In animated movies, the main characters often take center stage, but sometimes, it is the sidekicks who steal the show. Whether they are providing comic relief, emotional depth or unexpected wisdom, these supporting characters often become the most memorable part of the movie. From hilarious talking animals to loyal companions and mischievous tricksters, these sidekicks often overshadow the heroes with their charm, wit and unforgettable moments. Some have even become so popular that they got their own spin offs!
Donkey – Shrek, 2001
Why He Stole the Show: Donkey, voiced by Eddie Murphy, is not just comic relief, he is the heart and soul of Shrek. His quick witted humor, constant chatter and over the top energy makes him more entertaining than Shrek himself. Most Iconic Moment: His rendition of “I’m a Believer” at the end of the movie remains one of the most memorable animated film finales. What Makes Him Special: His loyalty to Shrek, combined with his relentless optimism, makes him a scene stealer in every interaction.
Mushu – Mulan, 1998
Voiced by Eddie Murphy, Mushu is a tiny dragon with a huge personality, often outshining Mulan with his fast talking antics and misplaced confidence. Most Iconic Moment: His desperate attempt to pass himself off as a great warrior spirit while being, in reality, a miniature, fire breathing lizard. What Makes Him Special: Despite his comedic failures, Mushu proves to be a genuinely caring and devoted guardian to Mulan.
Olaf – Frozen, 2013
Olaf is a talking snowman with childlike innocence and boundless enthusiasm. His naïve yet hilarious observations about the world makes him to standout. Most Iconic Moment: Singing “In Summer”, a song about his excitement for warm weather, completely oblivious to the fact that he would melt in the heat. What Makes Him Special: Olaf’s pure hearted optimism and unshakable faith in friendship make him more than just comic relief.
Timon & Pumbaa – The Lion King, 1994
Okay, technically two characters, but you cannot mention one without the other! This iconic duo provided endless laughs with their carefree “Hakuna Matata” philosophy while also offering some of the film’s most heartfelt moments. The duo of Timon the meerkat and Pumbaa the warthog provide a comedic counterbalance to the film’s darker moments. Most Iconic Moment: Their Hakuna Matata philosophy, teaching Simba to let go of worries and live freely.
Dory – Finding Nemo, 2003
Dory, voiced by Ellen DeGeneres, was so popular that she got her own spin off, Finding Dory, 2016. Most Iconic Moment: “Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!” a catchphrase that became a cultural phenomenon. What Makes Her Special? Her forgetfulness leads to hilarious situations, but her kindness and courage made her one of Pixar’s most beloved characters Ellen DeGeneres’ Dory was so popular, she got her own sequel.
Genie – Aladdin, 1992
Voiced by Robin Williams, Genie is a non stop burst of energy, impressions and heartwarming moments that often outshine the hero, Aladdin. Most Iconic Moment: His musical number “Friend Like Me”, where he hilariously showcases his shape shifting abilities. What Makes Him Special: Genie’s boundless charisma, humor and genuine friendship with Aladdin makes him one of the most legendary sidekicks in animation history.
Baloo – The Jungle Book, 1967
Why He Stole the Show: This laid back, jazz loving bear is the life of The Jungle Book, bringing fun, wisdom and musical charm to the story. Most Iconic Moment: Singing “The Bare Necessities”, an anthem for living life without worries. What Makes Him Special: Baloo’s fatherly bond with Mowgli and his fun loving nature make him a true scene stealer.
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Baymax – Big Hero 6, 2014
Baymax, the inflatable healthcare robot, became the heart of Big Hero 6 with his gentle nature, hilarious misunderstandings of human behavior and surprising heroism. His deadpan delivery, combined with his innocent yet insightful interactions, made him an instant fan favorite. Most Iconic Moment: When Baymax runs low on battery and starts acting drunk, wobbling around while slurring his words: “We jumped out a window!” and “I am not fast.”
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Kronk – The Emperor’s New Groove, 2000
Kronk might be Yzma’s bumbling henchman, but he completely steals the spotlight with his hilarious one-liners, lovable personality, and surprisingly impressive cooking skills. His inner monologues, complete with angel and devil versions of himself debating moral dilemmas, add to his charm. Despite working for the villain, Kronk remains endearing and good-natured, making him one of Disney’s most unexpectedly beloved supporting characters. His wholesome personality and unexpected talents, like speaking squirrel and being an incredible chef, make him even more unforgettable.
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Sid – Ice Age, 2002
Sid, the goofy and lovable sloth, is the comic heart of the Ice Age franchise. With his lisping voice, clumsy nature and endless chatter, he provides non stop laughs while also bringing emotional warmth to the story. Most Iconic Moment: His “fire dance” scene, where he hilariously tries to impress a group of mini sloths who mistakenly worship him as their fire god. What Makes Him Special: Despite his bumbling and often annoying personality, Sid is loyal, caring and surprisingly wise in his own way.
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Pascal – Tangled, 2010
This tiny but fiercely loyal chameleon serves as Rapunzel’s best friend and protector, always keeping an eye out for trouble. Despite his small size, he has a big personality, using his expressive eyes, color changing abilities and silent yet sassy demeanor to communicate. His playful nature brings lighthearted moments, but he is also incredibly brave, even standing up to Mother Gothel when necessary.
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Maximus – Tangled, 2010
Maximus, the royal guard horse, is fiercer than most knights and more expressive than many human characters. Despite not speaking, his hilarious rivalry with Flynn Rider and his over the top sense of duty make him a standout character. Most Iconic Moment: His relentless chase sequences with Flynn, where he moves and fights like a highly trained soldier, while still being a horse. What Makes Him Special: Maximus is not just a sidekick he is a one, horse army with the determination of a knight and the loyalty of a best friend.
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While main characters drive the story, these animated sidekicks often steal the spotlight with their humor, charm and emotional depth. Whether it is Donkey’s non stop jokes, Baymax’s heartwarming loyalty or Maximus’ knight like dedication, these characters leave lasting impressions that sometimes outshine the protagonists themselves. Their hilarious antics, unexpected wisdom and unwavering friendships makes them more than just comic relief, they become the soul of their movies, providing emotional weight and unforgettable moments. Many have even become cultural icons, proving that sometimes, it is the sidekick, not the hero, who truly wins the audience’s heart.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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