Representation matters, especially in the world of animation. For far too long, the characters we saw on our screens were predominantly white and male, leaving out a significant portion of the population.

However, black female cartoon characters have been breaking through this mold for decades, providing much-needed representation and inspiring generations of young girls of color.

From superheroes to everyday heroes, these characters have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their strength, intelligence, and unwavering spirit.

In this blog post, we will be celebrating 33 black female cartoon characters who have made their mark on the animation industry.

33. Diana 

From: Dungeon and Dragons

Diana, the Acrobat, is a black female cartoon character from the 1980s animated television series, Dungeons & Dragons.

As one of the main characters in the show, Diana is depicted as a strong and athletic young woman with a fierce determination to protect her friends.

With her acrobatic skills and agility, she serves as a valuable member of the group, often taking on dangerous tasks and facing formidable foes.

Her leadership and quick thinking have saved her friends’ lives on numerous occasions.

Diana was groundbreaking for her time, being one of the few black female cartoon characters in mainstream media, and her character continues to inspire viewers to this day.

32. Orange Blossom 

From: Strawberry Shortcake

Orange Blossom is a beloved black female cartoon character from the animated television series, Strawberry Shortcake. First introduced in 1980, Orange Blossom is depicted as a friendly and caring young girl with a passion for gardening.

Her cheerful personality and love for nature have endeared her to audiences of all ages. With her signature orange hat and green dress, she is easily recognizable among the Strawberry Shortcake characters.

Orange Blossom’s inclusion in the show was significant, as it provided representation for black girls who may have felt left out of mainstream media at the time.

Her character is a testament to the importance of diversity in animation and its impact on young viewers.

31. Goo 

From: Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends

Goo, short for “Goo Goo Ga Ga,” is a quirky and energetic black female cartoon character from the popular animated television series, Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends.

Introduced in the show’s second season, Goo is depicted as a highly imaginative and talkative young girl with an affinity for creating imaginary friends.

Her eccentric personality and unpredictable behavior often make her a source of comic relief in the show. However, Goo’s character is more than just comedic relief; she represents the importance of embracing one’s creativity and individuality.

Her character adds a much-needed dose of diversity and inclusivity to the show, inspiring young viewers to be confident in themselves and their imaginations.

30. Kiki Pizza 

From: Steven Universe

Kiki Pizza is a beloved black female cartoon character from the hit animated television series, Steven Universe. Kiki is depicted as a hardworking and responsible teenager who works at her family’s pizzeria.

Her character is known for her dedication to her job and her willingness to help her friends. Throughout the series, Kiki’s character develops and grows, as she deals with the challenges of balancing work, school, and her personal life.

Kiki’s inclusion in the show adds to its diverse cast, providing representation for black girls and highlighting the importance of hard work and responsibility.

Kiki’s character is a fan favorite, with many viewers relating to her struggles and admiring her perseverance.

29. Shana Elmsford 

From: Jem

Shana Elmsford is a talented black female cartoon character from the 1980s animated television series, Jem. As one of the main characters in the show, Shana is depicted as a creative and gifted musician and fashion designer.

Her character is known for her beautiful singing voice, and her fashion designs often steal the show. Shana’s inclusion in the show was significant, as she was one of the few black female cartoon characters in mainstream media at the time.

Her character represented the importance of diversity and inclusivity in animation, inspiring young girls of color to pursue their passions and follow their dreams.

28. Iridessa 

From: Tinker Bell

Iridessa is a beloved black female cartoon character from the Disney Fairies franchise, specifically the Tinker Bell movie series. Iridessa is depicted as a light fairy who is responsible for the changing of the seasons.

Her character is known for her practicality, logical thinking, and perfectionism. Throughout the Tinker Bell series, Iridessa’s character develops and grows, as she learns to appreciate the beauty of imperfection and to trust her instincts.

Her character adds a much-needed dose of diversity to the fairy world, providing representation for black girls and highlighting the importance of embracing one’s unique qualities. Iridessa’s character is a fan favorite, with many viewers relating to her perfectionism and admiring her growth.

27. Aisha 

From: Winx Club

Aisha, also known as Layla, is a courageous and kind black female cartoon character from the Italian animated television series, Winx Club.

Aisha is depicted as a water fairy with the power to control all aspects of water, from raindrops to tidal waves. As one of the main characters in the show, Aisha’s character is known for her bravery, loyalty, and strong will.

Her character is an inspiration to young girls, showing them the importance of standing up for what is right and being true to oneself.

Aisha’s inclusion in the show adds to its diverse cast, providing representation for black girls and highlighting the importance of unity and acceptance.

26. Blisstina Utonium 

From: The Power puff Girls 

Blisstina Utonium, also known as Bliss, is a unique and powerful black female cartoon character from the animated television series, The Power puff Girls.

Bliss is depicted as the long-lost older sister of the original Power puff Girls, with the ability to harness a wide range of energy-based powers. Her character is known for her bravery, intelligence, and compassion.

Bliss’s inclusion in the show adds to its diverse cast, providing representation for black girls and highlighting the importance of family and sisterhood.

Bliss’s character is a fan favorite, with many viewers relating to her struggle to find her place in the world and admiring her strength and resilience.

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25. Roberta Tubbs 

From: The Family Guy

Roberta Tubbs is a witty and confident black female cartoon character from the popular animated television series, The Family Guy.

Roberta is depicted as the daughter of Donna Tubbs, and the stepsister of Cleveland Jr. Her character is known for her sarcastic sense of humor, quick wit, and independence.

Roberta’s inclusion in the show adds to its diverse cast, providing representation for black girls and highlighting the importance of family and community.

Roberta’s character is a fan favorite, with many viewers relating to her struggle to navigate the complexities of adolescence and admiring her strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

24. Maxine Gibson 

From: Batman

Maxine Gibson is a brilliant and tech-savvy black female cartoon character from the acclaimed animated television series, Batman Beyond.

As the only character other than Terry McGinnis to know Batman’s true identity, Maxine plays a key role in supporting the caped crusader’s mission. Her character is known for her intelligence, ingenuity, and loyalty.

Maxine’s inclusion in the show adds to its diverse cast, providing representation for black girls and highlighting the importance of women in STEM fields.

Maxine’s character is a fan favorite, with many viewers admiring her quick thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as her unwavering support for Batman.

23. Leshawna 

From: Total Drama Island

Leshawna is a memorable black female cartoon character from the popular animated reality TV show Total Drama Island. She is known for her strong personality, sassy attitude, and infectious laughter.

Leshawna is confident, outspoken, and unapologetically herself, making her a fan favorite. Her strong sense of justice and loyalty to her friends make her a valuable teammate on the show.

Despite facing challenges and conflicts with other contestants, Leshawna remains true to herself and always speaks her mind.

She is a positive representation of a strong black woman in the media, and her character has become an inspiration for many viewers.

22. Jodie Landon 

From: Daria

Jodie Landon is a well-respected black female cartoon character from the iconic animated TV show Daria. She is intelligent, ambitious, and determined to succeed in all aspects of her life. Jodie is a high-achiever who excels academically and holds multiple leadership positions in the school.

Her character challenges the stereotypes of black women portrayed in media and showcases the diversity within the black community.

Jodie also experiences and addresses issues related to racism and discrimination in the show. She is a strong, relatable role model for young viewers, and her character continues to inspire and resonate with audiences to this day.

21. Kit

 From: Craig of the Creek 

Kit is a beloved black female cartoon character from the popular animated series Craig of the Creek. She is a confident and adventurous girl who loves to explore and discover new things in the Creek.

Kit is an expert in survival skills and frequently uses her knowledge to help her friends during their adventures. Her character is portrayed as independent, resourceful, and fearless, inspiring young viewers to be confident in themselves and their abilities.

Kit’s portrayal as a young black girl in a leadership role promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, making her an important and positive character for viewers of all ages.

20. Libby Folfax 

From: Jimmy Neutron

Libby Folfax is a memorable black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Jimmy Neutron. She is portrayed as outgoing, confident, and fashionable, with a great sense of humor.

Libby is also a loyal friend to the show’s protagonist, Jimmy Neutron, and is always ready to lend a hand when he needs it.

Her character is important in promoting diversity and representation in children’s media, as she is a positive role model for young girls of color.

Libby’s personality and character have made her a fan favorite and a symbol of inclusivity in animated television.

19. Foxxy Love 

From: Drawn Together

Foxxy Love is a black female cartoon character from the controversial animated TV show Drawn Together. She is a parody of the “sassy black woman” stereotype, with exaggerated mannerisms, speech, and sexuality.

Despite the show’s crude humor and often offensive content, Foxxy Love is a memorable character who challenges the status quo of traditional animation.

She is confident, bold, and not afraid to speak her mind, making her a symbol of empowerment for some viewers. However, her character has also faced criticism for perpetuating negative stereotypes and for her sexualized portrayal.

Nonetheless, Foxxy Love remains a significant figure in animated television history, and her character is a reflection of the evolution of representation in media.

 18. Lashawn 

From: Bébé’s Kids

LaShawn is a black female cartoon character from the animated film Bébé’s Kids. She is one of the titular “kids” and is known for her sassy and confident personality.

LaShawn is portrayed as a strong and independent young girl who is not afraid to speak her mind. She is a positive representation of black youth, challenging negative stereotypes that were prevalent in the media at the time of the film’s release.

Despite facing discrimination and prejudice, LaShawn remains resilient and stands up for herself and her friends. Her character has become a symbol of empowerment for many viewers, making her an important figure in animated film history.

17. Miranda Killgallen 

From: As Told By Ginger

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Miranda Killgallen is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show As Told By Ginger. She is portrayed as a popular and ambitious girl who attends Lucky Junior High School with the show’s protagonist, Ginger Foutley.

Miranda is a natural leader and is often in charge of planning social events and school projects. However, her character also has a darker side, as she is often manipulative and controlling.

Despite her flaws, Miranda is an important representation of black girls in children’s media, as her character challenges stereotypes and showcases the complexity and diversity within the black community.

16. Valerie Brown 

From: Josie And The Pussycats

Valerie Brown is a black female cartoon character from the classic animated TV show Josie and the Pussycats. She is the bassist for the band and is known for her strong and soulful vocals.

Valerie is portrayed as intelligent, confident, and independent, often serving as a voice of reason for her bandmates.

Her character was groundbreaking for the time, as she was one of the first black female characters in a lead role on a Saturday morning cartoon.

Valerie’s representation as a strong, talented, and successful black woman in media made her an inspiration for young viewers and an important figure in animation history.

 15. Kelly 

From: Star Vs. The Forces Of Evil

Kelly is a black female cartoon character from the animated TV show Star Vs. The Forces of Evil. She is a member of the Butterfly family’s royal guard and serves as a close friend and ally to the show’s protagonist, Star Butterfly.

Kelly is portrayed as courageous, resourceful, and loyal, often using her combat skills to protect her friends and allies.

Her character represents diversity in animation and challenges the lack of representation for black women in media.

Kelly’s inclusion in the show provides young viewers with a positive role model of color, inspiring them to be confident and strong in their abilities.

14. Dorothy Dottie McStuffins 

From: Doc McStuffins

Dorothy “Dottie” McStuffins is a beloved black female cartoon character from the hit children’s TV show Doc McStuffins.

She is the main character’s mother and serves as a doctor in her own right, providing medical care to her daughter’s stuffed animals.

Dottie is portrayed as caring, intelligent, and empathetic, inspiring young viewers to pursue their passions in medicine and science.

Her character represents a positive representation of black women in media, showcasing their skills and expertise in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Dottie’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, making her an important and inspiring figure for viewers of all ages.

13. Bumblebee 

From: Teen Titans Go!

Bumblebee is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Teen Titans Go!. She is a member of the Teen Titans team and is known for her intelligence, tech-savvy skills, and martial arts abilities.

Bumblebee is portrayed as confident, independent, and fiercely determined, often taking the lead in combat situations.

Her character is a positive representation of black women in media, showcasing their strength, intelligence, and resilience.

Bumblebee’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers of color to pursue their passions and interests, regardless of their gender or ethnicity.

12. Keesha Franklin 

From: Magic School Bus

Keesha Franklin is a black female cartoon character from the classic educational TV show Magic School Bus.

She is one of the students in Ms. Frizzle’s class and is known for her curiosity and love of science. Keesha is portrayed as intelligent, resourceful, and confident, often using her scientific knowledge to help the class overcome challenges.

Her character represents a positive representation of black girls in media, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Keesha’s inclusion in the show encourages young viewers to pursue their interests in science and technology, regardless of their race or gender.

11. Numbuh 5 

From: Codename: Kids Next Door

Numbuh 5, whose real name is Abigail Lincoln, is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Codename: Kids Next Door.

She is a high-ranking member of the Kids Next Door organization and is known for her intelligence, wit, and cool demeanor. Numbuh 5 is portrayed as a skilled strategist and combatant, often using her abilities to help her team complete missions.

Her character represents a positive representation of black girls in media, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Numbuh 5’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be confident and strong in their abilities.

10. Susie Carmichael 

From: Rugrats

Susie Carmichael is a black female cartoon character from the beloved children’s TV show Rugrats. She is the neighbor and friend of the show’s main character, Tommy Pickles, and is known for her intelligence, confidence, and musical talents.

Susie is portrayed as a positive role model for young viewers, showcasing the importance of education, creativity, and self-expression.

Her character represents a positive representation of black girls in media, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Susie’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be proud of their identities and talents.

9. Alex Casoy 

From: Totally Spies

Alex Casoy is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Totally Spies. She is one of the three main spies, alongside Sam and Clover, and is known for her energy, humor, and athleticism.

Alex is portrayed as a positive role model for young viewers, showcasing the importance of teamwork, determination, and bravery.

Her character represents a positive representation of black girls in media, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Alex’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be confident and strong in their abilities, regardless of their race or gender.

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8. Suga Mama 

From: The Proud Family

Suga Mama is a black female cartoon character from the iconic animated TV show The Proud Family. She is the grandmother of the show’s main character, Penny Proud, and is known for her feisty personality, quick wit, and fierce love for her family.

Suga Mama is portrayed as a positive representation of black grandmothers, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the importance of family and community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing comedic relief and valuable life lessons for the younger characters.

Suga Mama’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to value the wisdom and guidance of their elders.

7. Donna Tubbs

From: Brown The Family Guy

Donna Tubbs is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Family Guy, and later the spinoff show The Cleveland Show.

She is the wife of Cleveland Brown and is known for her strong-willed personality, intelligence, and sense of humor.

Donna is portrayed as a positive representation of black women, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing support and guidance for her family and friends. Donna’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in mainstream media, inspiring young viewers to appreciate the strength and resilience of black women.

6. Trixie Carter 

From: American Dragon: Jake Long

Trixie Carter is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show American Dragon: Jake Long. She is one of the main characters and is known for her tough personality, loyalty, and street smarts.

Trixie is portrayed as a positive representation of black girls, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing support and encouragement for the main character, Jake Long, and showcasing the strength and intelligence of black women.

Trixie’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be proud of their identities and abilities.

5. Valerie Gray 

From: Danny Phantom

Valerie Gray is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Danny Phantom. She is a classmate of the main character, Danny, and is known for her intelligence, athletic abilities, and determination.

Valerie is portrayed as a positive representation of black girls, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing both challenges and support for Danny and showcasing the strength and resilience of black women.

Valerie’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be proud of their abilities and confident in their identities.

4. Penny Proud 

From: The Proud Family

Penny Proud is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show The Proud Family. She is the main character and is known for her spunky personality, quick wit, and passion for social justice.

Penny is portrayed as a positive representation of black girls, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing insight into the experiences of black families and highlighting the strength and resilience of black women.

Penny’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be proud of their identities and strive for their dreams.

3. Monique 

From: Kim Possible

Monique is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show Kim Possible. She is the best friend of the main character, Kim, and is known for her fashion sense, confidence, and expertise in technology.

Monique is portrayed as a positive representation of black girls, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing support and guidance for Kim and showcasing the strength and intelligence of black women.

Monique’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be proud of their identities and talents.

2. Storm 

From: X-Men: The Animated Series

Storm is a black female cartoon character from the popular animated TV show X-Men: The Animated Series. She is one of the core members of the X-Men and is known for her incredible weather-manipulating powers, intelligence, and leadership skills.

Storm is portrayed as a positive representation of black women, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the show, providing strategic planning and strength in battles while also showing a nurturing and empathetic side.

Storm’s inclusion in the show promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to be confident in their abilities and identities.

1. Princess Tiana 

From: The Princess And The Frog

Princess Tiana is a black female cartoon character from the animated movie The Princess and the Frog. She is known for her determination, hard work, and kind heart.

Tiana is portrayed as a positive representation of black women, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within the black community.

Her character is an important figure in the movie, highlighting the struggles and perseverance of black women in achieving their dreams.

Tiana’s inclusion in the movie promotes diversity and representation in children’s media, inspiring young viewers to pursue their passions and goals regardless of their race or background.