Some movies and TV shows produce characters that are so universally beloved, they become staples of popular culture. Be it because of their writing, stellar performances, or being attached to a genre-defining film, these characters become so iconic that you know who they are just by a glance, even if you haven’t seen the media they come from. Some of the biggest examples include the likes of Darth Vader, Tony Soprano, and comic book heroes like Spider-Man and Superman.

Animated movies have their own long list of iconic characters as well, some of whom are relatively new. For this list, we won’t be exploring characters who appeared in theater shorts, such as Mickey Mouse or Bugs Bunny.

10

Po

From the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ Franchise (2008–2024)

When you hear the name <em>Kung Fu Panda</em>, it’s understandable to assume that the film would be something that only caters to young kids. Yet, fittingly, the movie presents a story about not judging books by their covers through its protagonist, Po. Voiced by Jack Black, this kung fu-obsessed bear goes on an emotional journey of self-worth and personal growth, which has resonated with audiences of all ages.

Po is a phenomenal protagonist because of how universal his story is, and for how happy he makes you thanks to his boundless enthusiasm. While he might enjoy the occasional bit of showboating in his fight sequences, Po is a character who is eager to learn and absorb as much knowledge and wisdom as possible, which gives him a good level of humility that ensures he never becomes unlikable. While he might be a chosen one, there’s an everyman appeal to Po, because what makes him the chosen one isn’t any supernatural gift, but the belief that he is worthy of the mantle of Dragon Warrior.

9

Dory

From the ‘Finding Nemo’ Franchise (2003–2016)

Pixar’s Finding Nemo is one of their most iconic movies thanks to its realistic portrayal of the underwater world, its story that appealed to parents and children alike, and its unforgettable characters. By far the most iconic is Dory, a blue tang brought to life by Ellen DeGeneres. In contrast to the overly cautious Marlin, Dory is an optimistic fish willing to try almost anything, held back only by her short-term memory loss.

Dory ranks high on Pixar’s list of iconic characters thanks to how infectiously positive she is, and DeGeneres’ outstanding performance. She is like an open book, presenting her thoughts and feelings in direct, hilarious, and heartfelt ways, and always finds the best in every situation. Most of the film’s most iconic moments and lines also come from her, including her catchy “Just Keep Swimming” song and her hilarious conversation with a blue whale.

8

Totoro

From ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)

Studio Ghibli is perhaps the most well-known animation studio from Japan, and has produced some of the country’s most commercially and critically successful films on the global market. While their first film, <em>Castle in the Sky</em>, is a masterpiece, the one that became a global icon was My Neighbor Totoro. The titular Totoro has since become the mascot of Studio Ghibli and has been referenced in dozens of works.

It’s hard not to smile when you look upon Totoro’s round, friendly design. He perfectly captures the beauty of childhood wonder and imagination, as well as director Hayao Miyazaki‘s environmentalist themes, thanks to his representation of nature’s beauty. While in his movies, he invokes strong feelings of childhood nostalgia, seeing his face before each new Studio Ghibli film reminds us of their storytelling potential and gets us excited to see what the next film will bring.

7

Shrek

From the ‘Shrek’ Franchise (2001–2010)