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50 Best Disney Characters One Can't Help But Associate With Childhood
Movies & tvAPR 18, 2023

50 Best Disney Characters One Can't Help But Associate With Childhood

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Many can't help but associate childhood and the sense of nostalgia with classic Disney movies. And there's hardly any doubt that future generations will do the same and tie their early memories with their favorite Disney characters.
Although great leadership, effective marketing, and a strong global presence are some of the key reasons for a company's enduring success, there's a lot more to why The Walt Disney Company ranks among the most valuable brands worldwide and why some of the most iconic Disney characters remain as relevant and appealing now as they were in the 1940s.
Walt Disney, the man who started it all, knew that characters were crucial to communicating with his audience. He believed a story cannot sound believable and ring true if the characters are missing personality. Perhaps paying such close attention to modeling characters is what separated Disney from other animated studios, which never acquired quite the heights that Disney did.
Some of the most famous Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Pinocchio, Dumbo, and many other iconic Disney characters all share a timeless quality, and that little something that secured their lasting success. Perhaps it's Walt Disney's zeal and gift for storytelling, Joe Grant's mastery of conveying personality, and the groundwork they left behind, but there's something about the best Disney characters, whether heroic figures or conventional "bad guys," that make them incredibly likable and appealing.
Below, we've compiled some of the most noteworthy, arguably best Disney characters of all time, including lead characters, the "bad guys," sidekicks, and other supporting characters that deserve a spot on the list. We invite you to upvote every Disney character you are fond of to see which iconic Disney characters Pandas love the most. Also, who is your favorite Disney character or a character who introduced you to animated movies? Let us know in the comments!

#1 Eeyore From "Winnie The Pooh"

Eeyore From "Winnie The Pooh"
Eeyore may be the most depressing resident of the Hundred Acre Wood, yet he is nonetheless endearing. All successful friendship groups require that person — or donkey, in this case — for the sake of balance. His pessimistic attitude toward life stands in sharp contrast to the bubbly Tigger and the upbeat Pooh. Still, we adore Eeyore because of his distinctive drawling voice, which he uses to deliver quick quips, and his willingness to provide a hand to his friends.
22points

#2 Baymax From "Big Hero 6"

Baymax From "Big Hero 6"
Helping others is Baymax's sole purpose in life, and due to his peaceful demeanor and cuddly look, it is difficult not to fall in love with him. Baymax, programmed as a personal healthcare companion, comforts the main character Hiro as he mourns the loss of his older brother Tadashi. Although initially obedient to Hiro, Baymax develops his own personality and even makes a sacrifice to save his little comrade. Everyone needs a friend like Baymax; that much is certain.
20points

#3 Moana

Moana
Moana is one of the few Disney princesses who doesn't need a guy to save her; her adventurous spirit and tenacity show that she is more than capable of fending for herself. As the Motanui Chief's daughter, Moana is divided between a sense of obligation to the island, which looks to her for leadership, and the alluring, irresistible pull of the sea. She might be one of the most lovable Disney princesses because of her ability to prevail in challenging situations.
20points

#4 Stitch From "Lilo & Stitch"

Stitch From "Lilo & Stitch"
Although a particular mouse and the princesses have long predominated Disney sales, once a little blue alien named Stitch made an appearance, he quickly rose to become among the most sought-after Disney figures and one of the most well-known Disney characters. His cheeky, mischievous personality and endearing connection with Lilo easily solidified him as a favorite.
20points

#5 Tigger From "Winnie The Pooh"

Tigger From "Winnie The Pooh"
Tigger regularly bugs some of the other inhabitants of the Hundred Acre Wood because of his boundless enthusiasm. Nevertheless, he also proves to be a devoted buddy with a heart as big as his bounces. We can all aim to have Tigger's level of confidence since he meets every difficulty in life as if he has already conquered it.
19points

#6 Olaf From "Frozen"

Olaf From "Frozen"
One of the movie's many highlights is the gentle snowman who loves summer and warm embraces, demonstrating once more how superior Disney is at creating endearing sidekicks. Throughout the film, Olaf stands in for all that is good and pure, and viewers can't help but be inspired by his unwavering optimism. The phrase "some people are worth melting for" perfectly captures his unshakeable loyalty and pure-heartedness.
18points

#7 Thumper From "Bambi"

Thumper From "Bambi"
This tiny rabbit has a big personality, and his cheeky, mischievous antics make him instantly likable. Not only is Thumper super adorable, but he's also a do-gooder and helps Bambi adapt to life in the wild. Although he occasionally makes mistakes in judgment (who doesn't?), he is remarkably astute. Also, he always bears in mind his father's wise advice: "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all."
17points

#8 Simba From "The Lion King"

Simba From "The Lion King"
Like any young child, Simba tends to be a little too overconfident and thinks his father will always be there to shield him from any danger he gets into. Of course, we all know how this one ends: after Mufasa is cruelly slain, Simba, tormented with remorse over his father's passing, flees into a self-imposed exile. As Simba learns from his mistakes and ascends to the throne, we go with him and see all of life's changes through his eyes.
17points

#9 Rapunzel From "Tangled"

Rapunzel From "Tangled"
In contrast to the original material, the Rapunzel we meet in the animated film doesn't need the dashing prince to save her; she is more than capable of doing it as long as she has her trustworthy frying pan at her side. We witness her go through a whole range of emotions as she ultimately exits the constraints of her tower, including fear, remorse, and enormous joy at being liberated. Rapunzel's most prominent quality is that she never attempts to be flawless or put up a facade, which only increases her likeability.
17points

#10 Pluto

Pluto
Pluto, Mickey Mouse's charming dog pal, stands out on this list since he is one of the few non-speaking characters. But despite this, he continues to participate actively in The Sensational Six's escapades and has done so since 1930. Although Pluto is a very good boy, that doesn't stop him from getting into a lot of mischief. Big kudos to Disney for making a character that is still popular 90 years after its creation.
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15points

#11 Piglet From "Winnie The Pooh"

Piglet From "Winnie The Pooh"
Piglet may lack courage, but he makes up for it with his unwavering loyalty. He will always be there for his buddies. The fact that each character in Winnie The Pooh has flaws while still contributing to the story and having shining moments is one of their most endearing qualities. As Piglet gives up his beloved house to Owl in The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, he shows that despite his cowardice, he has a big heart, and no one is too tiny to make a difference.
15points

#12 Donald Duck

Donald Duck
If Mickey Mouse's upbeat demeanor is too innocent for you, you might like Donald Duck, who is more brutal and edgier. Donald frequently speaks incomprehensibly and is prone to violent outbursts, which not only makes for infinite amusement but also serves as the ideal counterpoint to the personalities of the other members of The Sensational Six.
15points

#13 Alice From "Alice In Wonderland"

Alice From "Alice In Wonderland"
Alice's world is flipped upside down when she follows a white rabbit into a hole. Soon, she finds herself in a strange land with singing flowers, an endless tea party, and a cruel queen out to lop off her head. Along with having an iconic appearance, Alice is remembered for her chastity and "curiouser and curiouser" attitude, which wonderfully captures childlike naivety and the joy of discovering new things.
14points

#14 Maui From "Moana"

Maui From "Moana"
Initially portrayed as the movie's antagonist, Maui becomes an invaluable resource for Moana, teaching her all she needs to know about wayfinding. Even though he may be noisy and overconfident, the shape-shifting deity unveils his human side when the truth about his terrible childhood is revealed. We begin to see Maui in a more favorable light and even fall in love with him once we glimpse through his façade.
14points

#15 Mushu From "Mulan"

Mushu From "Mulan"
Disney has given us many memorable sidekicks throughout the years. Still, Mushu gained immense popularity among fans because of Eddie Murphy's unrivaled singing prowess. Mushu is unique because, although he is helping Mulan, he is also on a personal quest to establish his worthiness in the eyes of the forefathers. Not only is it rare to witness a sidekick with a complete arc, but it's also super comforting.
14points

#16 Mulan

Mulan
Mulan is very unlike any of the Disney princesses. She is expected to uphold her family's honor by finding a suitable groom and having children. Instead, she joins the army in place of her aged father and forges an entirely new identity as she poses as a man. By going off to war, Mulan defies all expectations and demonstrates her emotional and physical strength.
13points

#17 Ralph From "Wreck-It Ralph"

Ralph From "Wreck-It Ralph"
Shunned by the other characters in his game, Ralph quickly wins our sympathies as he sets out on a dangerous quest to earn a medal and become a hero. First, Ralph's motives are a touch self-centered, and due to his carelessness, he unintentionally destroys several games. However, thanks to his friendship with Vanellope, Ralph discovers that being a hero requires more than simply sporting a medal. And by the time the movie ends, he has earned our respect.
12points

#18 Tinker Bell From "Peter Pan"

Tinker Bell From "Peter Pan"
This sassy fairy, who serves as Peter Pan's sidekick, conveys a lot simply by remaining silent. Tinker Bell combines a winsome look with a bit of attitude. In the animated film, she is portrayed as impulsive, envious, and prone to temper outbursts. However, these characteristics don't make her dislikeable, quite the opposite.
11points

#19 Chernabog From "Fantasia"

Chernabog From "Fantasia"
As is often the case (or should be), Chernabog, the enormous winged demon, speaks through his actions rather than words. Chernabog makes a notable appearance in the last part, "Night on Bald Mountain/Ave Maria," where he calls demons and the damned for a night of dread. Definitely one of the scariest Disney characters!
10points

#20 Mirabel From "Encanto"

Mirabel From "Encanto"
Mirabel is a regular girl living in an exceptional world. With no special power, she struggles to fit in, while her family members can lift enormous weights or communicate with animals. Nonetheless, she plays a crucial role in her family's journey. And despite her extraordinary circumstances, Mirabel's path is incredibly realistic and relatable since every single one of us is facing similar struggles that Mirabel does.
10points
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