Top 10 Oldest Cartoon Characters We'll Always Treasure in 2025

1. Felix the Cat (Debut: 1919)

Felix the Cat holds the distinction of being one of the first animated characters to achieve widespread popularity. His bag of tricks and mischievous personality made him a favorite during the silent film era.

Felix’s design is deceptively simple, yet his expressive movements convey a wealth of emotion. Though less prominent today, Felix’s legacy endures as a pioneer of early animation..

2. Mickey Mouse (Debut: 1928)

The icon of all icons—Mickey Mouse. Created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, Mickey debuted in the black-and-white short Steamboat Willie. Over the decades, he evolved from a mischievous troublemaker into the affable mascot of the Walt Disney Company.

Why does Mickey remain timeless? It’s his adaptability. Whether solving mysteries in Mickey Mouse Clubhouse or appearing in video games like Kingdom Hearts, Mickey resonates with audiences of all ages. Plus, who can resist that cheerful voice and endearing personality?

Personal Note: Growing up, I remember watching Mickey on Saturday mornings, cereal bowl in hand, laughing at his antics. Even today, hearing his signature laugh brings a rush of nostalgia.

3. Popeye the Sailor Man (Debut: 1929)

"Toot toot!" Who doesn’t recognize Popeye's distinctive whistle? Debuting in Thimble Theatre comic strips before transitioning to animation, Popeye became a symbol of strength (thanks to spinach, of course!) and determination.

Popeye’s ability to tackle any challenge with humor and grit resonates even today. His enduring rivalry with Bluto and his romance with Olive Oyl make his stories relatable, no matter the era.

4. Betty Boop (Debut: 1930)

Betty Boop, with her flirtatious charm and jazz-age flair, was a groundbreaking character when she appeared in the 1930s. Created by Max Fleischer, Betty was the epitome of a free-spirited flapper and one of the first cartoon characters to have a distinctly adult appeal.

Though her original cartoons may seem quaint by today’s standards, Betty’s influence on animation and fashion remains profound. Her iconic style—complete with a little black dress and a bob haircut—still inspires pop culture and fashion.

5. Donald Duck (Debut: 1934)

Donald Duck, with his sailor outfit and short temper, is one of Disney’s most beloved characters. First appearing in The Wise Little Hen, Donald quickly became a fan favorite, often stealing the spotlight from Mickey himself.

What makes Donald so relatable? It’s his imperfections. His fiery temper and clumsy mishaps mirror the frustrations we all feel, making him a comforting, if slightly chaotic, presence.

Real-World Example: Disney parks still feature Donald prominently, and it’s not uncommon to see fans donning his iconic blue sailor hat. He may lose his cool, but he’s won millions of hearts.

6. Daffy Duck (Debut: 1937)

Bugs Bunny’s foil, Daffy Duck, is equally iconic. Daffy’s exaggerated ego, combined with his knack for landing in ridiculous predicaments, makes him an unforgettable character.

Daffy’s personality is a reflection of human flaws, from envy to ambition, which makes him endearing. Over the years, his rivalry with Bugs has provided some of the most memorable moments in cartoon history.

Also Read: Top 10 Best Animation Artists Who Revolutionized The Animation Industry

7. Tom and Jerry (Debut: 1940)

Although technically a duo, Tom and Jerry deserve a shared spot on this list. Created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, this cat-and-mouse pair has been delivering slapstick hilarity for over 80 years.

What’s fascinating about Tom and Jerry is their universal appeal. With minimal dialogue, their antics transcend language barriers, making them beloved across the globe. From their early shorts to modern reboots, the duo's dynamic remains unmatched.

8. Bugs Bunny (Debut: 1940)

"Eh, what’s up, doc?" Bugs Bunny, with his quick wit and mischievous nature, is the face of the Looney Tunes franchise. Created by Tex Avery and Bob Clampett, Bugs has outsmarted countless adversaries, from Elmer Fudd to Yosemite Sam.

Bugs’s genius lies in his relatability. Who hasn’t wanted to outwit their troubles with cleverness and charm? His versatility as a character—whether he's a trickster, hero, or performer—keeps him relevant.

9. Woody Woodpecker (Debut: 1940)

With his signature laugh and mischievous antics, Woody Woodpecker is another unforgettable character from the Golden Age of Animation. Created by Walter Lantz, Woody’s stories often involve him outsmarting adversaries with his cleverness.

Woody’s appeal lies in his rebellious nature, making him a symbol of playful defiance. Even in 2025, his laugh is instantly recognizable, a testament to his lasting popularity.

10. Scooby-Doo (Debut: 1969)

Though Scooby-Doo is a relatively “younger” character on this list, his cultural impact is undeniable. Alongside the Mystery Inc. gang, Scooby has been solving mysteries for over five decades, teaching generations about friendship, bravery, and (occasionally) the importance of snacks.

Scooby’s longevity can be attributed to his heartwarming dynamic with Shaggy and the timeless appeal of mystery-solving adventures. Whether in classic reruns or modern adaptations, Scooby remains a beloved character.

Why These Characters Matter in 2025

But these cartoon characters are important in 2025 because they speak to a sense of continuity and connectedness to common historical experiences in a world that is changing so quickly. However, facing the development of technology and the change in entertainment preferences, characters including Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny remind us that the charm of storytelling remains inescapable. The longevity of their appeal cements their universal appeal, supplying humor, lessons, and relatability across cultural and linguistic barriers.

Most of these characters are also what founded the animation industry. They led the way in how to connect and understand the audience through storytelling, character development, and visual artistry today. It could be the continuance story around the slapstick comedy of Tom and Jerry, or the crafty and witty Bug Bunny, but a great story works for both kids and grown-ups because a great story stays afloat in time.

But they also invoke nostalgia, that strong emotion that produces a sense of comfort and happiness. In the context of modern challenges, reimmersing ourselves in a familiar, beloved character's tenet, might remind us of an old friend just to help us find stability and joy. In a world full of exciting and new content, these classic icons are just a reminder for us all that the beauty of simplicity, and the strength of well-crafted characters, will last forever.

Final Thoughts

The oldest cartoon characters hold a unique place in our hearts, blending nostalgia with timeless lessons. They remind us of the enduring power of storytelling and the magic of animation. Who knows? Maybe these characters will continue to inspire new generations well beyond 2025.

Which of these characters is your favorite? Or do you have a memory tied to one of them? Share your thoughts—because if there’s one thing these icons teach us, it’s that joy is better when shared.