Cartoons are one of the core elements of childhood experiences for most people. And just like times change and culture evolves from generation to generation, cartoons and their style of storytelling have also changed over the years. For female cartoon characters especially, the shift has been massive — from princesses like Snow White, the typical damsel in distress waiting for her Prince Charming, to characters like Frozen’s Elsa and Anna, and even the controversial Disney live-action remakes that rewrote princess stories to embrace more bold, daring, and independent women.
From the relatable realist, Daria, to the leader of the girl-power movement, Barbie, and even the rough, loud, and free-spirited girls like Buttercup, these characters continue to remind girls and women of all ages that they can be anything they want — simply by being themselves.
Barbie (Barbie Franchise)
Barbie has been one of the most iconic female cartoon characters, with several franchises bearing her name, including the live-action adaptation starring Margot Robbie in the 2023 film Barbie.
Over the years, there have been over forty Barbie movies in which the iconic cartoon character uses her kindness and talents to prevail. In the 2016 animated movie, Barbie: Spy Squad, Barbie, Teresa, and Renee were talented gymnasts who later joined a secret agency as undercover agents.
With thousands of Barbie doll versions having been created, evolving to reflect a wider range of inclusivity rather than the typical blonde, skinny version many of us grew up with. This now includes curvy, tall, and petite Barbies, as well as dolls reflecting permanent physical disabilities, such as a doll with a wheelchair and another with a prosthetic leg.
Ken dolls weren’t left out of this diversity and inclusivity movement either. The Ken lineup also evolved with new body types and features, introducing more modern and relatable looks, including a man bun, cornrows, and freckles.
Carmen Sandiago (Carmen Sandiago)
Gina Rodriguez voiced Carmen Sandiego in the 2019 Netflix animated series Carmen Sandiego. The orphaned Carmen was raised at V.I.L.E. Academy — a school specifically designed to train people on how to become professional thieves. Some very colorful characters ran the academy, including Coach Brunt, who trained the muscle and fighters of the faculty, and Dr. Bellum, the scientist and inventor behind missions that required advanced tech and science.
Carmen Sandiego is a bold and daring female cartoon character who, despite being raised by the “vile bunch,” found the courage to break free. She turned her skills against them, often going toe-to-toe with V.I.L.E. faculty and students on several missions — and still came out on top.
It’s also worth mentioning that Carmen Sandiego can be seen as a female version of Robin Hood. While searching for answers about her mother and her true identity, she travels the world, stealing from criminals and returning stolen treasures and art to their rightful owners.
Marinette Dupain-Cheng/ Ladybug (Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir)
Ladybug is the bolder and tougher character and can very well be described as the second personality of Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Where Marinette is timid, nervous, and clumsy, the superhero Ladybug is bolder, standing up for the entire city of Paris several times and going up against Hawk Moth and all his akumatized villains. In addition to the strength and super strength she gets from the Ladybug Miraculous, she uses her smarts and her wits to use her Lucky Charm.
With Hawk Moth out of the way and Marinette and Adrien finally finding their way to each other after what seemed to be a star-crossed love story, fans of Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir have their eyes peeled on what’s next the Disney animated series has in store and how their love story and dangerous adventures take their next big turn.
Avatar Korra (Legend of Korra)
After the death of the former Avatar, Aang, Korra, a strong-willed waterbender from the Southern Water Tribe, is tasked with the role of bringing balance to the world. In a modern world with modern technology, from the moment she appeared on screen as the new avatar, Korra had to prove herself to the humans and spirits alike. Though society didn’t make it easy for her, Korra never faltered; instead, she rose to the occasion, battling against warlords, anarchists, and her own personal demons, inspiring an audience that nothing should ever get in the way.
Toph Beifong (Last Airbender)
When you think of bold female cartoon characters, who better to mention than the “Blind Bandit” herself? With a fiery spirit and a sharp tongue to match, Toph showed resilience and insane creativity in various ways throughout the series, proving that even a blind girl with no knowledge of the outside world can become the greatest earthbender in the world.
Garnet (Steven Universe)
The fusion of crystal gems Ruby and Sapphire, Garnet, leads with calm wisdom and silent strength. She represented balance and emotional control in a world of chaos, proving that strength comes from within.
Velma Dinkley (Scooby Doo)
As the analytical genius of Mystery Inc., Velma utilized her quick wits to solve mysteries that others could not even begin to comprehend. She isn’t defined by glamour or popularity; instead, she shines through logical reasoning and bravery in facing the unknown (as long as she has her glasses on, of course). Velma normalised being “the smart girl” long before it was cool.
Princess Bubblegum (Adventure Time)
A mix of science and royalty wrapped in a pink candy cane. Bubblegum leads the Candy Kingdom with empathy but never shies away from making cold and tough decisions. Her intelligence doesn’t make her cold; instead, she uses it to build, create, and protect. She’s a reminder that being “sweet” and being powerful are not mutually exclusive.
Raven (Teen Titans)
This half-demon and half-human witch constantly battles her dark side while using her powers for good. Beneath her stoic demeanour lies a compassionate, loyal, and self-restrained member of the Teen Titans, making her one of the most psychologically complex heroines in animation.
Mulan (Disney’s Mulan).
Mulan’s decision to disguise herself as a man and take her father’s place in the army changed the face of animated heroines. She’s bold, clever, and incredibly selfless, redefining what courage looks like. Her bravery comes from a deep sense of duty and identity. She isn’t just fighting for honor; she’s fighting for the right to be herself in a world of conformity.
Blossom (The Powerpuff Girls)
Don’t be fooled by the bows and pretty pink dress; Blossom is a tactical mastermind and the self-appointed leader of her superpowered sisters. Despite her rigid exterior, Blossom cares deeply for her sisters and will go to any lengths to protect them. Proving that leadership is about teamwork and compassion, not just raw strength.
Daria Morgendorffer (Daria)
Daria is the embodiment of rebellion. Armed with sarcasm and a razor-sharp intellect, she challenges societal norms and the shallow expectations around her. Her deadpan humour and unapologetic persona gave an entire generation of introverts and intellectuals someone to relate to. Her boldness lies in her refusal to conform.
Elsa (Frozen)
Elsa’s journey is one of self-acceptance. At first, she hides her powers out of fear, but as she learns to embrace her magic, she becomes a symbol of freedom by learning to “Let it Go.” Her brilliance lies in her understanding that control doesn’t come from fear; it comes from acceptance, making her one of Disney’s most nuanced heroines.
April O’Neil (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)
As a high schooler and ally to the Turtles, April O’Neil brought intelligence and courage to the team. She constantly investigated dangerous stories, risking her once-perfect life to help her newfound family. April represented the power of curiosity; she was fearless in seeking truth, even when it led her into uncertainty.
Jessica Rabbit (Who Framed Roger Rabbit?)
Jessica may be drawn “bad,” but she’s anything but. Beneath her sultry image lies loyalty and heart. She challenges stereotypes of femininity, showing that beauty and intelligence can coexist powerfully. Her boldness lies in her confidence and in never apologising for who she is, while proving there’s no need to have a tough shell when it comes to the ones you love.
Rayla (The Dragon Prince)
This Moonshadow Elf assassin has an unmatched agility and a heart full of compassion. Torn between duty and conscience, Rayla constantly risks her life for what’s right, even if it goes against everything she once believed.
Wonder Woman/Diana Prince (Justice League/DC Animated Universe)
The Amazonian princess and symbol of honesty in the Justice League. Wonder Woman combines grace, strength, and compassion. Her diplomacy matches her skill in combat, making her one of the most respected superheroes of all time. She’s proof that true power lies in empathy as much as strength.
Jinx (Arcane / League of Legends)
Brilliant and broken, Jinx is a mixture of innovation and chaos personified. Her talent with weapons and technology is matched only by her emotional volatility. She’s a tragic, electrifying character, proof that brilliance can come with pain and madness with heart.
Supergirl/ Kara Zor-El (DC Animated Universe / Supergirl Animated Films)
As the last surviving member of the Man of Steel, Supergirl carries the same power as Superman but faces different expectations. She learns to balance strength with empathy while stepping out of her cousin’s shadow and proving herself.
Harley Quinn (Batman: The Animated Series / Harley Quinn)
Originally introduced as the Joker’s sidekick, Harley evolved into her own chaotic, charismatic force. She’s a genius psychiatrist turned antihero who reclaims her independence, proving that transformation is its own kind of power.
Kim Possible (Kim Possible)
Kim Possible is the teen heroine, juggling cheerleading, school life, and saving the world from villains on her communicator. What makes Kim truly bold isn’t just her athleticism or gadgets, but her confidence in tackling every challenge head-on. Her message to young girls everywhere is clear: you can be both feminine and fearless.
Vex’ahlia (The Legend of Vox Machina)
A cunning ranger and sharpshooter, Vex is fiercely protective of her twin brother and her team. Her mix of humour and depth makes her a standout in the world of fantasy animation.
Nani Pelekai (Lilo & Stitch)
As a young woman raising her sister, Nani is the embodiment of resilience and strength. Throughout the movie, she goes to any lengths to protect Lilo while mourning the loss of their dead mother. Nani proved that you don’t need powers to protect those you love.
Gwen Stacy / Spider-Woman (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse & Across the Spider-Verse)
Gwen Stacy, better known in her universe as Spider-Woman, is a whirlwind of grace and strength. Behind the mask lies a girl who’s faced the loss of a friend, guilt, and the pressure of living up to her own heroic ideals, yet she continues to rise above it all.
Gwen Tennyson (Ben 10 Franchise)
Gwen Tennyson is the brains and backbone of the Ben 10 team. A prodigy who proves that intellect and empathy can rival even alien powers. From a witty, book-smart kid to a skilled magic wielder and Anodite warrior, Gwen’s growth is nothing short of spectacular.
