Cartoons have always been more than entertainment—they shape our childhood experiences, often change our perceptions, and sometimes allow us to see ourselves in the action. For many decades, Black cartoon characters have been integral figures in animation and have helped push past racist stereotypes while creating a much-needed presence for representation. It has been in Saturday morning cartoons (and children’s animated shows) and we see the effect they have on popular culture.
Now, let’s look at some of the most recognizable Black cartoon characters, and why they matter.
Black Cartoon Characters List
Classic Black Cartoon Characters Who Brought Us Here
Many years ago, animators and studios were daring even to include Black characters in their animated films. When they did, they usually were secondary characters or represented in a harmful stereotype. Still, some of them surfaced and became recognizeable characters.
1. Fat Albert (Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, 1972)
The show was created by Bill Cosby, and I consider Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids one of the first cartoons to have a (predominately) Black cast. Although, Bill Cosby later became a public figure known for sexual assault, and his (eventual) bad reputation came to light; the show itself was historic. Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids told stories that confronted real-life issues such as bullying, racism, and peer pressure, and though it was a comedy, it had much more to offer in terms of moral learning and friendship.
2. Penny (Inspector Gadget, 1983)
Penny was the clever techie niece of Inspector Gadget, who save the day tons of times while her bumbling uncle got tangled up in the mess of missions. She is one of the only black women in the ’80s cartoon era that wasn’t just a throwaway character, but she was integral to the story!
3. Doc McStuffins (Doc McStuffins, 2012)
Now let’s fast forward to the 2010s and we have Doc McStuffins! A Disney Junior show about a little black girl who “fixes” the toys in her play clinic. The show has been a huge vein of change because it normalized black children as leaders and was known to inspire children in real-life to seek out careers in medicine.
Modern Black Cartoon Characters and Impact Today, cartoons are growing and providing more room for inclusion. We are seeing more Black Cartoon Characters as principals in fun and meaningful ways.
4. Miles Morales (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, 2018)
Miles Morales is not just a Spider-Man, he is his own Spider-Man! Into the Spider-Verse gave us an Afro-latino hero based on the comic book character who deals with self-doubt, family expectations, the burden of expectation to live up to a legacy. The vibrant animation and meaningful story made Miles an instant and unquestionable icon.
5. Huey & Riley Freeman (The Boondocks, 2005-2014)
Aaron McGruder’s The Boondocks was bold, bravely unflinching, and sometimes controversial. The creators used the perspectives of Huey, the revolutionary activist older brother, and Riley, the hip-hop obsessed younger brother, to make pointed social commentary on Black culture, politics, and identity. The series represented an unapologetic voice and never shyed away from taking on problematic societal norms, creating a cult-classic phenomenon.
6. Craig (Craig of the Creek, 2018-Present)
Craig of the Creek is a wonderful re-imaging of childhood adventures in the way Craig, the Black boy with a big imagination, explores the wilderness of his neighborhood creek with a group of friends who are from a variety of backgrounds. The depiction of Black boyhood in the series is celebratory, whimsical, innocent, and void of negative stereotype.
7. Garnet, Steven Universe (Steven Universe, 2013-2020)
While Steven Universe was rooted in a fantastical world, Garnet was a unique standout character that served as Black-coded characters Ruby and Sapphire merged into one being that represented a strong, wise, and loving leader. Her design, voice (voiced by Estelle), and awesome confidence made her popular with fans.
Why Representation in Cartoons Matters
Having Black Cartoon Characters in cartoons is not only about diversity for diversity’s sake, but rather about giving some type of validation by showing Black kids heroes, scientists, leaders, and common kids who look like them. When Black kids see these characters, it sends a message: You belong here, if your stories are validated by who you see.
For example, Doc McStuffins, and Craig of the Creek show Black Cartoon Characters in positive roles that move beyond stereotypes, and in contrast, The Boondocks and Huey Freeman challenge the injustices in society. Even in fantastical worlds, such as Steven Universe which has Black-coded characters, such as Garnet, who exemplify strength and smarts in a different light.
The Future of Black Cartoon Characters
The animation industry has so far to go to level out the playing field, but has been making strides through allowing more Black creators to produce their own stories through animation and engage deeper with their characters.
With new shows coming down the pipeline such as Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (featuring a super genius Black teen superhero), and Iwájú (a new Disney animated series based in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria) we can see the future is bright.
Conclusions
Black Cartoon Characters have transitioned from sidekicks or comic relief, to lead characters, heroic figures, and role models. Through comedy, action, and deep heartfelt stories, animated characters inspire audiences of all ages.
Who is your favorite Black Cartoon Characters? Is it the brave Garnet, the brilliant Doc McStuffins, or the revolutionary Huey Freeman? It can’t be denied; these characters have impacted people in a deep and meaningful way. Here’s to more great and diverse Black Cartoon Characters in animation! Everyone should see characters that represent themselves on screen.
Also Read:- Ugly Animal Cartoon Characters: Why We Love the Unconventional
