Animation Nation: The Most Popular Kids' Cartoon Characters of 2025
Hey there, cartoon connoisseurs and parents on the pulse! We're halfway through 2025, and what a whirlwind year it's already been for the vibrant world of children's animation! From big-screen blockbusters to binge-worthy series, our screens have been lit up with a dazzling array of characters, both brand new and belovedly familiar. The animation landscape is buzzing, a dynamic field where fresh ideas meet cherished legacies, keeping us all glued to our seats. This mid-year report is your ultimate guide to the characters who are not just entertaining our little ones but are also shaping playground conversations and bedroom décor. So, grab a juice box, settle in, and let's dive into the most significant and popular kids' cartoon characters making waves in 2025!
2025's Mid-Year Cartoon Hotlist: New & Noteworthy Characters
To kick things off, here's a quick peek at some of the brightest stars lighting up the animation universe this year. These are the names and faces you'll be hearing a lot about!
Character(s) Name | Show/Movie Title | Type | Where to Watch | Why They're a Hit! |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dog Man & Li'l Petey | Dog Man | Movie | Theaters/Universal | Hilarious book heroes unleashed on the big screen! |
Elio Solis | Elio | Movie | Theaters/Disney Pixar | Kid ambassador to the stars, an intergalactic goofball! |
Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde | Zootopia 2 | Movie | Theaters/Disney | Beloved duo back to solve wild new mysteries! |
Mr. Wolf & The Bad Guys (plus The Bad Girls!) | The Bad Guys 2 | Movie | Theaters/DreamWorks | Reformed villains (mostly!) face a new crafty crew! |
Pavi & Nisha | Avatar: Seven Havens | Series | Nickelodeon | New Avatars in a dramatically changed, broken world! |
Roz (Rozzum 7134) | The Wild Robot | Movie | Theaters/DreamWorks | A robot's journey of discovery and unlikely motherhood! |
Rumi, Mira & Zoey | K-Pop: Demon Hunters | Movie | Netflix | Pop superstars by day, demon slayers by night! |
Bluey | Bluey | Series | Disney+ | Enduring charm, teaching life lessons with giggles! |
The RoboGobo Team | RoboGobo | Series | Disney Jr. | Rescue pets in super-suits saving the day! |
Ariel | Disney Jr.'s Ariel | Series | Disney Jr./Disney+ | Young mermaid adventures in a vibrant Atlantica! |
The SuperKitties | SuperKitties | Series | Disney Junior | Feline heroes making the world more "pawesome"! |
Pliny & the StuGo Crew | StuGo | Series | Disney Channel/Disney+ | Genius kids on a wild, unexpected island adventure! |
The Reigning Champs & Beloved Comebacks Stealing the Show
This year isn't just about fresh faces; it's also a celebration of characters and stories that have already carved a special place in our hearts. The power of existing intellectual property is undeniable, as familiar worlds and characters return, often evolving in exciting new ways that build on audience anticipation for these sequels and new installments.
First up, bounding from the pages of Dav Pilkey’s beloved book series, is Dog Man, who, alongside his adorable sidekick Li'l Petey, finally made his big-screen debut on January 31, 2025. Dog Man, the crime-fighting hero who is part-dog, part-human, is voiced (or rather, emoted, since he doesn't speak!) by Peter Hastings, who also directs. The film captures the chaotic, laugh-out-loud energy of the books, with Dog Man's archenemy, the "world's most evilest cat" Petey (voiced by Pete Davidson), and the heartwarming presence of Li'l Petey (Lucas Hopkins Calderon). The story explores Dog Man's creation, his battles with Petey, and his adoption of Li'l Petey, creating a narrative rich with humor and heart. This transition from a popular book series to a feature film highlights how established literary heroes can find new life and reach even wider audiences through animation, bringing their unique blend of physical comedy and heroism to a new generation.
Then, get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure with Pixar’s Elio, which premiered on June 20, 2025. The film introduces us to Elio Solis, an imaginative 11-year-old boy (voiced by Yonas Kibreab) who accidentally becomes Earth's ambassador to the Communiverse, a sort of United Nations for alien species.5 Elio, who struggles to fit in and whose biggest wish is to be abducted by aliens, must navigate this intergalactic responsibility alongside his Aunt Olga (Zoe Saldaña) and his new alien friend Glordon.This film taps into that classic childhood fantasy of adventure and discovery, promising Pixar's signature blend of stunning visuals and emotional depth. Elio's journey is one of finding where he belongs, a universally relatable theme wrapped in a cosmic package.6
The animal metropolis is buzzing again with the highly anticipated Zootopia 2, set to hit theaters on November 26, 2025. Officers Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) are back, and their partnership will be tested as they investigate a mysterious new figure. This sequel expands the vibrant world of Zootopia, introducing new locations like the Marsh Market, populated by aquatic creatures, and new characters like the "shady" Gary De'Snake (voiced by Ke Huy Quan) and the quokka therapist Dr. Fuzzby (Quinta Brunson). The return of this dynamic duo, now navigating an even bigger and more complex city, demonstrates the lasting appeal of well-crafted characters and the worlds they inhabit. Audiences are eager to see how Judy and Nick's friendship and professional partnership evolve with these new challenges.
And for those who like their heroes a little on the mischievous side, The Bad Guys 2 roared into theaters on August 1, 2025. Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), and the rest of the now-reformed (mostly!) crew find themselves lured back into a life of crime by a formidable new all-female group of criminals known as "The Bad Girls". This new trio includes the dangerously clever snow leopard Kitty Kat (Danielle Brooks), the raven Doom (Natasha Lyonne), and the brilliant wild boar engineer Pigtail (Maria Bakalova).10 The sequel promises more of the stylish animation and witty banter that made the first film a hit, exploring the complexities of redemption and the allure of "one last job". The introduction of The Bad Girls adds a fresh dynamic, challenging the original team and expanding the film's universe in an exciting way.
What Makes a Character a "Hit" in 2025? The Secret Sauce of Toon Stardom!
Ever wonder what makes a particular cartoon character leap off the screen and into the hearts (and toy boxes) of millions? It's rarely just one thing. The most significant and popular characters often represent a "whole package" of appealing traits. They might be funny AND brave, or relatable AND have cool adventures, broadening their reach and making them more dynamic and engaging.
Relatability and Emotional Connection: Kids connect with characters who mirror their own experiences, feelings, and challenges, even if those characters are blue heeler puppies or crime-fighting part-dog-part-policemen. Bluey, the Australian blue heeler, continues her reign as a global phenomenon precisely because of this. The show masterfully portrays family dynamics, imaginative play, and simple life lessons from a child's perspective, making Bluey and her family incredibly relatable. Similarly, the upcoming RoboGobo features Dax, a young inventor with a limb difference, showcasing that heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and abilities, a powerful message of inclusivity.15 This resonates deeply, as children see parts of themselves or their world reflected on screen.
Educational and Empowering Themes: While entertainment is key, many popular cartoons cleverly weave in educational content. Bluey is praised for teaching problem-solving and the value of imaginative play. Shows like Ask the StoryBots focus on harnessing curiosity and improving vocabulary. Disney Jr.'s Ariel, a prequel series launched in late June 2024, explores themes of friendship, understanding, and patience through the adventures of an 8-year-old Ariel in a Caribbean-inspired Atlantica. The series, praised for its vibrant animation and catchy music, also subtly educates through Ariel's discoveries.18 The new Disney Jr. show RoboGobo, which premiered January 17, 2025, teaches the value of teamwork, creative thinking, and empathy, as rescue pets in super-powered robotic suits solve problems.7 These shows demonstrate that learning and fun can go hand-in-hand.
Strong Visual Identity and Unique Abilities: A character's look is their calling card. Miraculous Ladybug (Marinette Dupain-Cheng) boasts a dynamic, empowered design that appeals to both boys and girls, making her instantly recognizable and a branding powerhouse.14 The "StuGo" crew, six genius middle schoolers tricked into a fake summer camp on a wild tropical island, feature a distinct animation style that complements their quirky, adventurous story, which premiered January 11, 2025. Unique powers or skills also captivate young audiences. The SuperKitties (Bitsy, Ginny, Sparks, and Buddy) combine the universal appeal of cats with superheroics, using their feline abilities to make their world "kinder and more pawesome". Their distinct looks and heroic missions contribute to their popularity, which has been recognized with Emmy nominations.22
Humor, Bravery, and Teamwork: Laughter is a universal language, and characters who can tickle the funny bone often become fast favorites. The antics of Dog Man are a prime example of physical comedy gold. Bravery in the face of adversity and the power of teamwork are also recurring themes. Paw Patrol’s enduring success is built on its heroic puppies like Chase and Skye, who exemplify bravery and teamwork in every rescue mission.
The "stickiness" of characters is further amplified by modern media consumption habits. Easy rewatchability on streaming platforms, viral moments on social media (think Baby Shark's global takeover ), and a universe of merchandise create a powerful feedback loop. Characters like Ladybug thrive in this ecosystem, with a strong presence in "merchandise, books, and social media," cementing their popularity beyond just screen time. This interconnected world ensures that today's favorite characters are more accessible and pervasive than ever before.
Faces to Watch: The New Characters Defining Kids' Entertainment in 2025
Beyond the established names, 2025 is introducing some truly groundbreaking characters poised to leave a lasting mark. These newcomers aren't just entertaining; they're pushing boundaries and reflecting the complexities of the world around us. Their stories may subtly mirror contemporary societal themes, making them particularly resonant.
One of the most talked-about new protagonists is Pavi from Nickelodeon's Avatar: Seven Havens, which debuted in 2025. Set in a world shattered by a cataclysm reportedly caused by the previous Avatar, Korra, Pavi is a young Earthbender who discovers she's the new Avatar. However, in this dangerous new era, being the Avatar marks her as humanity's destroyer, not its savior. Hunted by human and spirit enemies, Pavi, who has lost a leg and lives on the streets with her animal companion Geet, must uncover her mysterious origins alongside her long-lost twin sister, Nisha. Nisha, in contrast, has lived a more sheltered life under the watch of the White Lotus society. This narrative offers a significant shift, presenting a protagonist who is an outcast hero in a fractured world, potentially echoing real-world anxieties about instability and the search for hope in challenging times. Pavi's journey, and her complex relationship with her twin (who is also rumored to be an Avatar), promises a deeper exploration of what it means to be a savior when the world sees you as a threat.25 Given the Avatar franchise's proven longevity and ability to tackle mature themes , Pavi has strong potential to become an iconic figure for this generation.
Then there's Rozzum 7134, or Roz, the central figure in DreamWorks Animation's The Wild Robot, which arrived in theaters in September 2024 but is making a huge impact throughout 2025. Voiced by Lupita Nyong'o, Roz is a sophisticated robot who washes up on an uninhabited island and must learn to survive by observing and adapting to the animal inhabitants. Her journey takes a pivotal turn when she becomes the adoptive mother to an orphaned gosling named Brightbill (Kit Connor). Roz's evolution from a purely mechanical being to a creature capable of empathy and love is a unique and poignant exploration of connection, adaptation, and the very definition of family. Her story, set against the backdrop of the natural world, could tap into a growing environmental consciousness among young audiences. Roz's non-human perspective offers a fresh lens through which to explore themes of motherhood and belonging, making her a truly innovative protagonist.
Finally, lighting up Netflix from June 20, 2025, are the heroines of K-Pop: Demon Hunters.30 The film follows a superstar K-pop girl group – Rumi (Arden Cho), Mira (May Hong), and Zoey (Ji-young Yoo) – who lead double lives as demon slayers, protecting their fans from supernatural threats. When a rival boy band, who are actually demons in disguise, threatens their fans, the girls must fight back. Characters like Rumi embody the fusion of global pop culture phenomena with action-packed animation. This film speaks to themes of cultural identity, teamwork, and female empowerment, all wrapped in a stylish, music-driven package featuring original songs from top K-pop producers. Rumi's dual identity as a pop idol and a demon hunter might particularly resonate with young people navigating multiple roles and expectations in their own lives. If successful, K-Pop: Demon Hunters has the potential to become a new franchise anchor, with its vibrant world and dynamic characters ripe for further adventures.
These characters, each unique in their own right, showcase the exciting directions children's animation is heading, offering more complex narratives and diverse representations that can inspire and engage a new generation.
The Tooniverse Keeps Expanding: What Else to Look Forward To!
As we've seen, 2025 is already shaping up to be a banner year for kids' animation, offering a fantastic blend of eagerly awaited sequels and thrilling new series and films. The sheer volume of quality content means the landscape is constantly evolving; what's captivating audiences mid-year might soon be joined by even more new favorites by December!
Looking ahead, the excitement doesn't stop. Get ready for the return of some tiny blue friends in The Smurfs Movie, slated for July 18, 2025. Bikini Bottom fans can rejoice as The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants is set to make a splash on December 19, 2025. Marvel enthusiasts have a lot to look forward to as well, with Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man swinging onto Disney+ (premiered January 29, 2025) and the much-anticipated Marvel Zombies series hitting the platform on October 31, 2025.
And that's just scratching the surface! Disney Jr. continues to roll out new adventures with shows like Hey A.J. and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+. Nickelodeon is also bringing fresh content with Wylde Pak and HexVets & Magic Pets. Netflix is a hotbed of new animation, with titles like Astérix and Obélix: The Big Fight (premiered April 30, 2025), In Your Dreams (November 14, 2025), and many more series like Wolf King, 7 Bears, and a Winx Club revival on the horizon.
The world of cartoons is more vibrant, diverse, and imaginative than ever before. From heartwarming tales of friendship and family to action-packed adventures that span galaxies, there's truly something for every young viewer. The characters we've highlighted today are already making a significant impact, but the year is far from over.
Who will be your family's favorite new character by the end of 2025? Keep watching to find out!
We'd love to hear from you! Share your family's favorite 2025 cartoon characters and why you love them in the comments below!
Works cited
- List of animated feature films of 2025 - Wikipedia, accessed June 11, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_animated_feature_films_of_2025
- Elio — Pixar Animation Studios, accessed June 11, 2025, https://www.pixar.com/elio
- 2025 in animation - Wikipedia, accessed June 11, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_in_animation