Cartoons have unquestionably assisted us in developing as children by associating us with revered cartoon characters that we cannot forget as adults.
Cartoons can affect various individuals in distinct ways. For certain individuals, they contributed to the development of their imagination and creativity during childhood, and for others, they even impacted how they viewed the world surrounding them.
Cartoons and animated characters are universal and lesser known depending on the age of the audience and joyfulness. Their impressions have been great, even if they were made using 2D animation services.
However, they have given us a lot of laughter and entertainment. Cartoons have also taught us a lot about respect, friendship, courage, endurance, and love.
Without a doubt, modern cartoon programs and their iconic characters have also shaped the minds of children today.
Despite advances in digital animation, many cartoon characters from our childhood continue to appeal to the new generation.
Fun fact: 1908 – Fantasmagorie, considered by animation historians as the world’s first cartoon, is released.
This article seeks to give an overview of what animation is and how animated works are able to transform imaginations and creativity by working through modern-day cartoon characters such as the famous Superman Batman.
Mickey Mouse
At the top of the list of famous cartoon characters is Mickey Mouse.
Mickey is One of the most emblematic characters of the 20th century, as he embodies everything that Walt Disney wanted to achieve through his works while retaining his character as a child.
Joy, charisma, and his talent for enjoyment made him one of the most distinguished figures in the realm of animation, earning a spot in the hearts of millions globally. As one of the funniest cartoon characters names in history, Mickey Mouse continues to bring smiles across generations.
Would you like a similar character like Mickey Mouse, but in a 3D animated version? Prolific Studio is the answer for that!
When did they create Mickey Mouse?
Mickey Mouse was created in the year 1928 by Walt and Iwerks. This character featured for the first time in Steamboat Willie.
Who provided the voice for Mickey Mouse?
At first, Mickey Mouse was voiced by Walt Disney himself. Nonetheless, following his death, other voice actors such as Jimmy MacDonald, Wayne Allwine, Bret Iwan, and Chris Diamantopoulos have assumed the role.
Tom and Jerry
Tom and Jerry is a timeless American show that has been amusing viewers for generations. It is undoubtedly one of the most iconic cartoon characters duos in history. In case you were unaware, Tom and Jerry is a show featuring a cat called Tom and a mouse named Jerry. As two of the funniest cartoon characters, they have delighted audiences with their hilarious antics and endless rivalry.
From 1940 to 1958, around 114 Tom and Jerry cartoons were made for MGM (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer), making them popular alongside their contemporaries.
When was Tom and Jerry originally made?
It was William Hanna and Joseph Barbera who first designed and produced the television animation of Tom and Jerry in 1940, making them some of the most televised cartoon characters in history.
Who provided the voice for Tom and Jerry?
William Hanna and Mel Blanc were the original voice actors for Tom and Jerry, giving life to these legendary male cartoon characters. Throughout the years, various artists such as June Foray, John Winfield Stephenson, Don Brown, and others assumed control, ensuring these famous characters continued to entertain generations.
Read also: Traditional vs. Digital 2D Animation: What’s the Difference?
Bugs Bunny
Bugs Bunny is a famous character from Warner Brothers’ Looney Tunes, which are animated short films. Bugs Bunny is Considered among the best characters and has made people laugh for over 80 years with his sense of humor and sarcasm, which certainly places him alongside the most memorable cartoon characters.
No doubt, Bugs Bunny has to be one of the most entertaining cartoon characters that has ever appeared on screen. His funny jokes, coupled with brilliant tactics, stood the test of time ensuring that he remains one of the all-time great animated characters.
Animated motion graphics is one of the most important aspects when it comes to animation. Prolific Studio is a premium animation studio that offers flawless services in that niche.
When did Bugs Bunny come into existence?
Bugs Bunny is a cartoon character that was developed in 1940 by Tex Avery, Ben Hardaway, Chuck Jones, and other staff members of Warner Bros. Cartoons, further establishing him in the books as one of the greatest animated movie characters.
Who provided the voice for Bugs Bunny?
Numerous voice actors provided the voice for Bugs Bunny. Initially, it was performed by the iconic voice actor Mel Blanc. Nonetheless, after his passing, it was assumed by several other voice actors such as Jeff Bergman, Greg Burson, Billy West, and more.
SpongeBob SquarePants
Out of the many animated characters that have existed in history, there existed one character that etched itself as a fan favorite. This character is SpongeBob SquarePants. SpongeBob SquarePants is known to be unlike the rest, owing to his quirky personality and, most importantly, the character’s voice, which sits right next the SpongeBob’s loved character. He has resided in a city dubbed Bikini Bottom in a Pineapple under the ocean. The cutouts of the show have enabled the adults to love the character as much as the children do.
When did SpongeBob come into existence?
SpongeBob was developed in 1999 by Stephen Hillenburg.
Who provided the voice for SpongeBob?
Tom Kenny provided the voice for SpongeBob SquarePants.
Homer Jay Simpson
Homer Jay Simpson is a figure from the U.S. animated TV show “The Simpsons.” He is an endearing character and frequently a source of comedy in the program. His unique voice and signature phrases made Homer a beloved cartoon character. His passion for beer and donuts makes him quite relatable.
When did the Simpsons first come about?
The Simpsons were developed in 1989 by cartoonist Matt Groening.
Who provides the voice for Homer J Simpson?
Dan Castellaneta is the voice actor behind Homer Jay Simpson.
Donald Duck
Donald Duck is an iconic Disney figure. He possesses a bill, legs, and feet that are yellow-orange. He’s famous for his unique voice, nautical attire, and passion for adventure. Despite his shortcomings, Donald has delighted audiences for more than 80 years and continues to be one of the most beloved and charming characters ever.
When did they create Donald Duck?
Donald Duck was created back in 1934 by the animation duo of Walt Disney and Dick Lundy.
Who provided the voice for Donald Duck?
Donald Duck had a distinct voice which was given life by Clarence Nash, in the unfortunate demise of the former, Tony Anselmo continued the legacy of Donald Duck.
You may also like: How 2D Animation Influences Modern Media
Scooby-Doo and Shaggy Rogers
If there’s a perfect pairing of characters, it must be Scooby Doo and Shaggy Rogers. They are close friends and teammates who investigate mysteries in the well-known series Scooby Doo. Scooby Doo is a Great Dane, while Shaggy is a voracious human. Both enjoy food and fighting eerie ghosts/monsters.
Do you need a killer animated trailer for your next movie or game? Leverage Prolific Studio’s top-notch trailer animation service today!
When was Scooby Doo first made?
The classic series “Scooby-Doo, where are you!” was developed in 1969 by Joe Ruby and Ken Spears.
Who provided the voice for Scooby-Doo and Shaggy Rogers?
The characters Scooby-Doo and Shaggy Rogers had their voice started off by Don Messick and Casey Kasem, respectively, with time and pace, as Don and Casey, along with others, unfortunately, passed away, the voices were taken over by a host of characters, including Frank Welker, Matthew Lillard among others.
Daffy Duck
Daffy Duck is another iconic character from American cartoons. He’s a dark duck with yellow bills and webbed feet. He is widely recognized for having a varied personality. Although Daffy Duck has frequently represented the role of an anti-hero, he has also demonstrated heroic traits in several episodes of his series.
When did Daffy Duck first appear?
Daffy Duck was designed in 1937 by Tex Avery and Bob Clampett at Warner Bros Cartoons.
Who provided the voice for Daffy Duck?
Mel Blanc was the first voice for Daffy Duck. With time and age, the mantle of Duffy Duck’s voice was handed over to Jeff Bergman, Greg Burson, Joe Alaskey, and many more.
Pikachu
Pikachu is an iconic figure from the timeless video game franchise Pokemon. He is an adorable and lovable yellow electric mouse recognized for his legendary sound, “Pika Pika.” Undoubtedly, Pikachu has won the affection of millions globally.
When did Pikachu get created?
In the Pokemon franchise, the character Pikachu was developed by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori as the franchise reached testing waters in 1996.
Who provides the voice for Pikachu?
Ikue Otani in Japan voiced Pikachu, while in English, the voice was performed by actress Sarah Natochenny.
Road Runner
Wile E. Coyoteah is perhaps the second most prominent figure, whereas Road Runner is the most prominent character. Aside from the incredible speed, his only line is always the same, “Beep Beep.” Moreover, Road Runner has several other feats, such as managing to always outwit Coyote and avoiding any attempts at being captured. For more than six decades they have been entertaining people with their exhilarating and humorous chases.
When did Road Runner first appear?
The character of the Road Runner was first seen in 1948 as part of the animated series Fast and Furry-ous. It was a show by Chuck Jones and Michael Maltese.
Who provided the voice for the Road Runner?
He is portrayed by Paul Julian and is reported to have been succeeded by Mel Blanc, Joe Alaskey, and Eric Bauza after Paul Julian passed away.
Fred Flintstone
Fred Flintstone is also an animated series character. He comes from the cartoon series by the name The Flinstones, which is one of the oldest cartoon series in the history of television. The first bulb in the Flinstone family, he is also famous for his unique form of growling, a great affection for bowling, and a unique chuckle.
What year did Fred Flintstone originate?
Fred Flintstones was conceived in the year 1960 by Mr. William Hanna and Mr. Joseph Barbera and built at the Hanna-Barbera Productions.
Who provided the voice for Fred Flintstone?
Alan Reed voicing Fred Flintstone is a thing I have archive pieces on Fred Flintstone. But after he passed away other voice actors like Henry Corden, Frank Welker, and many others voiced this character.
Betty Boop
So let me tell you about an amazing animated figure known as Betty Boop. Betty Boop is an animated character who features in “Talkartoon” and also the Betty Boop movie series. She is known for her mischievous character and her unusual voice. At first, Betty Boop was created as a human figure but then she was later modified to be a French Poodle.
What year was Betty Boop made?
An American animator and film producer, Max Fleischer, is credited with the evolution and birth of Betty Boop in 1930.
Who provided the voice for Betty Boop?
Margie Hines, an actress and singer, was the first to voice Betty Boop. Following her passing, her voice was provided by Little Ann Little, Harriet Lee, Melissa Fahn, and Sandy Fox.
Goofy
Goofy is a timeless Disney character who is endearing and possesses a unique personality. He is also famous for his catchphrase “Ah-Hyuck.” He is a tall, human-like dog with a bumbling personality and frequently experiences mishaps. However, in general, he is well-mannered and kind.
When did Goofy first appear?
Disney animators Art Babbitt and Pinto Colvig created “Goofy” in the year of 1932.
Who provided the voice for Goofy?
Goofy was voiced by Paul Colvig, Dany Webb, Hal Smith, Tony Pope, Will Ryan, and Bill Farmer.
Popeye, the sailor man
A cartoon character called Popeye, the Sailor Man, is widely recognized. Remember how he has bulging muscles, closed eyes, and a unique style of speech? He has starred in a multitude of comics, cartoons, TV series, and films.
When did Popeye originate?
Popeye was established in 1929 by cartoonist Elzie Crisler Segar.
Who provided the voice for Popeye?
William Costello provided the voice for Popeye, and he was among the initial voiceover artists for the character. Throughout the years, various actors, such as Jack Mercer, Harry Welch, and others, have lent their voices to Popeye.
Woody Woodpecker
Woody woodpecker is an animated character who is funny for his unusual voice and appeal. He is a crazy and crazy bird who loves to do bad things and always gets caught up in soft romcoms. But still, he is a funny-looking character and doesn’t cease to entertain people for more than 80 years with his funny and naughty.
What year was Woody Woodpecker made?
Woody Woodpecker is the creation of Walter Lantz who designed this in the year 1940.
Who provided the voice for Woody Woodpecker?
Woody Woodpecker’s voice features the works of various voice actors such as Ben Hardaway, Grace Stafford, and Billy West, after Mel Blanc, who was the original voice actor, passed away.
Tweety Bird
Tweety Bird is an adorable and famous cartoon figure recognized for its innocent looks, characterized by long eyelashes and a high-pitched voice. Although its appearance may suggest femininity, Tweety is actually a male.
Tweety is a yellow canary who is pursued by Sylvester, the cat. The aim of the cat is to catch Tweety. However, in spite of Sylvester’s continuous and greatest attempts, Tweety successfully outsmarts him with his swift actions and cleverness.
When did Tweety come into existence?
Bob Clampett, an American cartoonist and animator, introduced Tweety in 1942, and this then became an instant hit.
Who provided the voice for Tweety Bird?
In the early phases, Mel Blanc provided the voice for Tweety Bird. After his demise, numerous voice actors such as Jeff Bergman, Bob Bergen, Sam Vincent, Billy West, and several others took over.
The Powerpuff Girls
The Powerpuff Girls, along with the City of Townsville, has become an international success with their crime-fighting and monster-battling abilities.
Combining both intelligence with analytical skills, Blossom continues to be the group leader, while Bubbles, on the other hand, is a sweet and innocent girl who can talk with all sorts of animals. Buttercup is the team’s fierce member and the most effective fighter.
When were the Powerpuff Girls made?
Craig McCracken, an animator, is the one who invented the iconic Powerpuff Girls trio in the year of 1992.
Who provided the voices for the Powerpuff Girls?
Tara Strong voiced Bubbles. Eric Cartman lent her voice to Buttercup, while Cathy Cavadini gave Blossom her voice.
Eric Cartman (South Park)
Eric Cartman originates from the animated TV show “South Park.” He is a cheeky and foul-spoken child frequently recognized for his rude behavior. Regardless of his actions, Cartman has emerged as one of the most recognizable and cherished characters in the show.
When did Eric Cartman come into existence?
Trey Parker and Matt Stone are the ones who developed Eric Cartman and are the ones who released it in 1997.
Who provided the voice for Eric Cartman?
Parker also lent his voice to the Eric character and is a co-creator of South Park alongside Matt Stone.
Garfield
Garfield is a chubby, sluggish orange feline who enjoys munching and napping. He resides with his owner, Jon Arbuckle, and his canine pet Odie. The series depicts Garfield as cynical, sarcastic, and egocentric. He is famous for his wit and for making sarcastic comments about his environment, including the individuals and animals near him.
When was Garfield invented?
Garfield was invented by Jim Davis in 1978.
Who provided the voice for the character Garfield?
Numerous individuals voiced Garfield; Lorenzo Music originally did it, but following his passing, Frank Welker, Bill Murray, and various other voice actors assumed the role.
Taz
Taz referred to as the Tasmanian Devil, is a well-known cartoon figure famous for his untamed and hostile personality. He is presented as a fierce being that often spins like a whirlwind.
When did Taz originate?
Taz made his screen debut in 1954, created by Robert McKimson, who was an animator at Warner Bros Animation Studio.
Who provided the voice for Taz?
Similar to several other characters on this list, Taz was originally voiced by Mel Blanc. If we consider the number of times Jim Cummings has voiced the characters more than anyone else.
Final Words
I’m confident that a few of those characters brought back memories for you. Decades have passed since these characters were created, but their influence in our minds continues to endure. That’s the influence cartoon characters can exert on an individual.
Are you curious about whether it’s possible to make cartoon characters that define the cartoon animation industry? Indeed, there is! Simply reach out to Prolific Studio, one of the best animation studios in LA!
