Cartoons have always been a medium to explore fantastical worlds, quirky characters, and epic adventures. But hidden within the animated realm lies a dark and intriguing subculture – the realm of gangsters.
These animated ne’er-do-wells bring their unique blend of charisma, cunning, and chaos to the screen, captivating audiences with their fearless demeanor and larger-than-life personas.
In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating world of animation to bring you the 22 most badass gangster cartoon characters.
From cunning mob bosses to street-smart hustlers, this list is a celebration of the edgiest, most captivating characters to have ever graced our screens.
So buckle up, get ready to meet these animated antiheroes, and prepare to be enthralled by their unyielding audacity and undeniable swagger.
Also checkout our post of 20 best dragon cartoon characters.
22. Black Jack Shellac
From: Mighty Mouse
Black Jack Shellac, the notorious gangster from the world of Mighty Mouse, commands both fear and respect in equal measure.
With his signature pinstripe suit, fedora, and a menacing smirk permanently etched on his face, Black Jack exudes an air of unapologetic confidence.
Armed with his trusty tommy gun and surrounded by a loyal band of henchmen, he rules over his criminal empire with an iron fist.
Black Jack’s cunning wit and strategic mind make him a force to be reckoned with, always one step ahead of his adversaries.
His ruthlessness and disregard for the law have earned him a reputation as one of the most fearsome gangsters in cartoon history.
21. Ma Beagle
From: DuckTales
Meet Ma Beagle, the matriarch of the infamous Beagle Boys gang in the world of DuckTales.
With her sharp wit and a mischievous glint in her eye, Ma Beagle is the mastermind behind countless heists and schemes.
Dressed in her trademark purple dress and a cooking apron, she effortlessly balances her roles as a criminal mastermind and a loving mother to her rambunctious brood of Beagle Boys.
Ma Beagle’s cunning and resourcefulness make her a formidable adversary to Scrooge McDuck and his nephews.
Her unwavering determination and knack for getting out of tight spots have solidified her status as one of the most badass and beloved gangster cartoon characters of all time.
20. Ratigan
From: The Great Mouse Detective
Enter Ratigan, the conniving and diabolical mastermind from the animated world of The Great Mouse Detective.
With his sleek gray fur, sharp features, and an air of aristocratic charm, Ratigan is the epitome of a sophisticated yet ruthless criminal.
Donning a dapper suit and a menacing smirk, he effortlessly manipulates those around him to fulfill his wicked ambitions.
As the arch-nemesis of the brilliant detective Basil of Baker Street, Ratigan’s intelligence and cunning are unparalleled.
Whether orchestrating elaborate schemes or engaging in intense cat-and-mouse chases, Ratigan’s larger-than-life presence and unwavering determination cement his place among the most captivating and badass gangster cartoon characters ever created.
19. Madame Medusa
From: The Rescuers
Meet Madame Medusa, the chillingly wicked antagonist from the animated film The Rescuers.
With her emaciated figure, wild red hair, and piercing green eyes, Madame Medusa exudes an aura of pure malevolence.
Clad in her tattered leopard-print dress and adorned with flashy jewelry, she is a symbol of greed and cunning.
Obsessed with obtaining the legendary diamond known as the Devil’s Eye, Medusa stops at nothing to achieve her goals, even if it means exploiting innocent creatures.
Her manipulative nature and ruthlessness make her a truly formidable foe, leaving audiences in awe of her villainous presence and cementing her status as one of the most badass gangster cartoon characters to grace the screen.
18. The Gangster Ghost
From: Casper the Friendly Ghost
Introducing the Gangster Ghost, a gangster character from the world of Casper the Friendly Ghost.
This spectral figure, adorned in a pinstripe suit and fedora, possesses a mysterious allure that sets him apart.
With his otherworldly charm and a mischievous glimmer in his eyes, the Gangster Ghost seamlessly blends the eerie with the charismatic.
He navigates the realms of the living and the afterlife, using his supernatural abilities to create havoc and mayhem.
Though initially seen as a foe, his complex nature often reveals a soft spot or unexpected acts of kindness, adding depth to his character.
The Gangster Ghost remains an enigmatic and unforgettable presence in the world of animated gangsters.
17. Rat Capone
From: Chip ‘n’ Dale Rescue Rangers
Meet Rat Capone, the cunning and charismatic mobster from the animated series Chip ‘n’ Dale Rescue Rangers.
With his snappy attire, complete with a sharp pinstripe suit and a fedora tilted just right, Rat Capone oozes an undeniable charm.
Leading his gang of fellow rodent henchmen, he schemes and plots to achieve his grandiose criminal ambitions.
Despite his diminutive size, Rat Capone exudes an air of authority and commands respect in the underworld.
His quick wit, smooth talk, and shrewd business acumen make him a formidable adversary to the Rescue Rangers.
Rat Capone’s larger-than-life persona and unwavering determination solidify his position as one of the most captivating and badass gangster cartoon characters of all time.
16. Cat R. Waul
From: An American Tail: Fievel Goes West
Introducing Cat R. Waul, the suave and sly feline antagonist from the animated film An American Tail: Fievel Goes West.
With his polished demeanor and sophisticated accent, Cat R. Waul exudes an air of refined villainy.
Dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, complete with a top hat and a gold-tipped cane, he embodies the epitome of a charming yet ruthless gangster.
Using his charisma and cunning, Waul manipulates those around him to further his own wicked schemes.
Whether plotting to exploit the innocent mice or engaging in high-stakes showdowns, Cat R. Waul’s calculated demeanor and unrelenting pursuit of power establish him as one of the most captivating and formidable gangster cartoon characters ever created.
15. Carmen Sandiego
From: Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego?
Introducing Carmen Sandiego, the enigmatic and elusive master thief from the animated series “Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego?”
With her striking red trench coat, a wide-brimmed hat, and mischievous smile, Carmen is the embodiment of intrigue and adventure.
As the leader of V.I.L.E. (Villains’ International League of Evil), she orchestrates daring heists around the globe, leaving behind only cryptic clues.
Carmen’s intellect, resourcefulness, and mastery of disguises make her an unparalleled force in the world of crime.
Yet, despite her criminal pursuits, Carmen operates by a moral code, stealing from other thieves to protect the world’s treasures.
With her enigmatic allure and a touch of altruism, Carmen Sandiego is undeniably one of the most captivating and badass gangster cartoon characters ever conceived.
14. The Gangreen Gang
From: The Powerpuff Girls
Meet The Gangreen Gang, the rowdy and mischievous gang of troublemakers from the animated series The Powerpuff Girls.
Comprising Ace, Snake, Grubber, and Big Billy, this motley crew brings chaos and mayhem to the peaceful city of Townsville.
With their eccentric appearances, distinctive personalities, and street-smart attitudes, The Gangreen Gang exudes a unique blend of villainy and comic relief.
Constantly hatching schemes and causing mischief, they serve as foils to the valiant Powerpuff Girls.
While their intentions may be misguided, their camaraderie and unapologetic rebelliousness make them both lovable and undeniably badass gangster cartoon characters that leave an unforgettable mark on the series.
13. Nasty Canasta
From: Looney Tunes
Enter Nasty Canasta, the ruthless and intimidating outlaw from the world of Looney Tunes.
With his hulking stature, menacing mustache, and eye patch that only adds to his aura of danger, Nasty Canasta strikes fear into the hearts of both characters and audiences alike.
Clad in a signature black hat and vest, he exudes an air of undeniable villainy. Whether engaging in high-stakes poker games or attempting to outwit his adversaries, Nasty Canasta showcases the cunning and ruthlessness that made him a force to be reckoned with.
His deep, booming voice and no-nonsense demeanor firmly establish him as one of the most memorable and badass gangster cartoon characters in the Looney Tunes universe.
12. Wario
From: Super Mario Bros. series
Enter Wario, the brash and greedy anti-hero from the Super Mario Bros. series. With his signature yellow-and-purple attire, wild mustache, and perpetual scowl on his face, Wario exudes a unique blend of charm and mischief.
Driven by his insatiable desire for wealth and power, he will stop at nothing to get his hands on treasure and outshine his rival, Mario.
With his incredible strength and relentless determination, Wario poses a formidable challenge to anyone who stands in his way.
Despite his villainous tendencies, his larger-than-life personality and unwavering self-confidence make him a beloved and undeniably badass gangster cartoon character in the Super Mario universe.
11. Tony “The Ant”
From: Hey Arnold!
Meet Tony “The Ant,” the pint-sized yet fearless gangster from the animated series Hey Arnold! With his slicked-back hair, sharp suit, and an undeniable air of confidence, Tony commands respect within the bustling city streets.
Despite his small stature, he possesses an intimidating presence that belies his size. Tony “The Ant” is a master of negotiation and the go-to guy for the neighborhood kids when they need a favor.
While operating within the realm of questionable legality, his loyalty and sense of honor make him a complex character.
Tony’s unwavering determination, street smarts, and undeniable charisma establish him as one of the most captivating and badass gangster cartoon characters to roam the streets of Hillwood.
10. Kingpin
From: Spider-Man: The Animated Series
Enter Kingpin, the formidable and influential crime lord from the animated series Spider-Man.
With his imposing figure, bald head, and tailored white suit, Kingpin exudes an air of power and control.
He is a mastermind in the criminal underworld, pulling the strings behind the scenes while maintaining a facade of legitimacy.
Kingpin’s immense physical strength and intelligence make him a formidable adversary for the web-slinging hero.
His ruthless determination to maintain his grip on power and expand his criminal empire solidifies his status as one of the most notorious and badass gangster cartoon characters ever to grace the screen.
9. Scarface
From: Batman: The Animated Series
Introducing Scarface, the puppet mastermind and ruthless gangster from the animated series Batman: The Animated Series.
Scarface, a wooden ventriloquist dummy, is brought to life by the cunning and twisted mind of his human counterpart, Arnold Wesker.
Clad in a pinstripe suit and brandishing a menacing Tommy gun, Scarface commands respect and fear within Gotham’s criminal underworld.
With a gravelly voice and an unwavering determination to dominate the city’s criminal activities, Scarface pulls the strings while Arnold takes a backseat.
Together, they create a formidable and chilling duo, challenging Batman’s resolve and showcasing Scarface’s status as one of the most unique and badass gangster cartoon characters ever created.
8. The Rat King
From: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Enter The Rat King, the enigmatic and eerie antagonist from the animated series Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
With his tattered robes, wild hair, and an uncanny connection to rats, The Rat King strikes fear into the hearts of both the turtles and the citizens of New York City.
Utilizing his telepathic abilities and a horde of loyal rodent minions, he schemes to take control of the city above ground.
The Rat King’s mysterious nature and ability to manipulate his furry companions make him a formidable foe.
His unwavering determination and unsettling presence establish him as one of the most memorable and badass gangster cartoon characters to roam the sewers and shadows of the TMNT universe.
7. Don Weaso
From: Bonkers
Enter Don Weaso, the slick and cunning weasel from the animated series Bonkers. With his sharp fedora, tailored suit, and toothy grin, Don Weaso is the epitome of a classic gangster.
Operating as the head of the Toon Mafia, he navigates the chaotic world of Toontown with a mix of charm and menace.
Don Weaso’s clever schemes and resourcefulness make him a formidable foe for Bonkers D. Bobcat and Lucky Piquel.
Whether hatching elaborate plans or engaging in high-stakes showdowns, Don Weaso’s unyielding determination and sly wit solidify his status as one of the most captivating and badass gangster cartoon characters to grace the screen.
6. Mr. Big
From: Zootopia
Introducing Mr. Big, the fearsome and influential crime boss from the animated film Zootopia.
Despite his diminutive size, Mr. Big commands respect and instills fear in the bustling city of Zootopia.
Dressed in an elegant tuxedo and accompanied by his loyal henchmen, he exudes an air of authority and power.
Operating from his Arctic shrew stronghold, Mr. Big orchestrates illegal activities with precision and secrecy.
His cold demeanor and ruthless nature make him a force to be reckoned with. Though small in stature, Mr. Big’s influence looms large, establishing him as one of the most memorable and badass gangster cartoon characters in the animal kingdom of Zootopia.
5. Babyface Finster
From: Tiny Toon Adventures
Meet Babyface Finster, the pint-sized gangster with a big attitude from the animated series Tiny Toon Adventures.
With his signature oversized suit, fedora, and a pacifier perpetually hanging from his mouth, Babyface exudes a unique blend of cuteness and menace.
Despite his baby-like appearance, he is a cunning and ruthless leader of the Li’l Sneezer Gang.
Babyface orchestrates heists, schemes, and pranks with the determination of a seasoned mobster.
Whether plotting to take over Acme Acres or going head-to-head with the Tiny Toons, Babyface Finster’s combination of adorable charm and unabashed villainy firmly establishes him as one of the most memorable and badass gangster cartoon characters in the Tiny Toon Adventures universe.
4. Don Karnage
From: TaleSpin
Enter Don Karnage, the flamboyant and swashbuckling pirate airship captain from the animated series TaleSpin.
With his stylish attire, feathered hat, and devilish grin, Karnage is a captivating and charismatic figure.
Leading his band of bumbling pirates known as the Air Pirates, he seeks to plunder and rule the skies of Cape Suzette.
Don Karnage’s charm, combined with his sharp wit and daring aerial maneuvers, make him a formidable adversary for Baloo and the crew of the Sea Duck.
Whether engaging in high-flying battles or plotting grand heists, Don Karnage’s larger-than-life personality solidifies him as one of the most memorable and badass gangster cartoon characters in the world of TaleSpin.
3. The Godpigeon
From: Animaniacs
Introducing The Godpigeon, the feathered and wise-cracking mob boss from the animated series Animaniacs.
With his distinctive New York accent and a knack for witty one-liners, The Godpigeon exudes an air of authority and street smarts.
Sporting a tailored suit and a cigar in his beak, he commands the respect of the avian underworld. Despite his comical demeanor, The Godpigeon is not to be underestimated.
He seamlessly navigates the fine line between comedy and menace, providing a memorable presence in the zany world of Animaniacs.
With his quick wit and undeniable charm, The Godpigeon stands tall as one of the most hilariously badass gangster cartoon characters to grace the screen.
2. Rocky and Mugsy
From: Looney Tunes
Meet Rocky and Mugsy, the bumbling and relentless duo from the animated series Looney Tunes. With Rocky as the brains and Mugsy as the brawn, they form an unlikely criminal partnership.
Rocky, a smooth-talking gangster with a Brooklyn accent, often leads the pair into misadventures, while Mugsy, a hulking and dim-witted enforcer, is always ready to follow his orders.
Despite their constant failures, they never give up and continuously plot to outsmart their nemesis, Bugs Bunny. Their comical banter, slapstick humor, and unwavering loyalty to each other make Rocky and Mugsy an unforgettable and beloved gangster duo in the Looney Tunes universe.
1. Fat Tony
From: The Simpsons
Enter Fat Tony, the charismatic and cunning mob boss from the animated series The Simpsons. With his trademark fedora, sharp suit, and distinctive voice, Fat Tony exudes an air of authority and sophistication.
Leading the Springfield Mafia, he navigates the world of organized crime with shrewdness and a touch of humor. Despite his criminal activities, Fat Tony is often portrayed as a complex character, showing moments of kindness and loyalty to his associates.
With his quick wit and strategic mind, he is a formidable adversary for anyone who crosses his path. Fat Tony’s memorable presence and larger-than-life personality firmly establish him as one of the most iconic and badass gangster cartoon characters in The Simpsons universe.
