The world of animation has come a long way in representing diversity. Black male cartoon characters have played a big role in this evolution. These famous characters have won our hearts and changed animation history from classic favorites to modern-day trailblazers.
So grab a snack, take a sit, and explore this incredible collection with us!
In This Article:
Black 90’s Cartoon Characters: The Early Pioneers
Fat Albert (Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids)
Fat Albert was one of the first black animated characters to have their show on television. He’s the heart and soul of the Junkyard Gang in Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, always trying to support his friends and making the right decisions.
The show stood out because it highlighted black children positively and highlighted critical issues. Fat Albert was a cartoon trailblazer who had a long-lasting impact on how black characters are portrayed in animation.
Valerie Brown (Josie and the Pussycats)
Valerie Brown is a character in Josie and the Pussy Cats, where she plays the tambourines. She is a curly-haired, intelligent African American teenager who typically wears purple clothing.
Valerie often uses her brilliant intellect to help the gang solve mysteries and defeat villains. Interestingly, Valerie has a doppelganger called Princess Milwila. She dresses in a variety of ways, such as a space suit in Josie and the Pussy Cats in Outer Space.
Cyborg (Teen Titans)
Cyborg (actual name Victor Stone), sometimes known as “Cy,” is a key character in Teen Titans. He is a top tech expert, a half-cybernetic half-man, and one of the five original Teen Titans members. The fact that Cyborg has friends who see him as a human rather than a freak has made him a very outgoing and fun-loving young guy.
He could appear heroic and solemn when necessary, yet he is also bright, witty, and positive. Cyborg is also an expert in mechanical engineering, robotics, physics, and computer science.
Winston Zeddemore (The Real Ghostbusters)
Winston Zeddemore is an important character in the Ghostbusters cartoon franchise. He first doubted the team’s paranormal studies, but he eventually joined. Despite his doubts, Winston quickly proved to be a valuable member.
He brings a sense of humor, practicality, and a unique side to the group. While Winston Zeddemore was not the first African-American cartoon character, he was a significant early example.
Lieutenant Uhura (Star Trek: The Animated Series)
Lieutenant Uhura is a groundbreaking character from the Star Trek cartoon series. She is a black woman who serves as a communications officer aboard the USS Enterprise.
Uhura’s attendance in the original and animated episodes addressed racial stereotypes while promoting diversity and equality. She is recognized for her wisdom, competence, and positive attitude.
The 2000s: Expanding Horizons
Huey Freeman (The Boondocks)
Huey Freeman is a main character in the cartoon show The Boondocks. He’s a young, intelligent man who genuinely cares about equality and justice. Huey lives with his little brother, Riley, and their grandpa in a neighborhood where most people are white.
He’s a rebel who wants to change the world and improve things for Black people. He is incredibly bright and frequently uses his words as a weapon, harshly criticizing society and its injustices.
Princess Tiana (The Princess and the Frog movie)
The Princess and the Frog is a 2009 American animated musical fantasy comedy film created by Walt Disney Animation Studios. Tina is a talented chef who grew up in New Orleans and desires to build her own restaurant.
Tiana, in an effort to fulfill her destiny, kisses a prince who a voodoo witch doctor had miraculously changed into a frog. In doing so, Tiana becomes a victim of the curse, starting an adventure in the bayou to find a cure.
Cleveland Brown (The Cleveland Show)
Cleveland Brown is the main character of the animated series The Cleveland Show. He’s a friendly and easygoing guy who lives in the small town of Stoolbend. Cleveland is a devoted husband and father. He’s married to Donna and has two stepchildren, Roberta and Rallo.
He also has a son, Cleveland Jr., from a previous marriage. Cleveland is a lovable character who can be awkward and clumsy at times. However, his good-natured personality and his genuine desire to be a good father and husband make him endearing to viewers.
Frozone (The Incredibles)
Lucius Best, popularly known as Frozone, is a prominent character in both The Incredibles and Incredibles 2. He is Mr. Incredible’s closest friend and greatest buddy. He can use his hands to produce ice and freeze surfaces. Once a “hot dog,” Frozone is a person with solid beliefs and a “cool” demeanor.
He is always ready to support his friends. He even offered to take in the Parr family after the government shut down the Super Hero Relocation Program. In addition, he is easygoing, charming, brave, and supportive of others.
Storm (X-Men: The Animated Series)
Ororo Munroe, also known as Storm, is a powerful superhero and one of the original X-Men members. She is African-American and has an amazing ability to control the weather. Storm is a trustworthy character who leads the X-Men very well.
She is constantly looking for the best solution to any problem. In casual conversations with her other X-Men, she frequently shows wit and has a good sense of humor. Interestingly, Storm is also a kind and brave girl who has always stood up for the rights of mutants.
Max Gibson (Batman Beyond)
Maxine “Max” Gibson was Terry McGinnis’ friend and then a vital partner during his time as the second Batman. Maxine Gibson is Terry McGinnis’ best friend. She is Terry’s High School’s most intelligent student. Max is a straight “A” student who might become valedictorian.
She played an important role in Batman’s war on crime: when it came to crime-fighting. She used her notable intelligence and skills in computer hacking and investigation to help Terry, making up for his lack of detective training.
Dr. Hibbert (The Simpsons)
Dr. Julius Michael Hibbert, M.D., also known as Dr. Hibbert, is Springfield’s most recognized and skilled doctor. Hibbert has an excellent sense of humor and has a knack for finding something to laugh about in almost every situation.
Hibbert is renowned for his booming, dramatic voice and unique chuckle. While most doctors are expected to be sensitive and serious when delivering bad news to their patients, Hibbert finds humor in almost everything.
Dottie McStuffins
Doc “Dottie” McStuffins is the star in Doc McStuffins. She is also featured on the Doc Files. Along with her mother and assistants, she cares for injured and sick toys.
Doc treats her toys with great love and repairs damaged toys. She takes great care of her toys, including those of her brother and friends. Even if a toy appears terrified, she stays thoughtful and nice.
Wave Load (Kim Possible)
Wade Load, a character in the Kim Possible series, is a young computer genius and a key member of Kim’s team. Wade, known for his outstanding intelligence and technological ability, created many gadgets and systems Kim uses on her missions.
One of his most famous inventions is the Kimmunicator, a sophisticated communication gadget that allows Kim to stay connected and receive important information while on her trips.
Gabriella (The Little Mermaid)
Gabriella appears on multiple occasions in the Disney series The Little Mermaid. As a deaf Latina mermaid, she uses American Sign Language to communicate with others. Her close friend Ollie, an octopus, acts as her translator.
Gabriella is a Latina mermaid with brown hair and green eyes. She has a pink tail and wears a pink bikini top. Gabriella can breathe on land and water indefinitely. There is an interesting fact that Gabriella is immune to very cold and scorching temperatures and situations.
Recent Favorites
Craig Williams (Craig of the Creek)
Craig Williams is the main character in Craig of the Creek. He is a curious and smart 10-year-old boy. Craig loves to explore the creek with his friends, Kelsey and J.P. He often leads them on fun adventures.
Craig is good at solving problems and is kind to others. The show is known for its diverse characters and positive stories. Craig is a favorite among many young viewers.
Moon Girl (Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur)
Moon Girl, also known as Lunella Lafayette, is the main character in Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur. She is a 9-year-old genius who lives in New York City. Lunella is incredibly smart, with an IQ higher than most superheroes.
She battles bad guys and finds solutions to challenges with her inventions. Moon Girl is famous for her creativity, bravery, and strong sense of justice. Her genius and the value of friendship are highlighted throughout the comics and show.
Kipo Oak (Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts)
Kipo Oak is the protagonist in Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts, an animated Netflix series. She is a 13-year-old girl who grew up in an underground burrow. After being forced to the surface, she discovers a world filled with mutant animals and strange creatures. Kipo is curious, optimistic, and brave.
She quickly makes friends and learns to navigate this new, wild world. Over time, she uncovers her own hidden powers and learns more about her past.
Miles Morales (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse)
Miles Morales, the relatable Afro-Latino teen from “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. Although raised in Brooklyn by his loving, hard-working parents, he still needs to deal with the challenges of high school, family, and newfound powers.
A radioactive spider bite grants Miles Superman powers. This occurs after the original Spider-Man from his version gives himself up.
Rae Rae (The Casagrandes)
Rae Rae, a minor character in the animated television series “The Casagrandes,” is an enthusiastic and quirky friend of Ronnie Anne Santiago. Rae Rae is known for her odd outlook, and she frequently finds herself in the midst of chaos.
With her unique style and bubbly character, she adds a new aspect to the show. She frequently pops up to offer words of encouragement or join in on Ronnie Anne’s adventures.
April O’Neil (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2023))
April O’Neil is a determined, street-smart teenager in the 2023 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film. A budding journalist with a thirst for truth, April discovers the existence of the Turtles and their hidden world beneath the city.
Her quick wit, investigative skills, and unwavering courage make her an invaluable ally to the mutant brothers. April’s compassion and willingness to fight for justice drive her to expose wrongdoing and protect those she cares about.
Bumblebee (Teen Titans Go!)
Bumblebee is a hero in the animated series “Teen Titans Go!”. She is a member of the Titans East team, a group of young superheroes. Despite her inability to speak, she can communicate via gestures and buzzing noises.
Nevertheless, she is a good friend to the others and a fantastic team member. She is extremely strong and agile, with the ability to shoot electrical blasts from her hands. Her joyful antics and sincere kindness fill everyone around her with joy.
Black Family Cartoon Series
- The Proud Family (2001-2005) – This Disney Channel animated series follows the adventures of Penny Proud and her family, and it features a diverse cast of characters.
- C Bear and Jamal (1996-1997) – An Austin & Jetta-produced series that focuses on two African American brothers and their imaginative adventures with their anthropomorphic bear friend, C Bear.
- The Boondocks (2005-2014) – Created by Aaron McGruder, this Cartoon Network series is known for its satirical take on African American culture, society, and politics.
- Craig of the Creek (2018-present) – This animated series by Cartoon Network features a diverse cast of characters, including several African American leads, and explores the adventures of kids who spend their summers at a neighborhood creek.
- The PJs (1999-2000) – Made by Eddie Murphy, this animated series features the life of a middle-class African American family, the Winstons, and their experiences.
- Little Bill (1999-2004) – Based on the books by Bill Cosby, this animated children’s series centers around the life of an African American family, focusing on the everyday experiences of Little Bill Cosby and his family and friends.1
- The Weekenders (2000-2004) – A Disney Channel series that includes an African American family as part of its main cast, depicting the weekend adventures of four friends, one of whom, Tisha, is African American.
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Conclusion
In the end, our journey through the world of famous black animated characters has been amazing and inspiring. These lovely characters not only made us smile, but they also taught us valuable lessons about diversity and the power of narratives. Let’s continue to support the black actors and creators who bring these characters to life.
