most compelling television narratives.

She strives to transform into a guardian for Etheria, re-establish bonds with the former Princess Alliance, and combat the malevolent Horde that endangers tranquility. Simultaneously, Adora grapples with personal problems such as her constant urge to put others before herself and mend her crucial relationship with her childhood companion Catra. In recent years, Adora has emerged as one of the most captivating cartoon characters.

12. Merida (Brave)

In the realm of Disney-Pixar’s 2012 animation, I found myself captivated by none other than Merida. When this enchanting film premiered, showcasing its cast of characters, it was a breath of fresh air, offering a stunning portrayal of Scotland’s rich culture.

Simultaneously, Merida stood out for being a fearless, daring, and rebellious young lady – traits typically reserved for male characters in Disney productions. However, unlike the damsel in distress trope, Merida was a determined girl with clear ambitions. Moreover, she had a supportive family, thereby avoiding the common tragic-no-family backstory stereotypes often found in Disney stories. In summary, Merida is an exceptional female character who exudes coolness, badassery, and is one of the most well-rounded Disney heroines from the past two decades.

11. Kim Possible (Kim Possible)

One fantastic animated series Disney produced is undeniably Kim Possible. Broadcast from 2002 to 2007, it introduced one of the most captivating cartoon characters – Kim Possible herself. This remarkable high school student doubles as a freelance problem-solver, deploying her spy skills to assist those in distress.

Apart from her abilities as a spy, she exudes an impressive level of self-assurance, resilience, courage, and strength, which earned her admiration among the teenagers of that time. It’s worth noting that she wasn’t just a stereotypically flawless female character, but rather a complex individual with her own struggles, given that she was a teenager who regularly put herself in harm’s way to save others.

10. Korra (The Legend of Korra)

Among the characters on this list, Korra stands out as one I particularly admire. She is the main character in The Legend of Korra, the sequel to the acclaimed Avatar: The Last Airbender. Raava selects her as the next Avatar following Aang, which gives her a challenging role both within the series and among its audience.

It’s been challenging for Korra to step into Aang’s shoes, given his immense popularity among Avatar fans. Even after a decade, Korra’s character continues to face criticism. However, what viewers may not have fully grasped back in 2012 is that no character can be flawless, despite the labeling of Korra as a “Mary Sue” for years. Instead, Korra’s portrayal as a teenager transitioning into the role of Avatar offers an engaging and intriguing narrative, paving the way for substantial character growth and development.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’d like to highlight one show that truly stands out – The Legend of Korra animated series. This masterpiece offers an astounding portrayal of its characters, rich lore, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique blend of diverse cultures. Among these wonders, the character of Korra particularly resonates with me. Her dynamic transformation has revolutionized the way we perceive cartoon characters, making her a must-mention on any list worth its salt.

9. Daria Morgendorffer (Daria)

Among the characters listed, Daria Morgendorffer stands out as incredibly laid-back and stylish. She’s the lead character from the MTV animated series titled “Daria,” and her personality and attitude are not often portrayed in television shows.

She’s “tired of it all,” and her sarcastic nature, perspective on life, and sharp intellect are complemented by her disengaged demeanor, making her character development in the TV series intriguing. Daria differs significantly from previous portrayals, which may bother some viewers, but most find her appealing precisely because of this change.

8. Lisa Simpson (The Simpsons)

Among the main characters in the popular TV show “The Simpsons,” Lisa, who serves as the middle child in the Simpson household, stands out for her intellect and drive. She’s often recognized as the wisest and most driven among her siblings, and although she differs significantly from her family members, her love for them remains strong.

Her ambition revolves around improving the world and holding the title as the first female President of the United States, intending to utilize this role positively. Such aspirations occasionally lead to conflicts with her contemporaries and certain adults who may be less enlightened, but these experiences serve to educate Lisa and drive her to strive for even greater achievements.

7. Toph (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

One notable character from the Avatar universe is Toph Beifong, who stands out among the supporting cast as one of the coolest. Her abilities as both an earthbender and metalbender are impressive, but it’s her personality that truly resonates with most Avatar fans. Alongside Sokka and Zuko, Toph was a favorite among viewers of the Avatar series. Moreover, she gave us two strong and capable offspring, Su and Lin Beifong, in The Legend of Korra.

In the captivating realm of The Last Airbender, it’s Toph who steals the show with her unparalleled character depth. As a blind earthbender, her journey before and after joining Team Avatar is nothing short of mesmerizingly portrayed. Her fiery attitude, unyielding stubbornness, and an air of confidence that only a select few can pull off as effortlessly as Toph, make her a standout choice for this list. Simply put, she’s a character not to be missed!

6. Ahsoka Tano (Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Among the top-tier Star Wars productions in the past two decades, “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” stands out – an animated film and TV series that significantly expanded the Star Wars universe. It has earned a place among the most cherished content produced by Star Wars, an accomplishment made all the more impressive given today’s high standards. Ahsoka Tano, a Torgruta and Anakin Skywalker’s ex-padawan, is a character that fans have grown particularly fond of. She also allies with Kanan Jarrus’ rebel cell.

She possesses an inherent power and a profound bond with the Force, yet her endearing personality is what truly captivates. She can be sarcastic, assertive, and impulsive, but also compassionate, selfless, and devoted to the welfare of others. Ahsoka Tano’s upcoming TV series on Disney+ in 2023 has left us eagerly anticipating its arrival.

5. Princess Fiona (Shrek)

It’s quite possible that Princess Fiona might come as a surprise to some on this list, but for me, she undeniably belongs here. After all, Fiona is one of the central figures in the well-known Shrek series, where the ogre Shrek rescues her and eventually wins her heart. Her backstory aligns perfectly with the rest of the fairy tale satire, Shrek, but this doesn’t diminish the depth of her character.

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– Some may find it surprising to see Princess Fiona on this list, but for me, she truly deserves a spot here. As one of the main characters in the famous Shrek franchise, where Shrek the ogre saves her and eventually falls in love with her, Fiona’s character is as rich as any fairy tale heroine. Her background story fits right in with the rest of the parody, but it doesn’t take away from her individuality.

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– While some might be taken aback by Princess Fiona’s presence on this list, I firmly believe she deserves to be here. After all, as a key character in the widely acclaimed Shrek series, where Shrek the ogre rescues her and eventually falls for her, Fiona’s persona is every bit as captivating as any fairy tale princess. Her backstory complements the satire of traditional fairy tales, but it doesn’t detract from her unique character traits.

In the initial film, Fiona’s hidden truth significantly impacts the storyline, and it ultimately turns out to be a positive aspect as she opts for love over apprehension. The bond between Fiona and Shrek is heartwarming, yet it’s crucial to note that Fiona embodies practicality, independence, and strong-willedness throughout the narrative.

4. Storm (X-Men)

As a passionate movie reviewer, let me share my thoughts on one standout character from the legendary mutant ensemble, the X-Men: Ororo Monroe, or more famously recognized as Storm. This remarkable woman graced our screens in the ’90s animated series that bore the X-Men name. Over the years, she’s proven to be an enduring symbol of female strength and resilience, cementing her position as one of the most iconic females ever created.

In the cartoon show, she emerges as a competent leader and a reliable individual within the X-Men team. Her teammates, including Charles Xavier, rely on her due to her level-headedness in most circumstances. She truly embodies the balance of the mutant group, and the 1990s animated series significantly increased her popularity among fans, making her a beloved character.

3. Katara (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

Katara, a character from the Avatar: The Last Airbender series, is widely regarded as one of the standout female characters of recent times. While the show itself was generally well-written, Katara’s character development was particularly noteworthy and appreciated by many fans throughout the series.

Due to the Hundred Year War and the Fire Nation’s invasion, they lost their family and were forced to leave home. As such, Katara assumed multiple roles – mother, sister, and a responsible group member. Though Sokka was caring, it was Katara who took on significant responsibilities which led some viewers to perceive her as stern. However, her ability to adapt and be understanding towards Team Avatar members ultimately contributed to Aang’s victory over Fire Lord Ozai and the world’s salvation. Despite the mixed opinions about her character, Katara is complex, multifaceted, and truly admirable.

2. Mulan (Mulan)

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated the grace and decorum of Disney princesses. But when Mulan graced our screens in 1998, she was a refreshing change of pace. Unlike her counterparts, Mulan stood out as unique and distinct. She was a kind-hearted warrior with a desire to savor her youth just a bit longer before settling down for marriage and family life. Against her family’s expectations, Mulan chose to fight the Huns, not just to save her father from imminent death, but also to protect the honor of her ancestors.

In spite of being extremely afraid during her adventure, Mulan demonstrated remarkable courage and tenacity, ultimately triumphing over her fear.

1. Wonder Woman (Wonder Woman)

Among all female characters, none are as timelessly iconic as Wonder Woman. Across comics, movies, and television shows, she has been embraced by audiences worldwide. However, it’s the DC Animated Universe that has introduced some remarkable versions of Wonder Woman over the years. Whether through animated films or series, Diana has consistently proven herself to be a truly captivating character. Beyond her appearances in cartoons, Diana’s influence extends far and wide, making her an ideal choice for this list.

Diana, a mighty Amazon, possesses the power to vanquish formidable adversaries; however, her complex character has the potential to shatter numerous hearts – both Superman and Steve Trevor are well aware of this.

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2025-05-24 06:18