This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Raven Minyard received her BA in English and Creative Writing from Sweet Briar College in 2020. While in college, she served as the Coeditor-in-Chief of Sweet Briar's literary magazine Red Clay and has since gone on to write for publications such as The Zillennial Zine and Halloween Every Night. Raven recalls reading articles from wikiHow's early days during her childhood and is thrilled to now write for their content team. She enjoys learning about new interests and topics with each article she writes and hopes to help audiences of all backgrounds continue to learn new and exciting things.
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Who’s your favorite cartoon character? If you’re anything like us, it’s hard to choose just one when there are so many hilarious options! To make things a bit easier, we’ve compiled a list of 56 of the funniest characters of all time—from classics like Bugs Bunny to modern, edgy characters like Eric Cartman from South Park. Keep reading to learn what makes these characters so silly and relatable, with insights from TV screenwriter Michael Jamin.
Who are the funniest cartoon characters?
TV screenwriter Michael Jamin says the funniest cartoon characters are Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Homer Simpson, Dale Gribble, and Peter Griffin. They all have strong attitudes and strong opinions, and that’s always funny to watch. Other funny characters include SpongeBob SquarePants, Uncle Grandpa, and Eric Cartman.
Steps
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Perhaps one of the most iconic cartoon characters for young Millennials and elder Gen Z, SpongeBob SquarePants is a fry cook at the Krusty Krab, whose silly antics land him in all kinds of situations. SpongeBob is known for his ridiculous laugh, his bubbly personality, and the fact that he doesn’t take anything too seriously… except things that aren’t serious at all, like writing a one-word essay or befriending a bubble.[1] X Research source
Meet the wikiHow Expert
Michael Jamin is a TV screenwriter, showrunner, and author. With over 28 years of writing experience, he is most known for his work on Just Shoot Me, King of the Hill, Beavis & Butt-Head, Wilfred, Out of Practice, and Rules of Engagement.
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Daffy Duck first appeared in 1937 and is one of the funniest Looney Tunes characters, alongside Bugs Bunny. He’s a bit of a drama king, is pretty paranoid, and is in constant competition with Bugs Bunny, who lives rent-free inside his brain. He isn’t levelheaded or moderate, which is always funny, says Jamin.[2] X Expert Source
Michael Jamin
TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author Expert Interview And that leads to some pretty hilarious slapstick comedy!
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Johnny Bravo premiered on Cartoon Network in 1997 and follows its titular character, who is loosely based on Elvis Presley and James Dean. Johnny is a self-absorbed, muscular guy who thinks every woman adores him, but he’s always wrong. His clueless confidence and Elvis-like voice make him a hilarious character.[3] X Research source
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Ed, Edd n Eddy first aired on Cartoon Network in 1999 and revolved around 3 friends who are outcasts in their cul-de-sac. Eddy is the idea guy, Edd is the smart one, and Ed… Well, Ed is chaotically dumb. He’s at the center of most of the show’s humor, and his actions often defy all logic, like being able to swallow an entire refrigerator of food.[4] X Research source
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Patrick is SpongeBob’s loyal but often dim-witted best friend and neighbor. He literally lives under a rock and offers a lot of dumb, lighthearted humor throughout the series. Perhaps what’s more funny, though, is when he actually offers insightful advice or commentary. Still, nothing can top his iconic line, “Is mayonnaise an instrument?”[5] X Research source
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The Simpsons premiered in 1989 and currently has 37 seasons. It follows Homer Simpson and his family in a satirical depiction of American life. Homer is the bumbling but lovable father, known for his laziness, impulsiveness, and obsession with donuts. The timing and delivery of his lines make every moment unforgettable, and he’s especially known for yelling “D’oh!” after every mistake. He has strong opinions, and even if they’re polarizing, they’re funny, says Jamin.[6] X Expert Source
Michael Jamin
TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author Expert Interview
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The iconic Tom and Jerry premiered in 1976 and follows Tom, the cat, and Jerry, the mouse, as they spend their days chasing and trying to trap each other. Tom usually gets the short end of the stick, always failing to capture Jerry and usually getting injured in a comedic and illogical way. The physical comedy is what makes this show so great.[7] X Research source
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Rick and Morty premiered in 2013 and currently has 8 seasons. It follows the grandfather/grandson duo Rick and Morty as they travel through space and time on various missions. Rick is extremely intelligent, and he tends to use his wit to insult others. He also has a darker, nihilistic sense of humor.[8] X Research source
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South Park first aired in 1997 and is still being produced today. It follows four foul-mouthed boys who live in a small town in Colorado and walks the line between satire and offensive humor. Eric Cartman is a pretty terrible person who often gets himself into funny situations because of his behavior. The other characters often tell him off, and the show isn’t afraid to give him what he deserves.[9] X Research source
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In The Fairly OddParents, 10-year-old Timmy Turner is granted two fairy godparents, Cosmo and Wanda, who grant his every wish to improve his life. These wishes, however, usually don’t go according to plan. Cosmo isn’t the brightest and often grants wishes he doesn’t understand, speaks before he thinks, and ends up turning Timmy’s problems into full-blown disasters. But it’s pretty funny to watch the chaos unfold![10] X Research source
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Bugs Bunny is perhaps the most iconic character from Looney Tunes. Though the show began in the 1930s, his humor is updated for each new generation and reboot that comes out. He’s quick-witted, sarcastic, and always three steps ahead of everyone else. His strong attitude is always hilarious to watch, according to Jamin.[11] X Expert Source
Michael Jamin
TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author Expert Interview
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Disney’s The Emperor’s New Groove follows Emperor Kuzco after he gets turned into a llama by his evil advisor, Yzma, and her assistant, Kronk. The whole plot of the movie is essentially Kronk’s fault, as he was supposed to poison Kuzco but gave him another potion instead. Despite technically being a villain, fans can’t help but love Kronk, as he talks to squirrels, bakes spinach puffs, and is generally dim-witted, but sweet.[12] X Research source
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Uncle Grandpa follows the titular character, who is a comedically dumb, yet magical human who travels around the world helping kids solve problems. He’s somehow everyone’s uncle and grandpa at the same time. He travels in a flying RV, hangs out with a slice of pizza wearing sunglasses, and somehow solves problems by making them worse.[13] X Research source
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Family Guy premiered in 1999 and currently has 24 seasons. This politically incorrect series follows the adventures of the Griffin family. Peter Griffin is a clueless but well-meaning dad whose ideas often land him in absurd and hilarious situations. “When he has something to say, it’s usually extreme. Not right down the middle. And that’s always funny,” says Jamin.[14] X Expert Source
Michael Jamin
TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author Expert Interview
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Yes, Timon and Pumbaa are two characters, but we had to include them together! They’re the iconic sidekicks from Disney’s The Lion King who help Simba on his journey to reclaim his title from Scar. Timon is a fast-talking meerkat, and Pumbaa is a carefree warthog. Together, their chaotic energy, bickering friendship, and problem-free philosophy (Hakuna Matata!) make their scenes unforgettable.[15] X Research source
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Pinky and the Brain first aired in 1995 and centers around two genetically enhanced laboratory mice, Pinky and the Brain. While the Brain is self-centered and scheming, Pinky is good-natured and kind of dumb. He doesn’t understand the Brain’s plan to take over the world, but supports him anyway. He laughs at everything, says “Narf!” for no reason, and is generally the comedic relief.[16] X Research source
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Adventure Time premiered on Cartoon Network in 2010 and follows Finn the Human and Jake the Dog on their adventures in the land of Ooo. Jake is Finn’s easygoing best friend and roommate. He has a witty and clever sense of humor, and he’s well-known for his iconic catchphrases and quotes.[17] X Research source
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Goofy was introduced to the Disney Universe in 1932 and has gone on to become one of the company’s most recognizable characters, alongside Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. He’s tall, clumsy, and good-natured, and most of his comedy is physical. He trips and tumbles through life, looking graceful in the dumbest way possible. He’s earnest, clueless, and can make you laugh without saying a word.[18] X Research source
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles follows four turtle brothers who were mutated into humanoid ninjas to fight crime. Michelangelo, or Mikey, is the laidback, party guy of the group. While his brothers can be more broody at times, he brings the jokes, has a pizza obsession, and uses random surfer lingo. He’s the comic relief that keeps the group from becoming too dark.[19] X Research source
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The Earl of Lemongrab, or simply Lemongrab, is a major antagonist in Adventure Time. He’s high-strung, over-zealous, obnoxious, and paranoid, but what makes him so funny is his voice. He’s known for shouting “Unacceptable!” in a loud, grating voice to show anger or displeasure.[20] X Research source
- Lemongrab is also on our list of the funniest-looking cartoon characters!
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Bob’s Burgers follows the Belcher family as they run their struggling hamburger restaurant and tackle everyday chaos. Tina is the Belcher’s oldest, most socially awkward child. What makes Tina so funny is how uncomfortable and cringeworthy she is; she likes horses, rainbows… and writing erotic fiction. Fans crack up at her deadpan delivery and over-the-top fantasies.
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BoJack Horseman first aired on Netflix in 2014 and follows BoJack Horseman, a washed-up sitcom star trying to find meaning in his life. BoJack is known for his dry humor and brutal honesty, which make him a unique mix of comedy and tragedy. One of his funniest moments is during a PR visit to an orphanage when he accidentally tells the kids that life is meaningless and that everyone will disappoint them.[21] X Research source
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Kim Possible first aired on Disney Channel in 2002 and follows teenage crime-fighter Kim Possible and her best friend, Ron Stoppable. Ron is Kim’s sidekick, but he’s not very good at the job. He’s clumsy and often lands the duo in trouble. He also has a pet naked mole rat named Rufus, and the two of them bring a lot of comedy to the action-packed show.
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King of the Hill first aired on Fox in 1997 and recently got a reboot. The show follows the Hill family and focuses on making everyday life humorous. Bobby Hill is the Hills’ son. He’s only 11 years old at the start of the show and is an aspiring comedian. Naturally, that makes him one of the funniest characters in the series! He’s also a little naive and good-hearted, making him a character that fans love.[22] X Research source
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Another funny character from King of the Hill is Dale Gribble, a pest exterminator who’s paranoid of the government. He constantly believes the government is out to get him, leading to ridiculous and high-stakes reactions to normal situations. Oh, and he’s hilariously oblivious to his wife’s affair and the fact that his biological son is not actually his! He’s “one of my favorite characters,” says Jamin.[23] X Expert Source
Michael Jamin
TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author Expert Interview
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Archer began airing on FX in 2009 and ran for 14 seasons. It follows a group of dysfunctional agents at an intelligence agency, and is essentially a workplace comedy with action and espionage. The titular character, Sterling Archer, is an alcoholic with the maturity of a teenager, but his humor is witty and sarcastic. Fans get a good laugh from his quick exchanges with his colleagues.
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Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! Premiered in 1969 and has seen many reboots, movies, and spinoffs since. The show follows Mystery Inc., a group of teenagers who solve mysteries, and their faithful dog, Scooby. Despite being a Great Dane, Scooby is a huge scaredy cat, often landing himself in comedic situations with the show’s villains. He also sounds pretty funny, as almost everything he says starts with an “R” sound.
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In Adventure Time, Lumpy Space Princess (or LSP) is a floating, lumpy, purple teenage princess from Lumpy Space. She’s known for her overdramatic teenage angst, self-centeredness, and her signature catchphrase, “Oh my glob.” She’s essentially a parody of moody teenagers, but fans also admire her for her confidence.[24] X Research source
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Harley Quinn premiered on HBO Max in 2019 and follows DC character Harley Quinn after her breakup with the Joker. In an attempt to become a villain in her own right, she assembles a team of other B-list villains. This version of Harley Quinn is witty, independent, and violent, and mixed with the strong personalities of the other characters, there isn’t an episode where she doesn’t make the audience laugh.[25] X Research source
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Genie was played by the late great comedian Robin Williams, so how could we not include him on this list? Genie is a larger-than-life character with a happy-go-lucky personality. His reality-bending powers allow for constant visual gags and pop culture parodies. He consistently breaks the fourth wall and makes fans of all ages laugh.
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Phineas and Ferb follows step-brothers Phineas and Ferb as they create various inventions while on summer vacation. The show’s side plot follows their pet platypus, Perry, who is actually a secret agent, as he protects the Tri-State Area from evil scientist, Heinz Doofenshmirtz. Doofenshmirtz is actually more funny than evil, and his absurd inventions always backfire. He and Perry have a unique dynamic that never fails to make fans laugh.[26] X Research source
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The Wild Thornberrys first aired on Nickelodeon in 1998 and follows Eliza, a girl who can communicate with animals, and her family (the Thornberrys) as they travel around the world creating wildlife documentaries. Her father, Nigel, is one of the most unique characters on the show. He has a wholesome sense of humor, a big personality, and isn’t afraid to embarrass himself. Plus, he speaks in a memorable fashion (thanks to his voice actor, the iconic Tim Curry), leading to multiple humorous scenes.[27] X Research source
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Premiering in 2001, The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy follows the grim reaper, Grim, as he is forced to be best friends with Billy and Mandy, two young children. Grim is very cynical and has a darker sense of humor, and he’s often forced to clean up the chaos caused by Billy and Mandy. He initially hates them, but grows to care for them over time.
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Avatar: The Last Airbender first aired on Nickelodeon in 2005 and takes place in a world of elemental benders. Aang, the Avatar, is awakened after 100 years and must end the war started by the Fire Nation, with the help of his friends, Sokka and Katara. Sokka is very smart and talented, but he acts very dumb at times, which leads to a lot of hilarious situations. One of his most notable scenes is when he hallucinates on cactus juice when the gang is in the desert.
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In Family Guy, Stewie is the Griffins’ baby boy. He’s also the smartest member of the family. In the earlier seasons, Stewie is depicted as an evil genius, and many of his funniest scenes involve him trying to take out his mother, Lois.[28] X Research source
- Stewie is also one of our most iconic bald characters of all time!
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Squidward Tentacles is SpongeBob’s neighbor and coworker, who is constantly annoyed by SpongeBob and Patrick’s antics. He’s grumpy, cynical, selfish, and sassy—and many fans think he’s hilarious and relatable. He’s constantly making comments about hating his life or sarcastically responding to other characters.[29] X Research source
- Are you more like SpongeBob, Patrick, or Squidward? Take our quiz to find out!
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Bart Simpson is Homer and Marge’s troublemaking son. He causes the most problems for the family, but he’s also the funniest. He’s constantly pranking the other characters, and some of his most iconic scenes involve his prank phone calls to Moe, the bartender.[30] X Research source
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American Dad first began airing in 2005 and currently has 20 seasons. It follows CIA agent Stan and his family, including their alien fugitive, Roger. After Roger saved his life, Stan saved him from the government's capture and let him live in his attic. However, Roger causes many problems for the family and often takes on different personas, including a son from another family and a serial criminal. Each persona is entertaining and hilarious.[31] X Research source
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Louise is the Belchers’ youngest and most mischievous child. She has a witty and sometimes chaotically dark sense of humor, and she roasts her family members in almost every episode. She’s constantly out for revenge, which lands her in funny and chaotic situations, like threatening to have a biker gang cut off the ears of a boy who stole her hat.[32] X Research source
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Futurama began airing in 1999 and currently has 13 seasons. The show takes place in the 31st century and follows the adventures of a mismatched delivery crew. Zoidberg is the crew’s doctor, though his doctorate is actually in art history. While well-intentioned, he’s not very good at his role, and it often tends to backfire on himself or the crew in hilarious ways.[33] X Research source
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Pink Panther first appeared in the opening sequence of The Pink Panther live-action film and later got his own cartoon series. He’s a cool, suave, and clumsy character who doesn’t typically speak; his humor comes entirely from slapstick and visual gags. Fans appreciate his mischievous antics and calm attitude.[34] X Research source
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The Japanese animated series Crayon Shin-chan first premiered in 1992 and follows Shinchan, a mischievous 5-year-old with no filter. Viewers are amused by his cheeky humor, weird dances, and awkward questions that embarrass his parents. His humor often parodies Japanese society and adult behavior through the lens of a child.
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Kick Buttowski: Suburban Daredevil premiered in 2010 and follows Kick, a young boy who dreams of becoming the world’s greatest daredevil. His over-the-top stunts, confidence, and lack of both fear and common sense make him unintentionally hilarious. He treats the most mundane tasks like action movie missions.
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The Flintstones first aired in 1960, making it television’s first prime-time animated series. It follows the Flintstones, a family of cavemen, and their life in a modernized Stone Age. Fred Flintstone is a loud, lovable father known for his over-the-top personality and constant get-rich-quick schemes. His bumbling antics and classic catchphrase, “Yabba-Dabba-Doo!” make him a timelessly hilarious character.[35] X Research source
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Anime fans, don’t hate us for including One Piece in a “cartoon” article! This popular anime follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they search for the mythical treasure known as “One Piece.” Luffy is energetic and simple-minded, and his hilarious innocence and insatiable hunger often land him in ridiculous situations. His childlike optimism and goofy grin make him one of anime’s funniest heroes.[36] X Research source
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Candace is the older sister of Phineas and Ferb, who spends every episode trying and failing to “bust” her brothers and show their inventions to their mother. Her dramatic overreactions, wild imagination, and hilarious persistence make her comedy gold. Her catchphrase, “Moooom! Phineas and Ferb are *insert invention here*” has become a fan-favorite meme.[37] X Research source
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In 2002’s Lilo & Stitch, Stitch is a chaotic blue alien that escapes to Earth and gets adopted by a little girl named Lilo. Stitch has a knack for destruction, and the movie is filled with hilarious slapstick comedy. His mischievous behavior, gibberish speech, and surprising tenderness make him both funny and lovable.
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Donald Duck first appeared in Disney’s The Wise Little Hen in 1934 and has become one of the company’s most iconic characters since. He’s known for his fiery temper, incomprehensible speech, and endless bad luck, making him a hilarious icon of slapstick humor.[38] X Research source
- Fun fact: Donald Duck has appeared in over 190 theatrical films, which is more than any other Disney character—even Mickey Mouse himself!
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Based on the book series of the same name, Arthur follows an 8-year-old aardvark named Arthur Read as he faces challenges at home and in school. One of the challenges he faces at home is his little sister, D.W. She’s the typical bratty little sister, often annoying Arthur and his friends. She can be pretty cruel at times, but over the years, fans have realized just how funny her mean, sarcastic comments are. She’s become an icon in her own right.
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Gravity Falls follows the Pines twins, Dipper and Mabel, as they discover the secrets and magical creatures of the small town of Gravity Falls. While Dipper can be more serious, Mabel is energetic, optimistic, outgoing, and boy-crazy. Part of her charm is that she isn’t always aware of her silliness.
- Do you think you’re more of a Mabel or a Dipper? Take our “Which Gravity Falls Character Are You?” quiz to find out!
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Wile E. Coyote is a Looney Tunes character known for his constant battles with Roadrunner. Like Tom from Tom & Jerry, Coyote usually gets the short end of the stick. He plans elaborate traps for Roadrunner, only to be the one harmed by them. These characters can get a laugh out of practically anyone without ever uttering a word.[39] X Research source
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We couldn’t include Scooby without mentioning his best friend, Shaggy! Like Scooby, Shaggy is a huge scaredy-cat who often ends up face-to-face with the monsters he’s trying to avoid. While known for his insatiable appetite and his constant use of the word “like,” Shaggy has also had his fair share of sarcastic comments and witty one-liners over the years.[40] X Research source
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Sleeping Beauty may not be the first movie you think of when you hear “comedy,” but the Three Good Fairies (Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather) are actually hilarious! They constantly bicker with each other and want the others to go along with their ideas and decisions. Who could forget their iconic argument about what color Aurora’s dress should be?
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Last but certainly not least is everyone’s favorite lizard… I mean, dragon… from Mulan! Mushu is played by comedian Eddie Murphy, so it’s no surprise he adds a ton of comedic relief to a movie that otherwise has a pretty serious plot. He’s loud, boastful, and impulsive, and while he lands her in a lot of trouble along the way, he grows to truly care about Mulan.
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References
- ↑ https://screenrant.com/funniest-cartoon-characters-ever/
- ↑ Michael Jamin. TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://johnnybravo.fandom.com/wiki/Johnny_Bravo_(character)
- ↑ https://ed.fandom.com/wiki/Ed
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ Michael Jamin. TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://happymag.tv/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://screenrant.com/funniest-cartoon-characters-ever/
- ↑ https://fairlyoddparents.fandom.com/wiki/Cosmo
- ↑ Michael Jamin. TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://disney.fandom.com/wiki/Kronk
- ↑ https://uncle-grandpa.fandom.com/wiki/Uncle_Grandpa_(Character)
- ↑ Michael Jamin. TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://animaniacs.fandom.com/wiki/Pinky
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://tmnt2012series.fandom.com/wiki/Michelangelo
- ↑ https://adventuretime.fandom.com/wiki/Earl_of_Lemongrab
- ↑ https://happymag.tv/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ Michael Jamin. TV Screenwriter, Showrunner, and Author. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://adventuretime.fandom.com/wiki/Lumpy_Space_Princess
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://screenrant.com/funniest-cartoon-characters-ever/
- ↑ https://happymag.tv/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://screenrant.com/funniest-cartoon-characters-ever/
- ↑ https://screenrant.com/funniest-cartoon-characters-ever/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://happymag.tv/funny-cartoon-characters/
- ↑ https://www.toonarific.com/funny-cartoon-characters/
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