Popular orange-colored cartoon characters are Garfield, Charizard, Velma Dinkley, Nemo, Tigger, Jake the Dog, and Heatblast.
From charming, lazy cats to adventure-loving dogs and fiery fighters, these characters illuminate our screens with their zestful personalities and unforgettable tales.
This roundup celebrates these citrusy stars that have added warmth, laughter, and a dash of fiery spirit to our animated experience.
Celebrating the Best Orange Cartoon Characters
Join us as we pay tribute to the best orange cartoon characters who’ve colored our screens and hearts!
14Garfield – The Grumpy Gourmet

Garfield has been lying on the charm and lasagna since 1978, when cartoonist Jim Davis first sketched him. With an insatiable appetite for food and a deep disdain for Mondays, Garfield has won over millions of hearts worldwide.
Despite his slacker persona, this charismatic cat proves that you don’t need to be overly energetic to make a lasting impression. The orange in Garfield is not just his coat; his warm, humorous, and oddly relatable personality keeps audiences coming back for more.
13Charizard – The Fiery Flamethrower

Every 90’s kid will remember the thrill of unwrapping a Pokémon card deck, and praying for the coveted Charizard. One of the original 151 Pokémon, Charizard is a fiery dragon-like character, distinctive with his bold orange and blue color scheme.
As Ash’s stubborn yet undeniably powerful ally, Charizard left a blazing trail in the Pokémon universe. His fiery spirit and battling prowess make him one of the most iconic orange characters ever.
12Velma Dinkley – The Brainy Buff

“Jinkies!” Who doesn’t recognize Velma Dinkley, the orange turtleneck-clad whiz kid of the Mystery Inc. squad from Scooby-Doo? With her square glasses, pixie cut, and IQ that could put Einstein to shame, Velma is proof that intellect and courage can solve even the most complex mysteries.
While she might not be orange in complexion, her iconic outfit and fiery persona make her an essential addition to this list.
11Hobbes – The Imaginative Icon

Calvin’s trusty tiger, Hobbes, from the comic strip “Calvin and Hobbes,” is a beacon of childhood imagination and joy. When Calvin exits the real world, Hobbes transforms from a stuffed animal into a living, breathing, philosophical creature.
With his distinctive orange and black stripes, Hobbes has won our hearts by bringing to life the pure, unadulterated joy of childhood fantasy.
10Nemo – The Adventurous Acrobat

Last, we dive into the ocean to meet Nemo, the small, determined, one-finned fish from Pixar’s “Finding Nemo.” Despite being physically challenged, Nemo displays immense bravery and tenacity, inspiring everyone he meets during his ocean-spanning adventure.
This little orange clownfish taught us the power of perseverance, proving that strength comes in all sizes and shapes.
9Tony the Tiger – The Cereal Supremo

“Gr-r-reat!” is the catchphrase of one of the most iconic mascots in the food industry – Tony the Tiger from Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes. With his vibrant orange fur and blue bandana, this burly, buff, and the bouncy tiger has encouraged kids to have a “great” breakfast since the 1950s.
The popularity of this cartoon character has made him a permanent fixture in our grocery aisles and hearts.
8Kenny McCormick – The Enigmatic Enigma

While this orange parka-clad character from “South Park” doesn’t say much (that we can understand), Kenny McCormick’s presence is undeniably strong.
He may be notorious for his recurring deaths and muffled speech, but beneath that oversized hood is a character with a complicated and quite extraordinary life. Kenny reminds us that it’s not just the color you wear but the charisma you carry that makes you memorable.
7Tigger – The Bouncy Buddy

Bounding into our next spot is Tigger from “Winnie the Pooh.” With his springy tail and striped orange fur, this energetic tiger brings fun and liveliness wherever he goes.
His infectious laughter and optimistic outlook teach us that sometimes, all we need to do is bounce our troubles away. With his vivacious personality, Tigger has hopped his way into being an unforgettable orange character.
6Daphne Blake – The Scarlet Sleuth

We’re back with the Mystery Inc. gang from “Scooby-Doo.” With her signature orange hair and fashion-forward purple ensemble, Daphne Blake is more than just a pretty face.
Daphne’s resourcefulness and bravery have saved the day numerous times, proving that fiery locks pair well with a fiery spirit. As a crucial member of the crime-solving crew, she adds a touch of elegance and courage, proving that you can kick butt and look fabulous doing it.
5Jake the Dog – The Magical Mutt

Adventure Time’s Jake the Dog isn’t your average pet. This magical, shape-shifting dog is a lovable blend of wisdom, humor, and love for everything bacon pancakes.
With his bright, golden-orange color and knack for dispensing oddly sage advice, Jake has become a favorite among fans, young and old. He’s a great example of how being flexible (both physically and mentally) can lead to grand adventures!
4Fox McCloud – The Galactic Guardian

Fox McCloud, the main character from the Star Fox series, is a force to be reckoned with. As a fearless leader and skilled pilot, Fox stands out with his orange fur, green attire, and quick-witted character.
He’s battled countless adversaries to maintain peace in the Lylat system, proving that determination and courage are universal traits whether you’re an anthropomorphic fox or not.
3Heatblast – The Fiery Fighter

Heatblast, from the Ben 10 series, is ablaze with his fiery body and burning abilities. This orange-red alien superhero, with the power to control and create fire, never fails to light up the scene.
His presence alone brings warmth and vibrancy, a testament to his flaming orange color. Heatblast shows that no problem is too big with every villain he burns down when you’re willing to face it head-on.
2Ernie – The Playful Prankster

From the classic Sesame Street, Ernie, with his iconic orange and blue striped sweater and infectious laughter, has been brightening our TV screens since the 1960s.
Whether playing tricks on his best friend Bert or singing to his rubber ducky, Ernie’s jovial spirit and playful antics make him an all-time favorite orange character for kids and adults.
1Michelangelo – The Pizza-Loving Ninja

Wrapping up our list, we have Michelangelo from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Known for his orange mask and wild nunchaku skills, Michelangelo is the free-spirited, pizza-loving, and most easy-going of the four brothers.
His infectious enthusiasm and lighthearted humor bring an energy that perfectly contrasts his darker, more serious siblings. Michelangelo’s love for life reminds us that no matter how tough things get, you’ve got to keep the party going.