#10: Olaf – Frozen
Olaf, the enchanted snowman from Frozen, isn’t just a cute comic relief—he’s the emotional glue that binds the film’s wintry tale. Created by Elsa’s magic and brought to life with endless curiosity and warmth, Olaf is a sidekick defined by innocence and unwavering optimism. Voiced brilliantly by Josh Gad, Olaf’s charm lies in his childlike wonder and heartfelt loyalty. His dream of experiencing summer (“In Summer”) is hilarious and tragically sweet—only Olaf could long for sun while being made of snow.
But Olaf isn’t just there for laughs. In both Frozen and Frozen II, he supports Anna and Elsa through their emotional journeys, often grounding them when things go dark. His ability to see the best in everyone is a quiet form of bravery. And when Olaf begins to “flurry” away in the sequel, it’s a genuinely heartbreaking moment that reminds us how deeply sidekicks can matter. In a franchise filled with magic and royalty, Olaf stands tall—figuratively—as the heart of the story.
#9: Goose – Top Gun
In the adrenaline-fueled skies of Top Gun, one name echoes with warmth and loyalty: Goose. Nick Bradshaw, played by Anthony Edwards, is Maverick’s radar intercept officer, but more importantly, he’s his confidant, comic relief, and conscience. Goose brings humor and humanity to a high-octane movie full of ego and competition. His easygoing nature contrasts perfectly with Maverick’s intensity, grounding the film emotionally.
Goose isn’t just there for backup—he’s integral to Maverick’s growth. Their friendship is the emotional core of the story, and Goose’s tragic death is a moment that redefines the tone of the film. The loss hits hard not just for Maverick, but for audiences who’ve come to love his big smile, goofy energy, and deep sense of duty. Goose reminded us that sidekicks aren’t just background players—they’re the heartbeats of heroes.
#8: Donkey – Shrek
Loud, loyal, and completely lovable, Donkey from Shrek redefined what it means to be an animated sidekick. Voiced by Eddie Murphy in one of his most iconic roles, Donkey is a whirlwind of nonstop chatter, unexpected wisdom, and endearing honesty. He brings out Shrek’s softer side, breaking through layers of grumpiness with sheer persistence and joy. From singing “I’m All Alone” to forming an unlikely romance with a dragon, Donkey’s wild energy keeps Shrek fresh, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt.
But Donkey isn’t just a punchline machine. He’s the one who reminds Shrek that he’s worthy of friendship and love. That emotional weight, mixed with his endless humor, makes Donkey one of the best sidekicks in animation history. Plus, who else could turn waffles into a rallying cry?
#7: Chewbacca – Star Wars
Chewbacca, the towering Wookiee with a heart of gold, is the definition of loyal. First introduced in Star Wars: A New Hope, Chewie has been by Han Solo’s side through thick and thin—from the halls of the Millennium Falcon to the trenches of the Resistance. Despite speaking only in roars and growls, Chewbacca’s emotions come through loud and clear. He’s a protector, a warrior, and surprisingly, a big softie.
What makes Chewbacca such an iconic sidekick is his unwavering support. Whether carrying a wounded comrade, piloting through asteroid fields, or letting out a mournful cry when Han falls, Chewie is never just a background character. He’s family. And in a galaxy full of droids, Jedi, and smugglers, Chewbacca stands tall—literally and figuratively—as one of the most beloved sidekicks of all time.
#6: Samwise Gamgee – The Lord of the Rings
If loyalty had a face, it would look like Samwise Gamgee. In The Lord of the Rings, Sam is more than Frodo’s gardener—he’s his strength, his anchor, and his salvation. Played beautifully by Sean Astin, Sam begins as a humble companion and ends as a quiet hero whose determination outshines even the flashiest warriors. He doesn’t have a sword like Aragorn or the magic of Gandalf, but he has something more powerful: unwavering heart.
Through every battle, betrayal, and moment of despair, Sam sticks by Frodo’s side. When Frodo can’t go on, Sam carries him. “I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you” is one of the most powerful lines in fantasy film history—and a perfect summary of Sam’s role. He’s proof that courage isn’t about slaying monsters—it’s about standing by the people you love, no matter the odds. In the end, the fate of Middle-earth depended not on might, but on friendship. And Sam was its purest form.
#5: Genie – Aladdin
Genie, voiced by Robin Williams in Disney’s Aladdin, didn’t just steal the show—he turned the whole movie into a magical whirlwind of comedy, heart, and unforgettable songs. With his blue glow, limitless powers, and lightning-fast impressions, Genie is one of the most dynamic animated characters ever created. But beneath the jokes and sparkle is a sidekick who truly cares about his friend’s happiness.
What makes Genie special isn’t just his power—it’s how he uses it. He supports Aladdin not just with wishes, but with wisdom. He challenges Aladdin to be honest, to be himself, and in the end, Genie doesn’t seek freedom through manipulation. He earns it through friendship. His final moment, floating free and smiling wide, is one of Disney’s most touching conclusions. Genie is a reminder that sidekicks can be showstoppers—and heartwarmers at the same time.
#4: Dr. John Watson – Sherlock Holmes
Whether it’s Basil Rathbone’s era or the explosive Robert Downey Jr. version, Dr. John Watson is the ultimate thinking man’s sidekick. While Sherlock Holmes dazzles with deduction and eccentricity, Watson is the grounded center—the everyman who sees the genius and madness in his friend and sticks around anyway. He’s not just a chronicler or bystander—Watson is an active partner who offers strategy, bravery, and the occasional eye roll.
What elevates Watson is his unwavering loyalty in the face of Sherlock’s brilliance (and arrogance). He’s a doctor, a veteran, and a man of principle, often providing the moral compass Holmes lacks. And yet, he’s never boring. Their partnership is the gold standard for detective duos, and it’s Watson’s presence that turns Holmes from an aloof genius into a relatable human being. No matter the adaptation, Watson proves that a good sidekick is equal parts companion, critic, and confidant.
#3: Donkey Kong – The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
A recent but worthy entry, Donkey Kong’s portrayal in The Super Mario Bros. Movie gave the banana-loving brute a spotlight as Mario’s rival-turned-ally. Voiced by Seth Rogen, this DK is brash, cocky, and hilarious. While the original video game rivalry between Mario and Donkey Kong started decades ago, the movie gives it new life with humor and heart. Their team-up is rocky at first, but it evolves into mutual respect and epic tag-team action.
Donkey Kong brings raw strength, comic timing, and a whole lot of swagger to the film’s energy. His family drama with Cranky Kong adds depth, and his unlikely bond with Mario adds that essential buddy-comedy vibe. As a sidekick, DK brings a mix of comic muscle and vulnerable charm—earning his spot alongside legends with a single barrel toss.
#2: Buzz Lightyear – Toy Story Series
Buzz Lightyear may have started out as a rival, but he quickly became Woody’s ride-or-die partner throughout the Toy Story saga. Voiced by Tim Allen, Buzz brought humor, honor, and galactic delusions to Andy’s bedroom in the first film. But what makes him a true sidekick icon is his growth. He evolves from a plastic astronaut who believes he’s a real space ranger to a loyal friend who would risk everything for his crew.
Buzz’s arc is deeply emotional—he learns humility, teamwork, and the value of friendship. His dynamic with Woody is one of cinema’s best duos: they bicker, battle, and ultimately bond like brothers. Buzz is brave, devoted, and always ready to “fall with style.” From “To infinity and beyond” to quiet moments of support, Buzz Lightyear proved that sidekicks can be just as heroic as the leads—and sometimes even more.
#1: Robin – Batman Franchise
When it comes to sidekicks, Robin is the blueprint. First appearing in comic books and later brought to life in countless films, Robin—whether it’s Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, or others—isn’t just Batman’s partner. He’s a symbol of hope, youth, and humanity in the Dark Knight’s grim world. In a city ruled by shadows, Robin is the one who brings light. From Burt Ward’s cheerful sidekick in the 1966 Batman to Chris O’Donnell’s acrobatic portrayal in the ’90s films and modern iterations in animated features, Robin’s legacy endures.
Robin balances Batman’s intensity with empathy and humor. He challenges Bruce Wayne, questions authority, and fights with his own sense of justice. While Batman broods, Robin believes. That emotional contrast is what makes the partnership so powerful. More than just a “kid sidekick,” Robin is a hero in his own right—one who stands beside greatness and eventually becomes it.
Sidekicks might not wear the cape, sit in the captain’s chair, or get top billing—but they’re often the ones who win our hearts. These unforgettable characters made us laugh, cry, and cheer louder than the leads. Whether animated, intergalactic, or grounded in reality, the best sidekicks don’t stand in the shadows—they shine right beside the hero.
