StrawPoll

The Most Beloved Cartoon, Ranked

Choose the cartoon you think is the most beloved!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 3, 2024 06:21
Cartoons hold a special place in the hearts of many, serving as a gateway to laughter and nostalgia across diverse age groups. Determining which of these animated gems stands out as the most adored can spark engaging discussions and friendly debates. Such rankings offer a snapshot of cultural preferences and trends, reflecting a collective affection for specific characters and stories. On this site, voting becomes a pivotal tool by which fans voice their preferences, directly influencing the live ranking of beloved cartoons. Each vote contributes to constructing a clearer picture of which animations resonate most profoundly with audiences today. This dynamic system ensures that every fan's opinion is counted, making each ranking refresh an exciting revelation of current tastes and favorite classics.

What Is the Most Beloved Cartoon?

  1. 1
    67
    votes

    SpongeBob SquarePants

    Stephen Hillenburg
    This classic Nickelodeon show has been entertaining audiences of all ages for over 20 years with its wacky humor and lovable characters.
    SpongeBob SquarePants is an animated television series that follows the adventures of a yellow sponge named SpongeBob SquarePants, who lives underwater in the fictional underwater city of Bikini Bottom.
    • Genre: Animated Comedy
    • First Aired: May 1, 1999
    • Target Audience: Children and Adults
    • Episode Count: over 250 episodes
    • Main Characters: SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Squidward Tentacles, Mr. Krabs
    SpongeBob SquarePants in other rankings
  3. 2
    53
    votes
    The Simpsons
    Miguel Mendez from Malahide, Ireland · CC BY 2.0

    The Simpsons

    Matt Groening
    This long-running adult animated sitcom has become a cultural phenomenon with its irreverent humor and satirical take on American life.
    The Simpsons is a popular animated television show that revolves around the lives of the Simpson family, consisting of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie, living in the fictional town of Springfield. The show is known for its satire, humor, and portrayal of American culture. It often tackles various social and political issues in a lighthearted manner, making it a favorite among viewers of all ages.
    • First Episode Air Date: December 17, 1989
    • Genre: Animated sitcom
    • Number of Seasons: 32 (as of 2021)
    • Number of Episodes: 703 (as of 2021)
    • Average Episode Length: Approximately 22 minutes
    The Simpsons in other rankings
  4. 3
    24
    votes
    Tom and Jerry
    Zarateman · CC0

    Tom and Jerry

    This classic cat-and-mouse duo has been entertaining audiences since 1940 with their slapstick humor and timeless antics.
    Tom and Jerry is a beloved animated cartoon series that revolves around the comedic rivalry between a house cat named Tom and a clever mouse named Jerry. The cartoons are known for their slapstick humor and the constant chases and chaotic battles between the two characters.
    • Genre: Comedy
    • Format: Animated television series
    • Release Date: 1940
    • Running Time: Usually around 7 minutes
    • Number of Episodes: 164 theatrical shorts
    Tom and Jerry in other rankings
  5. 4
    15
    votes
    Looney Tunes
    Warner Bros. Entertainment · Public domain

    Looney Tunes

    Warner Bros. Animation
    This iconic Warner Bros. series of cartoons features beloved characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig, and has been entertaining audiences since the 1930s.
    Looney Tunes is a well-known animated series that features a variety of comedic and slapstick adventures. The series primarily revolves around a large and colorful cast of characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, and many others. Developed by Warner Bros. Animation, Looney Tunes has entertained audiences of all ages since its debut in 1930.
    • First Episode: 1929
    • Genre: Comedy
    • Animation Style: Traditional 2D animation
    • Running Time: varying, typically 6-10 minutes per short
    • Number of Episodes: 1,041
    Looney Tunes in other rankings
  6. 5
    22
    votes
    Mickey Mouse
    Post of Albania · Public domain

    Mickey Mouse

    Walt Disney
    This beloved Disney character has been entertaining audiences since his debut in 1928, and has become a cultural icon and symbol of the Disney brand.
    Mickey Mouse is an iconic cartoon character known for his cheerful and adventurous personality. He is a anthropomorphic mouse with large round ears and typically wears red shorts, large yellow shoes, and white gloves. Mickey Mouse is often seen with his girlfriend Minnie Mouse and his pet dog Pluto. He is the official mascot of The Walt Disney Company and has become one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in popular culture worldwide.
    • First Appearance: 1928
    • Species: Mouse
    • Gender: Male
    • Signature Colors: Red, Yellow, and Black
    • Famous Catchphrase: Oh boy!
    Mickey Mouse in other rankings
  7. 6
    8
    votes

    Avatar: The Last Airbender

    This critically acclaimed Nickelodeon series is beloved for its compelling characters, epic storyline, and stunning animation.
    Avatar: The Last Airbender is an animated television series that aired on Nickelodeon. It is set in a world where some people have the ability to manipulate the elements of water, earth, fire, and air. The storyline follows Aang, the last surviving Airbender who is also the Avatar, a person capable of bending all four elements and maintaining balance in the world. As he embarks on a journey to master the elements and defeat the Fire Nation, he is accompanied by his friends Katara, Sokka, and later on, Toph and Zuko.
    • Genre: Action-adventure fantasy
    • Original network: Nickelodeon
    • Number of seasons: 3
    • Total number of episodes: 61
    • Average episode runtime: 22 minutes
    Avatar: The Last Airbender in other rankings
  8. 7
    7
    votes

    Pokemon

    This long-running franchise of games, anime, and merchandise has captured the hearts of millions with its lovable creatures and engaging storylines.
    Pokémon is a popular franchise that originated from a video game created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori. It has expanded into an animated television series, trading card game, movies, merchandise, and more. The world of Pokémon features creatures called Pokémon, which humans, known as Pokémon Trainers, catch and train to battle each other for sport. The objective for trainers is to become a Pokémon Master by collecting and training as many different species of Pokémon as possible.
    • Video Game Release Date: 26th February 1996
    • Animated TV Series Release Date: 1st April 1997
    • Number of Pokémon Species: 898
    • Number of Pokémon Generations: 8
    • Main Protagonist: Ash Ketchum
  9. 8
    1
    votes

    Rugrats

    This classic Nickelodeon show follows the adventures of a group of babies and has become a beloved childhood favorite for many.
    Rugrats is a popular animated television series that aired on Nickelodeon. It follows the adventures of a group of babies and toddlers, specifically Tommy Pickles, Chuckie Finster, twins Phil and Lil DeVille, and Angelica Pickles. The show primarily focuses on the imaginative and often mischievous escapades of these lovable characters as they navigate through everyday life and childhood milestones.
    • First aired: August 11, 1991
    • Last aired: June 8, 2004
    • Total seasons: 9
    • Total episodes: 172
    • Genre: Animated comedy
  10. 9
    8
    votes

    Scooby-Doo

    This iconic series of cartoons features a group of teenagers and their talking dog as they solve mysteries and unmask villains.
    Scooby-Doo is an iconic animated series that revolves around the adventures of a group of teenagers and their talking dog, Scooby-Doo. They solve mysteries involving ghosts, monsters, and other supernatural beings. The show combines elements of comedy, suspense, and the supernatural, making it beloved by audiences of all ages.
    • Original Release Date: September 13, 1969
    • Genre: Mystery, Comedy, Animation
    • Episodes: Over 400 episodes (as of 2021)
    • Running Time: 22 minutes per episode
    • Setting: Varies, but typically involves haunted locations or mysterious settings
  11. 10
    4
    votes
    Dragon Ball Z
    Toei Animation · Public domain

    Dragon Ball Z

    Akira Toriyama
    This popular anime series has been entertaining audiences since the 1980s with its epic battles, engaging storyline, and memorable characters.
    Dragon Ball Z is a popular anime series that follows the adventures of Goku, a Saiyan warrior, as he defends Earth against various villains. The story continues from the original Dragon Ball series and features intense battles, epic transformations, and a focus on friendship and personal growth.
    • Dragon Balls: Seven magical spheres that, when gathered, grant a wish
    • Continuations/Sequels: Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Super
    • Number of Episodes: 291
    • Original Run: April 26, 1989 – January 31, 1996
    • Genre: Action, Adventure
    Dragon Ball Z in other rankings

Missing your favorite cartoon?

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Ranking factors for beloved cartoon

  1. Popularity
    Consider the overall popularity of the cartoon. Popularity can be measured by the number of viewers, fan following, or merchandise sales.
  2. Longevity
    A beloved cartoon is likely to have been on air for a significant amount of time or have multiple seasons and episodes.
  3. Cultural impact
    The extent to which the cartoon has made an impact on popular culture, such as catchphrases, iconic characters, or memorable scenes.
  4. Character development
    Memorable and well-developed characters that resonate with the audience can contribute significantly to a cartoon's status as beloved.
  5. Storylines
    Engaging, entertaining, and thought-provoking storylines are an important factor in a cartoon's appeal.
  6. Art style
    The art style and animation quality can enhance the overall look and feel of a cartoon, making it more visually appealing to audiences.
  7. Target audience
    Consider the age demographic that the cartoon is aimed at, as well as its ability to appeal to different age groups.
  8. Diversity and representation
    A diverse set of characters and stories that represent various cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives can contribute to a cartoon's appeal and relevance.
  9. Humor
    The level of humor and wit in the dialogue, situations, and comedic timing of the cartoon plays a significant role in its popularity.
  10. Educational value
    A cartoon's ability to educate and illuminate complex or important topics in a fun and engaging way can contribute to its overall appeal and beloved status.
  11. Theme music and sound
    A catchy and iconic theme song, along with memorable sound effects and background music, can enhance a cartoon's lasting impact.
  12. Critical acclaim
    A cartoon that has received praise and recognition from critics and industry professionals may be considered more beloved.
  13. Awards and accolades
    A cartoon that has won awards or earned other significant accolades, such as high ratings or inclusion in top lists, can be a measure of its beloved status.
  14. Nostalgia
    The sentimental value and nostalgia tied to a cartoon for those who grew up watching it can play a crucial role in its overall appeal and beloved status.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beloved cartoon. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or cartoon is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2161 views
  • 209 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each cartoon once every 24 hours. The rank of each cartoon is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beloved cartoon

Cartoons have been a mainstay of popular culture for nearly a century, captivating audiences of all ages with their colorful characters and imaginative storylines. From the classic characters of Walt Disney to the irreverent humor of Adult Swim, cartoons have evolved to become a diverse and beloved genre of entertainment. But what makes a cartoon truly great? Is it the quality of the animation, the depth of the characters, or the humor and wit of the writing? Whatever the criteria, one thing is certain – everyone has their own personal favorite. In this poll, we aim to determine the most beloved cartoon of all time. Will it be a classic like Looney Tunes or The Simpsons, or a newer show like Rick and Morty or Steven Universe? Cast your vote and join the conversation about what makes cartoons such a cherished part of our cultural landscape.

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