#10: Miguel Rivera (Coco)
Miguel may be one of the more recent entries on this list, but his emotional journey in Coco made an instant impact on audiences around the world. As a young aspiring musician in a family that banned music, Miguel’s love for melody leads him into the vibrant Land of the Dead. What makes Miguel so memorable isn’t just his charm or courage—it’s his devotion to family and the legacy of those who came before him. His journey of self-discovery intertwines tradition, loss, and passion in a way that celebrates both the beauty of music and the importance of honoring one’s roots. Coco’s stunning visuals, tear-jerking story, and cultural depth are elevated by Miguel’s sincerity and heart. His guitar became a symbol of love, remembrance, and personal truth—and his song “Remember Me” still echoes in hearts today.
#9: Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III (How to Train Your Dragon Series)
Hiccup is the perfect example of a character who grows up before our eyes. From an awkward Viking misfit to the wise chief of Berk, Hiccup’s transformation is one of the richest arcs in animation. At the core of his story is his unlikely friendship with Toothless, a dragon he was expected to kill but instead chose to save. This decision changes not only his fate, but the fate of his entire tribe. Hiccup shows that true leadership isn’t about brute strength—it’s about empathy, innovation, and the courage to challenge tradition. His bond with Toothless is so deep that it redefined what a “hero and sidekick” could look like. As he ages across the trilogy, Hiccup represents growth, responsibility, and the bittersweet nature of change.
#8: Genie (Aladdin)
Robin Williams’ performance as the Genie in Aladdin changed animation forever. Bursting with energy, impressions, and improvisational brilliance, Genie was more than just a wish-granter—he was the heart and soul of the film. What made Genie so special wasn’t just his humor (though he was hilarious)—it was his yearning for freedom, his loyalty to Aladdin, and the fact that behind all the magic was a deeply kind spirit. Genie broke the mold for animated sidekicks and became a pop culture phenomenon in his own right. His design, expressive animation, and blend of ancient mysticism with modern-day comedy created a timeless character. To this day, the line “Phenomenal cosmic powers… itty bitty living space” is instantly recognizable and beloved.
#7: WALL-E (WALL-E)
In a film with barely any spoken dialogue, WALL-E managed to communicate more emotion than most live-action performances. As a trash-compacting robot left alone on an abandoned Earth, WALL-E’s curiosity, kindness, and hope brought humanity back to a desolate world. His love for the sleek robot EVE adds depth to his seemingly mechanical nature, revealing a soul behind the steel. Pixar crafted him with impeccable detail—from his clunky movements to the expressive binocular eyes that conveyed everything from awe to heartbreak. WALL-E is a tribute to silent cinema, environmental awareness, and the enduring power of love. He’s one of those rare characters who speaks volumes without saying a word.
#6: Shrek (Shrek Series)
Shrek turned fairy tales on their heads and gave us an ogre we didn’t know we needed. Grumpy, blunt, and wonderfully unfiltered, Shrek redefined what it meant to be a leading man in an animated film. His journey from reclusive swamp-dweller to unlikely hero and loving father is layered with humor, satire, and surprising vulnerability. Shrek’s character helped usher in a new wave of animated storytelling—one that wasn’t afraid to poke fun at tradition, challenge beauty standards, and let the “monsters” take center stage. His chemistry with Donkey, his romance with Fiona, and his general grump-to-gold evolution have made him a fixture of pop culture and one of DreamWorks’ most iconic faces.
#5: Buzz Lightyear (Toy Story Series)
“To infinity and beyond!” With that catchphrase, Buzz Lightyear shot straight into the hearts of millions. Originally a delusional space ranger who didn’t realize he was a toy, Buzz became a symbol of loyalty, bravery, and personal growth. Over the course of the Toy Story films, Buzz evolved from comic relief to true co-lead, showcasing his vulnerabilities, insecurities, and unwavering support for Woody and the rest of Andy’s toys. His sleek design, action figure swagger, and voice performance by Tim Allen made him unforgettable. More than just a toy, Buzz represented the idea of finding purpose, identity, and friendship—even when your universe turns out to be made of plastic.
#4: Elsa (Frozen Series)
Elsa isn’t your average Disney princess—she’s a queen with powers she doesn’t fully understand, a traumatic past, and a path to self-discovery that’s anything but simple. Her struggle to control her ice powers is a metaphor for anxiety, isolation, and internalized pressure. Frozen’s “Let It Go” didn’t just become a hit—it became a cultural anthem for self-acceptance. Elsa’s evolution from fearful royal to empowered leader continues into Frozen II, where she searches for the truth of who she is and where she belongs. She’s a beacon for kids (and adults) who wrestle with identity and the fear of being different. Elsa shattered the mold of “waiting to be saved” and proved that sometimes, saving yourself is the most powerful act of all.
#3: Woody (Toy Story Series)
Woody is the emotional backbone of the Toy Story franchise. Loyal to a fault, brave in the face of change, and always putting others before himself, Woody’s journey spans friendship, jealousy, loss, and ultimately letting go. His rivalry-turned-brotherhood with Buzz Lightyear is one of the greatest arcs in animated history. What sets Woody apart is his deeply human flaws—his fear of being replaced, his struggle with purpose, and his instinct to lead even when the path is unclear. Voiced perfectly by Tom Hanks, Woody has been at the center of Pixar’s most heart-wrenching and uplifting moments. From “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” to his emotional goodbye in Toy Story 4, Woody is the soul of the franchise and a true cinematic legend.
#2: Spider-Man / Miles Morales (Spider-Verse Series)
Miles Morales redefined what it means to wear the mask. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse didn’t just give us stunning visuals—it gave us a relatable hero for a new generation. Miles is smart, artistic, and deeply human, grappling with identity, loss, and responsibility. His journey from unsure teen to full-fledged Spider-Man is one of the most empowering in animation. What makes Miles stand out is how grounded he feels—even when swinging through multiverses. His Afro-Latino heritage, unique aesthetic, and personal growth made him a milestone in representation and storytelling. “Anyone can wear the mask” became a rallying cry, and Miles made that truth real.
#1: Simba (The Lion King)
Simba’s journey from carefree cub to reluctant king is one of the most iconic arcs in animated film. The Lion King blends Shakespearean tragedy with breathtaking animation and unforgettable music to tell the story of a lion who must face his past and embrace his destiny. Simba’s struggles with guilt, loss, and responsibility are universally resonant. His relationships—with Mufasa, Nala, Timon, and Pumbaa—shape him into a leader worthy of Pride Rock. From the heartbreak of “Circle of Life” to the triumphant return to take back his home, Simba’s story is epic in scale and intimate in emotion. He’s not just a Disney prince—he’s a symbol of growth, courage, and legacy.
