50 Best Black Cartoon Characters: Iconic Black History Month Toons

Superhero Representation

The world of superheroes has seen a rise in prominent black characters, offering inspiration and empowerment. The best black superheroes make an important impact on both cartoon series and the broader popular culture.

Top black cartoon characters

1. Huey Freeman 

Huey Freeman from "The Boondocks" is definitely one of the best black cartoon characters to ever be created. He is known for his intellectual prowess and satirical commentary on African-American culture and American animated society.  Both are voiced by the talented regina king. This cartoon character presents a unique perspective.

2. Proud family 

The "Proud Family" is an iconic black family on animated television, showcasing the joys and challenges of African-American family life. With its relatable characters and engaging storylines, this animated series has left an indelible mark on the landscape of black animated television.

3. Penny Proud 

Penny Proud from "The Proud Family" is a beloved black cartoon character known for her relatable teenage struggles and aspirations. As a strong and independent black girl, she serves as a positive role model for young viewers of this animated series.

4. Trudy Proud 

Trudy Proud, the matriarch of "The Proud Family," embodies warmth, strength, and wisdom. As a supportive mother and wife, she plays a pivotal role in guiding her family through life's ups and downs in this cartoon, resonating with African-American families.

5. Oscar Proud 

Oscar Proud, the goofy and well-intentioned father from "The Proud Family," provides comedic relief while also imparting valuable life lessons. Although sometimes bumbling, his love for his family shines through, making him an endearing cartoon character.

6. Dijonay Jones 

Dijonay Jones, Penny's best friend in "The Proud Family," is a sassy and confident black cartoon character who always has her friend's back. Her loyalty and humor make her a memorable part of the animated series.

7. Sugar Mama 

Sugar Mama, the feisty grandmother from "The Proud Family," is known for her no-nonsense attitude and hilarious antics. As a central figure in the family dynamic, she adds a unique and entertaining element to the animated series.

8. Cleveland Brown 

Cleveland Brown from "Family Guy" and "The Cleveland Brown Show" is a laid-back and humorous black cartoon character. While the shows have faced controversy, Cleveland remains a recognizable figure in animated television. The show portrays African-American people.

9. Donna Tubbs 

Donna Tubbs, Cleveland Brown's wife, is a level-headed and supportive black cartoon character. She brings a sense of normalcy to the often chaotic world of "The Cleveland Brown Show," making her a grounded presence.

10. Roberta Tubbs 

Roberta Tubbs, Cleveland's stepdaughter, is a sassy and independent black cartoon character who often challenges the status quo. Her character provides a youthful perspective and adds to the show's dynamic.

11. Gerald Johanssen 

Gerald Johanssen from "Hey Arnold!" is known for his cool demeanor and captivating storytelling abilities. As Arnold's best friend, he plays a significant role in the animated series, representing positive black characters in children's media,

12. Franklin 

Franklin, from the Peanuts gang, is one of the first African-American characters in a widely syndicated comic strip. Franklin's inclusion marked a significant step towards greater diverse characters representation, though some have criticized his depiction as somewhat bland.

13. Static Shock 

Static Shock, also known as Virgil Hawkins, is a superhero that is a great addition to the world of black cartoon characters. As a teenager with electromagnetic powers, he fights crime in his city, Dakota, while also dealing with everyday adolescent issues.

14. Cyborg 

Cyborg, a prominent member of the Teen Titans, is a powerful black superhero known for his technological prowess and unwavering loyalty. As a central figure in the animated series, he embodies resilience and teamwork, inspiring viewers of all backgrounds.

15. Frozone 

Frozone, also known as Lucius Best, from "The Incredibles," is a cool and collected black superhero with the power to control ice. His wit and courage make him an indispensable member of the superhero team, as portrayed in the Disney movies.

15. Valerie Gray 

Valerie Gray from "Danny Phantom" is an intelligent and determined black female character. She evolves from being a ghost hunter to an ally, showcasing her complexity and growth throughout the animated series.

16. Hermes Conrad 

Hermes Conrad from "Futurama" is a Jamaican bureaucrat known for his love of bureaucracy and limbo. As a dedicated employee of Planet Express, he brings a unique cultural perspective and humor to the animated television series.

17. Vince LaSalle 

Vince LaSalle from "Recess" is the athletic and competitive leader of the gang. Known for his skills in sports and his unwavering loyalty to his friends, he represents a positive portrayal of a black boy's athleticism.

18. Keesha Franklin 

Keesha Franklin, also from "The Magic School Bus," is the sharp-witted and inquisitive student who often provides insightful observations during the class's adventures. She is an intelligent black cartoon character that brings the show to life.

19. Numbuh 5 

Numbuh 5, also known as Abigail Lincoln, from "Codename: Kids Next Door" is a cool and resourceful operative. Known for her intelligence and strategic thinking, she plays a vital role in the team's missions, representing strong black female leadership. She is one of the best black cartoon characters.

20. Tiana 

Tiana from "Princess and the Frog" is a groundbreaking black cartoon character who broke barriers as Disney's first black princess. Her determination and entrepreneurial spirit make her an inspiring role model for aspiring chefs and dreamers everywhere.

21. Dr. Facilier 

Dr. Facilier, also known as the Shadow Man, from "Princess and the Frog," is a charismatic yet villainous character that uses dark magic to achieve his goals. He is one of the most memorable and iconic black cartoon characters of our time.

22. Storm 

Storm, also known as Ororo Munroe, from the X-Men is a powerful mutant that can control the weather. As one of the most iconic and influential black female superheroes, she embodies strength, leadership, and compassion.

23. Garnet 

Garnet from "Steven Universe" is a fusion of two gems, Ruby and Sapphire, representing love, strength, and unity. As a leader of the Crystal Gems, she embodies wisdom and protection, making her an inspiring and beloved character.

24. Kipo Oak 

Kipo Oak from "Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts" is an optimistic and adventurous young girl navigating a post-apocalyptic world. Her kindness and determination inspire others to embrace diversity and work together for a better future.

25. Craig Williams 

Craig Williams from "Craig of the Creek" is an imaginative and resourceful young boy exploring the wonders of the creek with his friends. His adventures celebrate creativity, friendship, and the joys of childhood exploration.

26. Bumblebee 

Bumblebee is a black female superhero known for her agility and stinging powers. Often affiliated with the Teen Titans, she brings a strong, independent presence to the superhero community, exemplifying diverse characters in action.

27. Miles Morales 

Peter parker, also known as Spider-Man, is a groundbreaking black superhero inspiring a new generation. His relatability and courage resonate with audiences, making him a beloved figure in the Marvel Universe.

28. Rallo Tubbs 

Rallo Tubbs from "The Cleveland Brown Show" is a precocious and mischievous young boy known for his adult-like behavior and witty remarks. Though controversial, he adds a unique comedic element to the animated series. He is one of the funniest black cartoon characters.

29. Trixie Carter 

Trixie Carter from "American Dragon: Jake Long" is a loyal and supportive friend to Jake, navigating the challenges of high school and supernatural adventures. As a relatable character, she adds depth and humor to the animated series.

30. Jodie Landon 

Jodie Landon from "Daria" is an intelligent and ambitious black female character who often faces pressure to succeed. Her portrayal challenges stereotypes and offers a nuanced perspective on the experiences of African-American youth.

31. Fillmore 

Fillmore from "Fillmore!" is a dedicated and enthusiastic safety patrol officer solving mysteries at X Middle School. His commitment to justice and quirky personality make him a memorable cartoon character that represents black characters in a positive light.

32. Monique 

Monique is one of Kim Possible's best friends. As a smart and stylish character, Monique often assists Kim in her missions, showcasing her resourcefulness and loyalty. Her presence adds diversity and depth to the animated series.

33. Libby Folfax 

Libby Folfax from "Jimmy Neutron" is Cindy Vortex's best friend and confidante. Known for her intelligence and dry wit, she often provides a voice of reason amidst the chaotic adventures, making her a great addition to this cartoon.

34. Kwame 

Kwame from "Captain Planet and the Planeteers" is the Planeteer from Africa with the power of Earth. His character promotes environmental awareness and global unity, embodying the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.

35. Winston Zeddemore 

Winston Zeddemore from "The Real Ghostbusters" is the pragmatic and down-to-earth member of the Ghostbusters team. As a voice of reason, he adds a relatable perspective to the supernatural adventures, showcasing the importance of teamwork and friendship.

36. Max Gibson 

Max Gibson from "Batman Beyond" is a tech-savvy and resourceful classmate of Terry McGinnis. She plays a crucial role in assisting Batman with his missions, showcasing her intelligence and loyalty as a valuable ally.

37. Dee Dee Mo Morrison 

Dee Dee Mo Morrison from "BeBe's Kids" is a memorable character known for her mischievous antics and energetic personality. As one of BeBe's children, she adds humor and chaos to the animated film, capturing the essence of childhood.

38. Roxie Washington 

Roxie Washington from "Static Shock" is Virgil Hawkins' close friend and confidante, providing emotional support and a grounded perspective. Her character showcases the importance of friendship and community, enriching the narrative of the animated series.

39. joe gardner

Joe Gardner from "Soul" is a middle school band teacher with a passion for jazz music. His journey of self-discovery and pursuit of his dreams resonates with audiences, making him an inspiring and relatable character in the Disney movies.

40. Bernard 

Bernard, from "The Rescuers Down Under," is one of the main characters. As a courageous and determined mouse, he embarks on daring rescue missions, showcasing his bravery and loyalty to his friends.

41. Eddie Thomas 

Eddie Thomas from "Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids" is a memorable character. Known for his good-natured personality and catchy phrase "Hey Hey Hey!", he adds humor and charm to the animated series.

42. Alex Wilder

Alex Wilder from "Marvel's Runaways" is an intelligent and strategic leader with a complex past. As he grapples with his family's secrets, he navigates the challenges of leadership and betrayal, making him a compelling and dynamic character.

43. Rukia Jones

There is no Rukia Jones character. Perhaps you are thinking of a different character.

44. black panther 

Black Panther, also known as T'Challa, is the king and protector of Wakanda, a technologically advanced African nation. With his intelligence, strength, and unwavering sense of justice, he inspires audiences worldwide as a symbol of hope and empowerment.

45. teenage girl 

46. Ororo munroe 

Ororo Munroe is Storm.Ororo Munroe, known as Storm, is a strong African-American superhero from the X-Men with the power to control weather. A wise and brave leader, she balances strength with compassion and stands firmly for mutant rights.

47. Doc mcstuffins 

Doc McStuffins is a caring and imaginative young girl who runs a clinic for stuffed animals and toys. Through her nurturing nature and medical expertise, she teaches children about health and empathy, promoting positive values and role models.

48. Virgil hawkins

Virgil Hawkins is Static Shock, a superhero.

40. Huey and riley freeman 

Huey and Riley Freeman from "The Boondocks" offer contrasting perspectives on race, politics, and culture, sparking thought-provoking conversations and satire. Their dynamic interactions and sharp wit make them one of the best black cartoon characters on television.

50. black dynamite

Black Dynamite is the main character in the cartoon. He is a parody of 1970s Blaxploitation films, fighting crime and injustice with his martial arts skills and charismatic personality. His show is one of the best black options. 

51. Rae 

Conclusion: The Legacy of Black Cartoon Characters

Impact on Future Generations

The lasting impact of these black cartoon characters on future generations cannot be overstated. From Tiana in "Princess and the Frog" to Miles Morales as Spider-Man, these cartoon representations offer young African-American viewers positive role models and a sense of belonging. Seeing diverse characters thrive in animated television series helps to normalize diversity and foster inclusivity in society, shaping a more equitable world for all.

Continued Evolution of Character Representation

The evolution of black cartoon characters' representation is an ongoing process. While significant strides have been made, there is still work to be done in ensuring that African-American characters are portrayed with depth, complexity, and authenticity. Moving forward, it is essential to continue creating animated series that reflect the diversity of the African-American experience, showcasing a wide range of stories and perspectives.

Encouraging Diversity in Animation

Encouraging diversity in animation is crucial for creating a more inclusive and representative media landscape. By supporting black animated creators and storytellers, we can ensure that black cartoon characters are developed with sensitivity and authenticity. Furthermore, promoting diverse characters in cartoons opens up new opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding, enriching the lives of viewers of all backgrounds.

FAQS

Who are black anime characters?

While this article focuses on American animated productions, it's important to acknowledge the presence of black characters in anime as well. Characters like Canary from "Hunter x Hunter" and Yoruichi Shihouin from "Bleach" offer representation within the anime genre, showcasing the global impact and reach of African-American influence on animated television. These diverse characters continue to break barriers.

What are black disney characters?

Disney Movies have featured a number of memorable black characters. Tiana from "Princess and the Frog" holds the distinction of being the first black Disney princess. Frozone (Lucius Best) from "The Incredibles" is an iconic black superhero. Joe Gardner from "Soul" is a more recent example. These African-American characters have become cornerstones of animated television.

What are your favorite cartoons with black characters?

Selecting a favorite cartoon series with black characters is a tough decision, as so many animated series have left a lasting impression. "The Boondocks" stands out for its sharp social commentary, while "Craig of the Creek" celebrates the joys of childhood. "Proud Family" shows African-American values. Other options include Static Shock for superhero lovers and Princess and the Frog for fairy-tale fans.