(according to me)
The Rules
This list attempts to avoid some of the bigger more obvious names, opting to rather focus on generally lesser praised characters. This means there is no Mickey Mouse, no Bugs Bunny, no Homer Simpson, no Eric Cartman, no Stewie Griffin, no Beavis, no Butthead, no Snoopy, no Superman, no Spiderman, no Batman, no SpongeBob SquarePants, no Garfield, no Snoopy, no Archie, no Disney princesses, no Popeye, none of them.
Puppets did not qualify. This means there is no Baby Sinclair, no Greg the Bunny, no Sesame Street, no Muppet Show, none of them.
Print/Static characters did not qualify. This means there is no Alfred E Neuman, no Joe Camel, no Kilroy, no Fail Whale, no Dr Seuss, none of them.
Real life actors in costumes did not qualify. This means there is no Alf, no Teletubbies, no Barney, no Honey Monster, no Bananas in Pyjamas, no Ronald McDonald, none of them.
Only one character per title was considered. This means that no matter how many good entries could have come from any given series/movie/game/etc, only the best one was included, the rest were not.
Is this ok with you? If not, fuck right off then. If so, please make yourself at home, homie:
50. Wally
“Hi, I’m Wally, and this is my dog, Woof. We’re from the future.”
Created by: Martin Handford
Voiced by: Townsend Coleman
First Appearance: Where's Wally (book, 1987); Where's Wally? season 1 episode 1 "My Left Fang" (series, 1991)
Related Companies: Sei Young Animation Co. Ltd.; The Waldo Film Company; DIC Entertainment; Hit Entertainment
Known as Waldo in the States, Valli in Iceland, Willy in Norway, Charlie in France, and just about a different name wherever you may be, this character's gimmick was that you had to find him first. Hidden within a sea of assorted creatures and red herrings, it's no wonder that kids and adults alike had so much fun with this dude that his company raped his image for as much money as possible, going on to front a (s)hit TV show, a comic strip, and even some video games. I could never find him and gave up years ago.
49. Itt
Gibberish Character
Created by: David Levy
Voiced by: John Stephenson; Pat Fraley
First Appearance: The Addams Family Pilot/New Scooby-Doo Movies season 1 episode 3 “Wednesday is Missing/Scooby-Doo Meets The Addams Family” (series, 1972)
Related Companies: Hanna-Barbera; CBS; NBC
Speaking high-pitched nonsense and known only to have “roots” underneath his hair, this Addams Family cousin is said to be highly talented in the areas of acting, singing and marriage counseling. Not only this, but he has an IQ of over 300 which is why he works as a secret agent on occasion, whilst still living the carefree bachelor lifestyle with many many female companions. Rumour has it, he possesses "the eye of an eagle, plus a few of his own,” but hides these under dark sunglasses as to avoid being pestered by eager fans asking for his autograph.
48. Plank
Silent Character
Created by: Danny Antonucci
First Appearance: Ed, Edd n Eddy season 1 episode 1 “The Ed-Touchables” (series, 1999)
Related Companies: a.k.a. Cartoon; Yeson Animation Studios; Funbag Animation Studios; Cartoon Network
Plank is best known as the imaginary friend of Jonny 2x4... OR IS HE?? This very question breeds heavy debate amongst serious fans, pointing out the ample evidence against it, such as: the occasions Plank has moved by himself; his distinct personality independent of (and with some evil control over) Johnny; and that no other character in the series considers him to be figmental friend. Regardless, he is a piece of wood with a superhero alter-ego named Splinter the Wonderwood, and that’s cool enough for me to leave him right here.
47. Moomintroll
"One can't be too dangerous if they like to eat pancakes. Especially with jam on it."
Created by: Tove Jansson
Voiced by: Kyôko Kishida; Peter Radise; Rabbe Smedlund (among others)
First Appearance: The Moomins and the Great Flood (novel, 1945); Moomin season 1 episode 1 “The Secret of the Silk Hat” (series, 1969)
Related Companies: Drawn and Quarterly; Tokyo Movie Shinsha; Mushi Productions; Network Fuji TV
Moomintroll is such a loveable and good natured fella, that he is hailed as the perfect fictional role model for any kiddie on our planet. Which is why his résumé of media boasts books, comics, numerous television shows, films, music releases, plane deco, an art museum, an interactive playroom, a theme park, a €10 Finnish commemorative coin, and the asteroid 58345 Moomintroll named in his honour. Bless.
46. La Linea
Mostly Gibberish Character
Created by: Osvaldo Cavandoli
Voiced by: Carlo Bonomi
First Appearance: La Linea season 1 episode 1 (shorts, 1971)
Related Companies: B. Del Vita; HDH Film/TV
The real genius behind these 2 minute Italian shorts, was the brilliant use of fourth wall breakage between the simple character and the artist himself. The live action hand creating solutions (and problems) for this little dude using nothing more than a pencil has since been imitated countless times, like in Jamiroquai's video (Don't) Give Hate a Chance, or the British version of Whose Line is it Anyway?. My pictures have never moved by themselves :(
45. Mr Bump
“Oh, poopity poop! You'll never learn!”
Created by: Roger Hargreaves
Voiced by: Arthur Lowe
First Appearance: Mr. Bump (novel, 1971); The Mr Men Show season 1 episode 1 “Physical” (series, 2008)
Related Companies: Chorion Renegade Animation; Cartoon Network; 20th Century Fox; 21 Laps Entertainment; Sanrio
With such an accident-prone nature, always falling into holes and knocking into things, Mr Bump has been said to be even more clumsy than Mr. Clumsy himself. This careless behaviour has cost him many a job opportunity over the years, but I am happy to report that he is currently employed in an apple orchard, knocking the fruit off trees freely, and becoming quite good at it too.
44. Pac-Man
Originally a Silent Character
Created by: Tōru Iwatani
First Appearance: Pac-Man (arcade game, 1980)
Related Companies: Namco; Namco Midway
Based on a pizza and originally called Puck-Man (changed in fear of vandals altering the “P” to an “F”), this character is a global phenomenon, appearing in 30 licensed games; clothing; a television series; as Namco’s mascot; and once as a fully functional Google doodle. In fact, a study has shown that 94% of American consumers recognise him, surpassing Mario and Sonic as the most famous game character of all time. Hell, even Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto claims this character as his favourite. Furthermore, Pacman has been awarded 8 Guinness World Records, while Weird Al Yankovic and Aphex Twin have written songs about him. Fuck the new age incarnations though, they ruin it, it's all about the old school for life, yo.
43. Him
“All I did was take over. It was easy!”
Created by: Craig McCracken
Voiced by: Tom Kane
First Appearance: The Powerpuff Girls season 1 episode 3 “Octi Evil” (series, 1998)
Related Companies: Cartoon Network Studios; Kids' WB
Inspired by Chief Blue Meanie from the 1968 Beatles film Yellow Submarine, the androgynous Him is shown to feed off the negativity of others in order to grow larger and substantially more powerful. And word on the street is that this character represents Satan himself, but this fact was never explicitly stated in the show because, c'mon, children.
42. Sheldon
“Are you trying to scare me?”
Created by: Jim Davis
Voiced by: Frank Welker
First Appearance: U.S. Acres (comic strip, 1986); Garfield and Friends season 1 episode 1 “Wanted: Wade” (series, 1988)
Related Companies: Film Roman; Paws, Inc.; Hanna-Barbera; CBS
Do not be fooled by the claustrophobic lifestyle this introverted character appears to portray, as this egg works as the perfect living space, complete with a microwave, pinball machine, table tennis table, air conditioning and a cleaning lady who comes once a week. And even when confronted about his reluctance to hatch, Sheldon’s reasons are flawless, stating that wherever he goes he is at home; he doesn’t need haircuts or umbrellas; and nobody can call him a chicken. However, in one episode he did finally hatch, only to reveal another shell underneath. Heh, clever.
41. Magic Broom(s)
Silent Character
Created by: Joe Grant; Dick Huemer
First Appearance: Fantasia part 3 “The Sorcerer's Apprentice” (short, 1940)
Related Companies: Walt Disney Productions; RKO Radio Pictures
Ordinary brooms brought to life by magic, and then promptly flooding a building with water was a freaky concept for me in my youth. I mean, the part where the sorcerer’s apprentice (Mickey Mouse) becomes so frustrated that he chops one in half? And then the broken pieces grow into two separate brooms?!? Terrifying!! Others agree with me too, as the popularity of this character earned it a spot in Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Darkwing Duck, 4 video games, and in most Disney Parks, scaring little kids all around the world.
40. Sackboy
“I Like to Boogie.”
Created by: David Smith; Mark Healey; Francis Pang; Kareem Ettouney
Voiced by: Kenneth Young
First Appearance: LittleBigPlanet (video game, 2008)
Related Companies: Media Molecule; Sony Computer Entertainment
Running around in five games narrated by Stephen Fry, Sackboy is a Sackperson (of whom Sackgirl and other more gender-neutral alternatives do exist, chill) who solves user-generated puzzles which are all brainy-teasy and stuff. This concept has gone on to win numerous awards, mostly because these guys are said to be stuffed with fluff and ice cream. CUTE OVERLOAD, AM I RIGHT?
39. Duffman
"Duffman can never die, only the actors who play him."
Created by: Matt Groening
Voiced by: Hank Azaria
First Appearance: The Simpsons season 9 episode 1 "The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson" (series, 1997)
Related Companies: Gracie Films; 20th Century Fox Television; Distributor 20th Television
Based on Budweiser's Bud Man, this criminally underrated Simpsons character works as the mascot for the fictional Duff Beer Corporation (which itself was named after the Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan). But I didn't select him for this, or his over-enthusiasm, or even his suggestive pelvic thrusts, but rather because he is a dyslexic gay Jewish man, which is pretty complex for a Toon. That said, apparently there are more than one Duffmans, but that’s kept a secret in order to not "disillusion children".
38. Pepé Le Pew
“I am the broken heart of love. I am the disillusioned. I wish to enlist in the Foreign Legion so I may forget. Take me!”
Created by: Chuck Jones; Michael Maltese
Voiced by: Mel Blanc
First Appearance: Looney Tunes “Odor-able Kitty” (short, 1945)
Related Companies: Warner Bros.; Harman and Ising Pictures; Leon Schlesinger Studios
Falling in love during the Paris springtime is easy, even if just with a cat who wears a deceptive white stripe down her back, ask Pepé. And having appeared in his own shorts, as well as episodes of Tiny Toon Adventures, Histeria, and Animaniacs, I think the popularity of this character stems from that very reason, as many of us know a ladies man exactly like the skunk, assuming their infatuations are requited, not taking no for an answer, and ultimately only loving themselves far too much. That might be me, actually.
37. The Red Guy
“Plastic surgery isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life.”
Created by: David Feiss
Voiced by: Charlie Adler
First Appearance: Cow and Chicken pilot (from What A Cartoon! series, 1995)
Related Companies: Hanna-Barbera Cartoons; Cartoon Network Studios
It’s surprising that such a blatant display of buttocks was approved for a children’s show, but it was, as The Red Guy freely used his bum cheeks as a mode of transport like it ain't no thing, donning all sorts of interesting disguises whilst doing so, and all with the sole intent of bringing harm to Cow or Chicken. But why? This has never been established, except for his occasional admittance that it was “something bad that happened to me when I was 9 years old.”
36. Betty Boop
"Don't take my Boop-Oop-A-Doop away!"
Created by: Max Fleischer
Voiced by: Margie Hines (original, among 13 others)
First Appearance: Dizzy Dishes (short, 1930)
Related Companies: Fleischer Studios; Paramount Pictures
Perhaps too big of a star to be here, but this list didn't feel complete without the Marilyn Monroe of the Toon world. Originally an anthropomorphic French poodle, Betty's sexual elements made her very popular with adult audiences, and as a result, she struggled against the mid-1930 laws suppressing suggestive content, yet still came out the other side as the sex-symbol of the Depression era. Hence why she appeared in Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Popeye. Hence why she was voted the 2nd sexiest cartoon character of all time somewhere I read. And hence why one day I will get a tattoo of her on my ribs. All hail The Queen of the Animated Screen, you better recognize.
35. Abe
“My name is Abe. I was employee of the year. Now I’m dead meat."
Created by: Lorne Lanning
Voiced by: Lorne Lanning
First Appearance: Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee (video game, 1997)
Related Companies: Oddworld Inhabitants; GT Interactive
Named after Abraham from the Old Testament, it’s always refreshing to meet a gentle video game hero who doesn’t rely on weaponry to solve his problems, but rather utilizing telekinesis to complete assorted puzzles without hurting anyone. It’s no wonder then that Abe was highly received by critics upon his release, earning much praise from GameSpot, GameDaily, Complex.com, and GamesRadar. He eventually went on to become one of PlayStation’s unofficial mascots too, so well done there.
34. Woodstock
Gibberish Character
Created by: Charles M. Schulz
Voiced by: Bill Melendez
First Appearance: Peanuts (comic strip, 1967); Snoopy, Come Home (film, 1972)
Related Companies: United Feature Syndicate; Cinema Center Films; Lee Mendelson Films; National General Pictures
Despite being introduced in 1967, Woodstock wasn't named until the early 70’s, when Schulz was reading Life magazine and came across an article about the hippie festival of the same name, and decided this was the perfect moniker for his little yellow guy. In fact, this species-less bird was originally a girl before the decision, but Snoopy didn't seem to mind the sex change. Woodstock was his BFF, everything else was a minor detail. D'ahw!
33. Thirty-Thirty
“You know, if you walked a mile in my horse shoes, maybe you'd understand me better.”
Created by: Arthur Nadel; John Grusd; Bob Forward
Voiced by: Ed Gilbert
First Appearance: BraveStarr season 1 episode 1 "The Disappearance of Thirty-Thirty" (series, 1987)
Related Companies: Filmation; Group W Productions; DreamWorks Classics
The last survivor of the Equestroids ancient civilization, this character works as Marshall BraveStarr’s trusty techno horse partner, armed with a quick temper and a massive energy rifle named “Sara Jane”. Reportedly modeled on David Lee Roth, and roughly as strong as “Strength of the Bear”, is why this law-enforcing hero was such an important factor in carrying this animated Space Western straight to the stars (hilarious pun most definitely intended).
32. Ducky
“Yep Yep Yep!”
Created by: Judy Freudberg; Tony Geiss
Voiced by: Judith Barsi (original, amongst others)
First Appearance: The Land Before Time (film, 1988)
Related Companies: Sullivan Bluth Studios; Amblin Entertainment; Lucasfilm (uncredited); Universal Pictures
While I could talk about the amicable, optimistic and naive character of Ducky for hours, it’s 10 year-old voice actress Judith Barsi’s story which really hits the heart valves. As her career progressed after this very film, her father József became increasingly abusive, jealous and paranoid, drinking heavily and threatening her life so many times that she began to develop anti-social patterns, such as: weight gain, plucking her eyelashes, and pulling out her cat’s whiskers. When her mother eventually filed for divorce, József murdered his wife, and then shot Judith in the head while she was sleeping. He spent the next two days wandering aimlessly around the house, then burnt the place down, shooting himself in the head immediately afterwards. Such a tragic end to a huge voice talent who had so much more to offer the world. RIP, Judith.
31. The BFG
“But human beans is squishing each other all the time. They is shootling guns and going up in aerioplanes to drop their bombs on each other's heads every week. Human beans is always killing other human beans.”
Created by: Roald Dahl
Voiced by: David Jason
First Appearance: The BFG (novel, 1982); The BFG (film, 1989)
Related Companies: Jonathan Cape; Penguin Books; Cosgrove Hall Films
It’s hard to imagine childhood gold any richer than this. Here is a huge sensitive man with ears so large that he can hear and collect dreams, destroying the bad ones and distributing the good ones to deserving children - not to mention also protecting them from the much meaner giants who intend to eat their insides. Add this with the fact that he farts a lot, and we are left with a magical tale which will be remembered fondly by any adult born in the 80’s.
30. Earthworm Jim
"A dream sequence! Guuuuuhroovy! Bring on the dancing girls!"
Created by: Doug TenNapel; David Perry
Voiced by: Doug TenNapel; Dan Castellaneta
First Appearance: Earthworm Jim (video game, 1994)
Related Companies: Shiny Entertainment; Playmates Interactive Entertainment; Sega Mega Drive/Genesis; AKOM; Kids’ WB; Universal Cartoon Studios
It was originally in a 2D sidescrolling platform game that a super-suit fell on this ordinary earthworm, turning him into a superhero on a mission to save Princess What’s-Her-Name and do other stuff as well. Good concept, no? So good, in fact, that the franchise went on to spawn various sequel games, a TV series, a comic book, and toys, whilst winning many awards along the way. Not to mention all the other fantastic characters my list could have easily picked from the story, such as: Evil the Cat, Queen Slug-for-a-Butt, and Professor Monkey-for-a-Head. Gosh, calm down.
29. Pillsbury Doughboy
“Hoo-Hoo!”
Created by: Rudy Perz; Martin Nodell
Voiced by: Paul Frees; Jeff Bergman; JoBe Cerny
First Appearance: Pillsbury Company (commercial, 1965)
Related Companies: Pillsbury Company
Starring in over 600 commercials as the Pillsbury Company mascot, Poppin’ Fresh (real name) has been referenced in multiple other universes, including South Park, The Simpsons, The Big Bang Theory, The Golden Girls, Glee, and The Far Side. But I just dig the way he chuckles every time that human finger pokes his stomach. Gives me ideas.
28. Squidward Quincy Tentacles
"Why must every 11 minutes of my life be filled with misery?”
Created by: Stephen Hillenburg
Voiced by: Rodger Bumpass
First Appearance: SpongeBob SquarePants season 1 episode 1 "Help Wanted" (series, 1999)
Related Companies: United Plankton Pictures; Nickelodeon Animation Studios; MTV Networks International
A complex character is this one: cynical and grouchy, yearning for a more glamorous lifestyle as a praised painter or clarinet composer; instead working as the Krusty Krab cashier, miserable and self-loathing, blaming everyone for his misfortune other than himself. But all that aside, the most important question still remains: is Squidward a squid, or an octopus? As it turns out, he is actually an octopus, but creator Stephen Hillenburg stated that Octoward failed to "sound catchy" enough. Lol, it's true.
27. Mr. Skullhead
Silent Character
Created by: Tom Ruegger
First Appearance: Tiny Toon Adventures season 2 episode 13 “Take Elmyra Please” (series, 1992)
Related Companies: Warner Bros. Animation; Amblin Entertainment; Fox Kids
Despite having first appeared in Tiny Toon Adventures, Mr. Skullhead is perhaps better known as the “Good Idea, Bad Idea” guy in Animaniacs. Narrated by Tom Bodett, these segments usually granted the character some enjoyable mundane activity, shortly before falling victim to an unfortunate incident and injuring himself in the process. Such a sacrifice just to teach our kiddies the dangers of the world - it's highly admirable, like Jesus or something.
26. Baraka
"They will taste your flesh!"
Created by: John Tobias
Voiced by: Dan Washington; Bob Carter
First Appearance: Mortal Kombat II (arcade game, 1993)
Related Companies: Midway; Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
With a name that ironically means “blessed” (Arabic) or “peace” (Swahili), and a body based on a Nosferatu mask mixed with Marvel’s own Wolverine, the scariest aspect of Baraka is that he is part of the Tarkatan race, in which they all look exactly the same. Meaning: there are thousands of these fucking things! No wonder GameDaily rated him as the 12th Top Badie, as well as the 3rd Ugliest Character Of All Time, dude's freaky.
25. Chairface Chippendale
“I haven't always had friends like you, because I was born... different.“
Created by: Ben Edlund
Voiced by: Tony Jay
First Appearance: The Tick issue 7 “The Moon Menace” (comic, 1990); The Tick season 1 episode 2 “The Tick vs. Chairface Chippendale" (series, 1994)
Related Companies: New England Comics; Sunbow Entertainment; Graz Entertainment.inc; Fox Children's Productions
Not too much is known about this cunning criminal, except that he was born with a chair instead of a head, and is very bitter and resentful about this defect. As a result, he turned to crime, rising up the villain chain to become one of The Tick’s most worthy adversaries. But perhaps his greatest achievement came when he attempted to write his name on the moon. He only managed the first 3 letters (CHA), granted, but they stayed there for the remainder of the series, which is still something to be proud of.
24. Krang
"I shouldn't have joined forces with a ninja. Next time I conquer a planet, I'm using an accountant."
Created by: Ryan Brown; Steve Murphy; Kevin Eastman; Peter Laird
Voiced by: Pat Fraley
First Appearance: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles season 1 episode 2 "Enter the Shredder" (series, 1987)
Related Companies: Archie Comics; Murakami Wolf Swenson; Fred Wolf Films; Mirage Studios; Surge Licensing
Banished from Dimension X and stripped of his body, the genius Krang was lucky enough to meet Shredder, who helped him build a human-shaped exo-suit which could produce weapons and wings at will. Such an unsettling concept is why this character was one of the main Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles supervillains, predominantly featuring in the comics, animated series, video games, and even some collectable figurines. He's kinda cute too, in that exposed brain sorta way (which is a thing).
23. John Herbert
"And don't you mouth off to me, or I'm going to slap you right in your penis."
Created by: Mike Henry; Seth MacFarlane
Voiced by: Mike Henry
First Appearance: Family Guy season 3 episode 12 "To Love and Die in Dixie" (series, 2001)
Related Companies: Fuzzy Door Productions; 20th Century Fox Television
The original concept for Herbert came with the voice. First used by Mike Henry to scold Family Guy writers when they couldn’t come up with new ideas, its distinctive high pitched mumbles and whistles were so hilarious to Seth MacFarlane that he adapted the voice into this character. No idea how Herbert evolved into a paedophile with a crippled dog, but I guess that’s show business.
22. Eeyore
"Thanks for noticing me."
Created by: A. A. Milne
Voiced by: Ralph Wright; Peter Cullen; Bud Luckey (amongst others)
First Appearance: Winnie-the-Pooh (novel, 1926); Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (film, 1966)
Related Companies: Publisher Methuen & Co. Ltd.; The Walt Disney Company
As Winnie-the-Pooh’s most gloomy and sarcastic friend, it will always be the Disney adaptation of this onomatopoeically named character which stands out the most in my memory, despite the fact that the Estates of A. A. Milne (including the real Christopher Robin himself) were not always ecstatic about these interpretations. Neither was Eeyore, I'm guessing.
21. Misty
"Sometimes I look at that Psyduck's face and I get a headache."
Created by: Satoshi Tajiri
Voiced by: Rachael Lillis; Michele Knotz; Mayumi Iizuka
First Appearance: Pokémon Red (video game, 1996); Pokémon season 1 episode 1 “Pokémon - I Choose You!” (anime, 1997)
Related Companies: Nintendo; OLM, Inc
Originally a much different design in the video games, it was the anime version of this girl which captured most of our attention - especially the younger female audience, who viewed Misty as a positive role model, neither "butch" nor "dizzily feminine" like most other characters in her genre. Personally, I am in love with her, and one of my biggest dreams is to date a Misty cosplay girl who never breaks character.
20. Turnip-Head
“I had been turned into turnip head.”
Created by: Diana Wynne Jones
Voiced by: Crispin Freeman (as the Prince)
First Appearance: Howl's Moving Castle (as the scarecrow; novel, 1986); Howl's Moving Castle (film, 2004)
Related Companies: Studio Ghibli; Greenwillow Books; Methuen; Toho; Walt Disney Pictures
Initially a silent character, this scarecrow-type creature may have been creepily fixated on our hero Sophie, but justified it by being such a helpful bloke, like when he found her that cane, or lending her a hand with the washing, or even breaking himself whilst trying to prevent the group from sliding off a cliff. However, he had ulterior motives, only being so nice in hopes for a kiss, which would break his curse, turning him back into a Prince and allowing him to save his kingdom from the war. Off you go then.
19. GIR
“Can I be a mongoose dog?”
Created by: Jhonen Vasquez
Voiced by: Rosearik Rikki Simons
First Appearance: Invader Zim season 1 episode 1 “The Nightmare Begins” (series, 2001)
Related Companies: Nickelodeon; Nicktoons
This dimwitted robot made entirely from trash items is best known as Invader Zim’s side-kick, standing in great contrast to his alien master's distate for human culture, living a much more upbeat and friendly existence, and winning an Emmy in the process. But when his dysfunctional eyes turn from green to red, know that he means business. And when he poorly disguises himself as a dog, know he means something else entirely. Did I mention he is a great dancer?
18. Lobo
“I killed every living thing on Czarnia fer fun. I killed Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny an' things that don't even exist.”
Created by: Roger Slifer; Keith Giffen
Voiced by: Brad Garrett
First Appearance: Omega Men issue #3 (comic, 1983); Superman: The Animated Series season 1 episode 9 "The Main Man, Part 1" (series, 1996)
Related Companies: DC Comics
Originally intended as an over-the-top parody of Marvel Comics’ Wolverine, nobody expected this highly violent, womanizing alcoholic to become as popular as he did. But he did. So much so, that the biggest comic book writer of all time, Stan Lee, called Lobo his favourite DC character ever, which is a pretty big fucking deal. This is why Lobo's influence to the comic book universe has been massive since his creation, already having fictional encounters with Superman, Batman, Wolverine, Aquaman, Green Lantern, Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman, Supergirl, Superboy, The Mask and Judge Dredd... to name a few.
17. Hatsune Miku
“Now, drink it! You like it, don't you? Vegetable juice, I've decided. I've decided just now.”
Created by: Kei Garō; Crypton Future Media
Voiced by: Saki Fujita (sampled)
First Appearance: Vocaloid 2 Package (program, 2007)
Related Companies: Crypton Future Media
A very interest entry this one, as 16 year old Hatsune is 100% fan controlled and personality free. She is a singing synthesizer application, allowing musicians to sample her voice and force her to say whatever they want within their own musical creations. Such an original concept proved very popular indeed, as the program sold over 57,500,000 yen worth in 2007, making it the most bought software of the time, and resulting in over 100,000 songs to her name. She has had number one hits, performed sold-out live 3D shows, and has starred in various other unofficial anime and games, pushing her into full-fledged real-life superstardom, above what most fictional characters could ever boast to their name.
16. Katie
"In my world, everyone's pony, and they all eat rainbows and poop out butterflies."
Created by: Cinco Paul; Ken Daurio
Voiced by: Joey King
First Appearance: Horton Hears a Who! (film, 2008)
Related Companies: 20th Century Fox Animation; Blue Sky Studios
While this movie was based on the Dr. Seuss’ book of the same name, Katie unfortunately did not appear in that original version of the story. However, as an abnormally yellow yak with a row of small sharp teeth, I’m sure even the Doctor would approve.
15. Mr. Herbert Garrison
“Well, I’m sorry, Wendy. But I just don’t trust anything that bleeds for five days and doesn’t die.”
Created by: Trey Parker; Matt Stone
Voiced by: Trey Parker
First Appearance: South Park season 1 episode 1 “Cartman Gets an Anal Probe” (series, 1997)
Related Companies: Comedy Central
Mr. Garrison is a complex individual, having gone from a vicious homophobe; to a closet homosexual; to a pedophile; to a proud homosexual; to having a sex change to become a woman; to turning lesbian; and then back into a homosexual male once again. But with all his sexual identity crises, racist tendencies, and multiple personality disorders, it is interesting to note that the core of all his mental problems stem from childhood molestation issues dealing with his father. That is to say, his dad never molested him, and therefore couldn't have loved him all that much. Oh man, I relate.
14. Spawn
“You sent me to Hell, Jason. I'm here to return the favor.”
Created by: Todd McFarlane
Voiced by: Keith David
First Appearance: Malibu Sun #13 (comic, 1992); Todd McFarlane's Spawn season 1 episode 1 “Burning Visions” (series, 1997)
Related Companies: Image Comics; HBO
Popularity for this character has waned, but back in the day the concept of a dead CIA agent making a deal with the Devil to see his wife one last time (now equipped with a ridiculous list of ever-fluctuating powers and tortured by heartache), was enough to win countless awards and sell millions of comics, as well as going on to become a terrible feature film, an animated series, and a bunch of highly acclaimed toys with quality unchallenged in the industry. In fact, the character was so popular, you may even find him in other unlikely universes, such as with Archie and Sonic The Hedgehog. Hail Satan.
13. Catbus
Silent Character
Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
First Appearance: My Neighbor Totoro (film, 1988)
Related Companies: Studio Ghibli; Toho
With its multiple caterpillar-like legs and Cheshire Cat smile, this is one mode of transport I wouldn’t entirely trust, yet would definitely appreciate it getting me there on time. Leaping over forests and lakes with mininimal effort is just the type of magic only a Ghibli character could achieve, which is why Catbus went on to become a popular plush toy as well as starring in his very own short film Mei and the Kittenbus. More obsessive fans have even modified their cars to look like him, so there’s that too.
12. Hello Kitty
"Happiness comes in all colours of the rainbow!"
Created by: Yuko Shimizu
Voiced by: Tara Charandoff
First Appearance: Vinyl coin purse (1974); Hello Kitty's Furry Tale Theater season 1 episode 1 “The Wizard Of Paws” (series, 1987)
Related Companies: Saniro; CBS; DIC Entertainment; MGM/UA Television
Such a huge staple of global culture, Hello Kitty products are said to fetch $5 billion a year, which isn’t surprising as the phenomenon is featured on school supplies, fashion accessories, dolls, stickers, greeting cards, clothes, toasters, massagers, wines, Visa debit cards, computer equipment, and jets. She even has two Japanese theme parks, a restaurant, and a maternity hospital completely devoted to her, and leads countless animes, TV shows, musical releases and video games. But any doubt to her popularity should be swayed by two interesting events: (1) when Hello Kitty was named the ambassador of Japanese tourism, marking the first time the ministry had appointed a fictional character to the role; and (2) when, in 1999 Hong Kong, the brutal Hello Kitty murder took place, where the killer inserted his victim's head into a Hello Kitty doll after decapitating her. WHERE'S YOUR CHILDHOOD NOW?
11. Jessica Rabbit
"I'm not bad, I'm just drawn that way."
Created by: Gary K. Wolf
Voiced by: Kathleen Turner (speaking); Amy Irving (singing)
First Appearance: Who Censored Roger Rabbit? (novel, 1981); Who Framed Roger Rabbit (film, 1988)
Related Companies: St. Martin’s Press; Walt Disney Productions; Touchstone Pictures; Amblin Entertainment
As Roger’s human-toon wife in the only animated/live action film to win four Academy Awards, this is probably the biggest cartoon sex-symbol of all time. Based on Veronica Lake, Rita Hayworth, Lauren Bacall, Julie London, and Tex Avery's Red Hot Riding Hood; her sultry mannerisms, impossibly exaggerated figure and seductive voice is why Jessica was selected as one of The 100 Greatest Movie Characters of All Time by Empire Magazine; why Jessica was voted in a 1000 person poll as the Sexiest Cartoon Character of All Time; and why people continue to get plastic surgery just to look remotely like her to this day.
10. Emmitt Nervend
Silent Character
Created by: Bruce Timm; Paul Dini
First Appearance: Freakazoid! season 1 episode 1 “Five Day Forecast/The Dance of Doom/Handman” (series, 1995)
Related Companies: Amblin Entertainment; Warner Bros. Animation
An elusive and generally unknown character, Emmitt is featured in every single episode of Freakazoid!, but only for a few frames at a time, playing no important role other than to smile silently at the camera. The end credits of each show reveal how many times Nervend can be spotted during said episode, which grants bored fans something else to do for the rest of their lonely day. It's kinda like Where's Wally, except cooler.
9. Frieza
“I am Frieza, the most powerful being in the Universe. And you are nothing but a monkey.”
Created by: Akira Toriyama
Voiced by: Ryūsei Nakao; Eddie Frierson; Pauline Newstone; Linda Young; Christopher Ayres; Maureen Jones
First Appearance: Dragon Ball Z volume 5 “Planet Namek, Cold and Dark” (manga, 1990); Dragon Ball Z season 2 episode 5 “Brood of Evil” (anime, 1990)
Related Companies: Shueisha; Cartoon Network (Toonami)
It is said that Frieza’s fourth and most powerful form is actually his most basic state, the others merely a result of suppressing the full beast. But even by looking at this character's original structure, all menacing and androgynous and shit, it's no surprise to find out that Toriyama designed Frieza as an amalgamation of what he thought monsters looked like in his youth.
8. The Black Rabbit of Inlè
“You've been feeling tired, haven't you? If you're ready, we might go along now.”
Created by: Richard Adams
Voiced by: Joss Ackland
First Appearance: Watership Down (novel, 1972); Watership Down (film, 1978)
Related Companies: Rex Collings; Studio Nepenthe Productions
As the bunny equivalent of the Grim Reaper, the Moon (Inlé) Rabbit’s sole purpose is to take other rabbits away at their predestined time of death. Folklore has it that he lives in a warren of stone on earth, inhabited by dead bunnies and filled with disease and sadness beyond imagination. Hence why this so-called “kiddies” movie should not be viewed by kiddies at all, because it fucked me up, man. It fucked me up badly.
7. Baby Face
Silent Character
Created by: John Lasseter; Andrew Stanton; Joel Cohen; Alec Sokolow; Joss Whedon
First Appearance: Toy Story (film, 1995)
Related Companies: Walt Disney Pictures; Pixar
Constructed from a baby doll head and an erector set, this character (also known as Spider Baby) is the leader of Sid's mutant toys. But do not be fooled by his terrifying nightmarish qualities, as he is a good guy deep down, fixing other toys and aiding Woody on his quest. He even made a cameo in Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, so don't feel you need to sleep at night with one eye open anymore. Because Baby Face is already doing that.
6. Apocalypse
“I am the rocks of the eternal shore. Crash against me and be broken!”
Created by: Louise Simonson; Walter Simonson
Voiced by: John Colicos; James Blendick; David Kaye
First Appearance: X-Factor #5 “Tapped Out” (comic, 1986); X-Men season 1 episode 8 “The Cure” (series, 1993)
Related Companies: Marvel Studios; Saban Entertainment, Inc.
The list of powers from this ferociously intelligent and intensely dangerous supervillain is exhausting, but includes some shit like: total control over his molecules; changing his body shape and size freely (even turning his arms into weapons or growing wings if he so feels like it); the ability to project and absorb energy; not relying on any sustenance to live; telepathy; telekinesis; and not to mention immortality and immunity to aging. All of this is why he was rated as one of the highest X-Men’s adversaries by Marvel themselves, and why I hate being human.
5. Hubert Cumberdale
Silent Character
Created by: David Firth
First Appearance: Salad Fingers episode 2 “Friends” (flash short, 2004)
Related Companies: Fat-Pie
Not too much is known about Salad Fingers’ finger puppet, except that he might be an immigrant; he enjoys getting his hair dried; he is sometimes known as Barbara Logan-Price; and he tastes like soot and poo. Moving along then.
4. Uncle Grandfather
“Get your meat face out of my apartment, you balding baldy.”
Created by: Mike Lazzo; Matt Harrigan; Matt Maiellaro
Voiced by: Matt Maiellaro
First Appearance: Perfect Hair Forever season 1 episode 1 “Pilot” (series, 2004)
Related Companies: Adult Swim
In a unique plot revolving around a young boy on a quest to remedy his premature baldness (coming into contact with a flying hot dog, a fat man in a catsuit, and a tornado suffering from dissociative identity disorder as he does so), it is Uncle Grandfather who really makes me happy. Filling his pot-belly with fast food, sexually harassing his assistant Brenda, and reading pornography whilst sporting a stereotypical Asian speech impediment, are just some of the reasons why this dirty old man changed my life and made me who I am today (I am an old overweight Japanese man).
3. Feathers McGraw
Silent Character
Created by: Nick Park; Bob Baker
First Appearance: Wallace and Gromit in The Wrong Trousers (film, 1993)
Related Companies: Aardman Animations; BBC (UK); Universal Pictures (USA)
You can’t really beat a claymation penguin diamond thief who disguises himself as a chicken by placing a rubber glove on his head, which is why this character has appeared or been mentioned in at least 4 other Wallace and Gromit features since his introduction, as well as in the unrelated Canadian series ReBoot. Never a trust a penguin that can afford rent, man, that's the first thing they teach you.
2. Nyan Cat
Silent Character
Created by: Christopher Torres
First Appearance: LOL-Comics (animated gif, 2011); Nyan Cat (YouTube video, 2011)
Related Companies: LOL-Comics
The 9th biggest viral video of 2011 (according to Business Insider) presented itself as a combination between Torres’ animated Pop Tart Cat (based on his dead pet Marty) and video site Nico Nico Douga user Daniwell, with his "Nyanyanyanyanyanyanya!" song (created using the aforementioned Hatsune Miku vocaliod; “nyā” being the Japanese version of “meow”) which was then remixed by another user, Momomomo. The brilliant connection of it all was made by YouTube's Sara saraj00n, and BOOM, history was made, going on to rack up roughly 97,000,000 views since its birth. I don't care what you say, it means the world to me.
1. No-Face
“Try this. It's delicious. Want some gold? I'm not giving it to anybody else.”
Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
Voiced by: Akio Nakamura (Japanese); Bob Bergen (English)
First Appearance: Spirited Away (film, 2001)
Related Companies: Studio Ghibli; Walt Disney Pictures
Officially known as Kaonashi (“faceless”), it is theorized that No-Face encompasses all the negative traits from those who he swallows, working as a symbol of excess and greed within the context of the film. But underneath it all, he is a lonely spirit, craving attention from Chihiro, desperate to impress her with his ability to create gold from thin air, or to eat gluttonous amounts of food without ever satisfying his hunger. Overwhelming, scary, and heartbreaking, all results in arguably the best character ever made, from the best movie ever made, by the best studio ever made, ever ever ever.
