Fat Cartoon Character Names: Celebrating the Iconic and Lovable

June 9, 2025

Fat Cartoon Character Names That Made Animation History

When it comes to memorable cartoon characters, size is part of the charm. Fat cartoon character names are not just funny or descriptive—they're symbols of warmth, humor, and relatability. From lazy cats to lovable dads, these characters have shaped generations of animation fans.

Below, we explore some of the most famous fat cartoon characters, diving into what makes each one iconic. This isn’t just a list—it’s a tribute to cartoon history.

Garfield – The King of Lasagna and Laziness

Let’s kick things off with Garfield, the orange tabby who has no time for Mondays. Known for his sarcastic humor, love of lasagna, and unapologetic laziness, Garfield is arguably one of the most recognized fat cartoon character names ever. He first appeared in 1978, created by Jim Davis, and has since dominated newspaper strips, TV specials, and movies.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Signature traits: Overeating, sleeping, and mocking Jon.
  • Cultural icon of ‘chubby confidence’.

Homer Simpson – America’s Favorite TV Dad

Homer Simpson, from The Simpsons, is perhaps the quintessential fat cartoon dad. He’s the embodiment of working-class America, always torn between doughnuts, beer, and parenting.

Fun Fact: Homer's love for food often drives the plot—remember the episode where he gained weight to work from home?

Why He Stands Out:

  • Instantly recognizable voice and catchphrases (“D’oh!”).
  • Embraces flaws while still being loveable.

Totoro – A Giant Spirit with a Gentle Soul

Studio Ghibli’s Totoro may not be a traditional example when we think of fat cartoon character names, but his rotund figure and giant belly are essential to his comforting aesthetic. He’s more than a mascot—he’s a spiritual friend and guardian.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Nonverbal character, yet emotionally expressive.
  • Hugely influential in global animation culture.

Eric Cartman – The Infamous Brat

From South Park, Eric Cartman is equal parts hilarious and horrifying. He’s crude, selfish, manipulative, and overweight—traits that the show never shies away from. Unlike others on this list, Cartman’s weight is often a subject of the show’s dark humor.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Represents unchecked id in child form.
  • Consistently controversial and quotable.

Fat Albert – Hey Hey Hey!

**Fat Albert****, created by Bill Cosby, was designed to be a kind, moral center for his group of friends. Debuting in the 1970s, he used his size not for comedy alone, but to represent warmth and leadership.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Early example of a plus-sized character with heart.
  • Promoted positivity and education in urban settings.

Fred Flintstone – The Original Prehistoric Everyman

Fred Flintstone** was the ultimate sitcom dad before Homer. While not always portrayed as excessively fat, his broad figure, booming voice, and appetite for brontosaurus ribs earn him a spot among classic fat cartoon character names.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Symbol of early TV animation.
  • Blends working-class charm with Stone Age silliness.

Patrick Star – Bikini Bottom’s Lovable Doofus

Patrick Star** from SpongeBob SquarePants is the pink, round starfish who represents all things slow and silly. His belly wobbles and his logic crumbles, but he’s one of the most adored characters under the sea.

Why He Stands Out:

  • His cluelessness is part of his charm.
  • Catchphrases and ridiculous antics make him unforgettable.

Cleveland Brown – The Laid-Back Neighbor

Originally from Family Guy and later starring in The Cleveland Show, Cleveland Brown** has a soft-spoken demeanor and a gentle approach to life. His round frame and calm voice set him apart from other over-the-top characters.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Rare example of a plus-size Black cartoon lead.
  • Underrated humor with strong family values.

Pumbaa – Flatulence and Friendship

Pumbaa, the lovable warthog from The Lion King, is chubby, proud of it, and never lets it interfere with friendship. Voiced by Ernie Sabella, Pumbaa gives emotional depth to a character that could have been purely comic relief.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Famous for the song “Hakuna Matata.”
  • Shows kindness, loyalty, and vulnerability.

Chef – Smooth Voice, Big Heart

Chef from South Park is more than just a school cafeteria worker. With a voice originally performed by Isaac Hayes, Chef brought soul, warmth, and unfiltered advice to a chaotic world.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Rare mature character on a show of kids.
  • Signature baritone and songs made him iconic.

Carl Wheezer – The Whiny Yet Adorable Sidekick

From Jimmy Neutron, Carl Wheezer** is the overweight, allergy-prone, llama-loving best friend. He’s awkward and annoying, but endearing in his vulnerability.

Why He Stands Out:

  • A meme icon in Gen Z internet culture.
  • Known for his nasal voice and one-liners.

Muriel Bagge – The Soft-Hearted Grandmother

From Courage the Cowardly Dog, Muriel Bagge** may not be obese, but she’s often portrayed as plump and cuddly—fitting the trope of a nurturing, older cartoon lady.

Why She Stands Out:

  • Represents kindness in a surreal world.
  • Her warmth anchors the show’s spooky tone.

Ursula – Sea Witch with Style

Ursula, the villain from The Little Mermaid, is bold, boisterous, and undeniably plus-sized. Based loosely on drag queen Divine, she combines power, vanity, and charisma like no one else.

Why She Stands Out:

  • One of Disney’s most iconic villains.
  • Her design and voice are unforgettable.

Uncle Ruckus – Offensive but Complex

From The Boondocks, Uncle Ruckus is overweight and deeply controversial. As a self-hating Black man, he represents internalized racism in an exaggerated, satirical light.

Why He Stands Out:

  • Social commentary through grotesque exaggeration.
  • Voice and expressions are disturbingly memorable.

Why Fat Cartoon Character Names Matter

These fat cartoon character names aren’t just about body shape—they’re about character depth, humor, and emotional impact. They’ve been funny, villainous, friendly, or heroic. Above all, they’ve been relatable.

From Garfield’s sass to Totoro’s tenderness, their size is part of their story—not the whole story. And that’s what makes them so timeless.

If you're exploring fat cartoon character names for inspiration, nostalgia, or just a good laugh, these are the names that should top your list.