Purple cartoon characters like Grimace, Tinky Winky, and more are famous ones. They have always stood out with their vibrant and unique look, making them unforgettable icons in animation. Some of the cartoons are aired on Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Pogo, and more.
We all watched cartoons in our childhood, and many of these characters became our favorites. From funny sidekicks to powerful heroes and quirky villains, they bring creativity, charm, and personality to our screens. In this guide, we’ll explore 40 of the most iconic purple characters that have left a lasting mark on pop culture.
40 Purple Cartoon Characters Names
A long list of light purple, dark purple, and purple cartoon characters has stayed close to our hearts since childhood. Here’s a roundup to bring back memories of each one in male and female purple cartoon characters, such as:
- Barney the Dinosaur (Barney & Friends)
- Grimace (McDonald’s)
- Count von Count (Sesame Street)
- Tinky Winky (Teletubbies)
- Spyro the Dragon (Spyro the Dragon)
- Randall Boggs (Monsters, Inc.)
- Purple Tentacle (Day of the Tentacle)
- Leela’s Pet Nibbler (Futurama), though pet-like, often male-coded
- Beast (X-Men Animated Series purple/blue tones)
- Hit (Dragon Ball Super)
- Amethyst Catra variant (She-Ra and the Princesses of Power)
- Ditto (Pokémon often depicted as male in various versions)
- Grape Ape (The Great Grape Ape Show)
- Huckleberry Hound (Hanna-Barbera purplish-blue tint)
- Eggplant Wizard (Captain N: The Game Master)
- Shockwave (Transformers purple Decepticon)
- Donatello (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles purple bandana)
- Waluigi (Mario series purple outfit)
- Beerus (Dragon Ball Z)
- Malva Purple Imp (Various Looney Tunes shorts)
- Amethyst (Steven Universe)
- Leela (Futurama purple hair)
- Hit-Girl (Kick-Ass animated/graphic adaptation)
- Twilight Sparkle (My Little Pony)
- Lumpy Space Princess (Adventure Time)
- Ursula (The Little Mermaid)
- Yzma (The Emperor’s New Groove)
- Malva (Pokémon X/Y)
- Haiku (The Loud House purple goth aesthetic)
- Iris (LOL Surprise Dolls animated series purple hair)
- Shy Violet (Rainbow Brite)
- Violetta (Winx Club purple-themed fairy)
- Raven (Teen Titans purple aura/outfit)
- Hitomi (Escaflowne purple uniform)
- Hela (Thor: Ragnarok animated series version purple tones)
- Mama Odie (The Princess and the Frog, sometimes in purple gowns)
- Lydia Deetz (Beetlejuice animated series, purple attire)
- Wanda (The Fairly OddParents, purple hair in some depictions)
- Malva (Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures purple outfits)
- Camilla (Sofia the First purple dress)
Male Purple Cartoon Characters
Barney the Dinosaur
Barney is one of the most iconic purple characters in children’s television. With his friendly songs, playful lessons, and caring personality, he became a symbol of childhood joy and imagination.
- Famous for teaching love, friendship, and sharing.
- His cheerful purple look makes him instantly recognizable.
- A global figure in early learning entertainment.
Barney’s positive energy and educational approach made him a childhood companion for millions. And he stands out as one of the guy cartoon characters in the animated world.
Grimace
Grimace is McDonald’s lovable purple mascot known for his clumsy yet kind personality. Originally introduced as a villain, he quickly evolved into a friendly character.
- Known for his goofy smile and simple-minded charm.
- Symbol of McDonald’s fun and family-friendly image.
- Represents the joy of milkshakes in McDonald’s lore.
Grimace may be odd, but his lovable nature turned him into a fast-food pop culture legend.
Count von Count
The Count is Sesame Street’s number-loving vampire with a purple complexion. His passion for counting brings both humor and learning to children.
- Known for his laugh: “Ah-ah-ah!”
- Helps kids learn numbers in an entertaining way.
- Unique design mixes spooky and fun.
Count von Count proves that education and entertainment can go hand in hand.
Tinky Winky
Tinky Winky is the purple Teletubby, instantly recognized for his red bag and antenna. Gentle and quirky, he’s a favorite among fans of the show.
- Known for carrying his magical red bag.
- Calm, cheerful, and friendly in personality.
- Purple design makes him stand out in Teletubbyland.
Tinky Winky’s colorful personality remains a cherished part of children’s TV, similar to the charm of light pink cartoon characters that light up children’s shows.
Spyro the Dragon
Spyro is the adventurous purple dragon from the beloved video game series. Mischievous yet brave, he’s always ready to take on enemies with fire-breathing action.
- Recognizable for his playful spirit and purple scales.
- A hero of multiple game generations.
- Symbol of courage and adventure.
Spyro’s witty personality and heroic journey made him one of gaming’s biggest icons.
Randall Boggs
Randall is the sneaky, lizard-like villain from Monsters, Inc. His purple appearance matches his sly and competitive personality.
- Known for his ability to turn invisible.
- A rival to Sulley and always scheming.
- His design makes him both creepy and fascinating.
Randall remains one of Pixar’s most memorable villains.
Purple Tentacle
Purple Tentacle is a comical yet evil character from LucasArts’ classic video game. His ambition to rule the world makes him unforgettable.
- Clever and sarcastic personality.
- Recognizable for his evil laugh and quirky design.
- A cult favorite in retro gaming.
Purple Tentacle is a hilarious example of how villains can be both menacing and fun.
Nibbler
Though small and pet-like, Nibbler has a hidden depth as a powerful, intelligent being. His purple-black design adds mystery to his character.
- Acts cute but secretly controls great power.
- Known for his appetite and strange droppings.
- Often plays a bigger role in Futurama’s storylines.
Nibbler blends cuteness and cosmic mystery perfectly.
Beast
Beast is the intelligent, purple-blue mutant from X-Men. Despite his beastly appearance, he is calm, articulate, and wise.
- Combines brute strength with intelligence.
- Known for his scientific brilliance.
- Gentle soul, despite his intimidating looks.
Beast proves that true power lies in the brain and heart, not just brawn. His unique look often reminds fans of other long faces cartoon characters who stand out for their distinctive design.
Hit
Hit is the legendary assassin from Universe 6 in Dragon Ball Super. His purple skin and calm demeanor add to his deadly aura.
- Master of the “Time-Skip” technique.
- Calm, disciplined, and strategic.
- Recognized for his sharp, serious look.
Hit’s silent strength makes him one of Dragon Ball’s most feared warriors.
Ditto
Ditto is a purple Pokémon known for its unique transformation ability. Though simple in appearance, it’s endlessly versatile.
- Can copy any Pokémon’s form.
- Known for its blank smile.
- Often used in battles and breeding.
Ditto’s adaptability makes it one of the most iconic Pokémon.
Grape Ape
Grape Ape is a giant, friendly purple gorilla from Hanna-Barbera. Despite his size, he’s gentle and kind-hearted.
- Famous for saying “Grape Ape, Grape Ape.”
- Huge size but a soft personality.
- Travels with his canine friend Beegle Beagle.
Grape Ape is a beloved example of strength and kindness combined.
Huckleberry Hound
Huckleberry Hound is a purplish-blue dog known for his southern drawl and laid-back personality.
- Recognizable for his off-key singing.
- Calm, slow, and friendly in nature.
- One of Hanna-Barbera’s most iconic stars.
Huckleberry Hound’s charm and humor made him an animation classic.
Eggplant Wizard
Eggplant Wizard is a comical villain from the classic series. As his name suggests, he’s eggplant-shaped and mischievous.
- Turns enemies into eggplants.
- Quirky design makes him funny yet weird.
- Works under the villain Mother Brain.
Eggplant Wizard remains one of the quirkiest purple villains ever.
Shockwave
Shockwave is a cold, logical purple Decepticon. His intelligence and loyalty to Megatron make him one of the most feared Transformers.
- A single glowing eye makes him iconic.
- Known for his cold, calculating logic.
- Purple design reflects his menacing nature.
Shockwave is a classic robotic villain fans won’t forget.
Donatello
Donatello is the tech genius of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, easily recognized by his purple bandana.
- Smartest of the turtles, inventor of gadgets.
- Fights with a bo staff.
- Calm, collected, and logical.
Donatello proves brains and brawn can go hand in hand.
Waluigi
Waluigi is the tall, lanky, purple-clad rival in the Mario franchise. Known for his mischief and over-the-top personality, he’s become a fan favorite.
- A rival to Luigi, mischievous in nature.
- Known for his “Waaah” catchphrase.
- The purple outfit makes him stand out.
Waluigi’s chaotic energy keeps him memorable in the Mario universe.
Beerus
Beerus is the purple God of Destruction in the Dragon Ball series. Lazy yet immensely powerful, he commands respect.
- Based on a sphynx cat.
- Known for his destructive powers.
- Loves food, especially Earth cuisine.
Beerus balances divine power with quirky humor.
Amethyst Catra
In alternate forms, Catra’s purple look enhances her fierce warrior side.
- Known for her sharp wit and fighting skills.
- Purple hues highlight her strength.
- A complex mix of villain and anti-hero.
Catra remains one of the most layered purple characters in animation.
Female Purple Cartoon Characters
Amethyst (Steven Universe)
Amethyst is a fun-loving purple Gem who balances humor with hidden depth.
- Known for her laid-back attitude.
- Can shapeshift into different forms.
- Purple color reflects her mysterious energy.
Amethyst is both hilarious and heartfelt, making her a fan favorite and one of the leading female animated characters.
Leela
Turanga Leela is the one-eyed captain with striking purple hair. Smart and compassionate, she balances brains with bravery.
- Skilled pilot of Planet Express.
- Known for her leadership.
- Purple hair is her signature look.
Leela’s mix of strength and heart makes her unforgettable.
Hit-Girl
Hit-Girl is the fierce young vigilante with purple hair. She’s fast, skilled, and fearless.
- Known for her martial arts mastery.
- Small but deadly in combat.
- Purple outfit and hair make her stand out.
Hit-Girl’s mix of innocence and violence makes her strikingly unique.
Twilight Sparkle
Twilight Sparkle is the purple unicorn princess who embodies friendship and wisdom.
- Smart, bookish, and kind.
- A leader among her pony friends.
- Purple reflects magic and creativity.
Twilight Sparkle is an inspirational character for children worldwide. She is one of the tiny characters in the cartoon world.
Lumpy Space Princess
LSP is the sassy, lump-covered purple princess from Adventure Time.
- Famous for her valley-girl voice.
- Quirky, dramatic, and bold.
- Purple design adds to her uniqueness.
Lumpy Space Princess is both hilarious and unforgettable.
Ursula
Ursula is Disney’s iconic purple sea witch, blending menace with charisma.
- Famous for her dramatic song.
- Known for manipulation and power.
- Purple skin enhances her magical aura.
Ursula remains one of Disney’s greatest villains.
Yzma
Yzma is the stylish, eccentric purple villainess with a love for schemes.
- Known for her sharp wit.
- Often paired comically with Kronk.
- Purple gowns make her visually striking.
Yzma’s over-the-top villainy makes her hilarious and iconic.
Malva
Malva is a member of the Elite Four with a purple-themed aesthetic.
- Fiery personality with a confident edge.
- Known for her strength as a Pokémon trainer.
- Purple tones highlight her unique style.
Malva is a strong female character in the Pokémon world.
Haiku (The Loud House)
Haiku is a goth-styled character with a purple vibe from The Loud House.
- Quiet, poetic, and mysterious.
- Strong purple-goth look.
- Represents creativity and uniqueness.
Haiku adds depth and variety to the show’s cast.
Iris (LOL Surprise Dolls animated series)
Iris brings purple flair to the LOL Surprise universe.
- Known for her stylish purple hair.
- Playful and trendy personality.
- Embodies fashion and creativity.
Iris adds glam and charm to animated fun.
Shy Violet (Rainbow Brite)
Shy Violet is a soft-spoken yet smart character with a purple theme.
- Known for her intelligence.
- Gentle and caring personality.
- Purple design matches her sweet nature.
Shy Violet is a classic example of brains and heart.
Violetta (Winx Club)
Violetta is one of the purple fairies from Winx Club.
- Magical, elegant, and strong.
- Recognizable by her purple wings and attire.
- Represents creativity and enchantment.
Violetta shines as a magical purple character.
Raven (Teen Titans)
Raven is the mysterious, purple-cloaked Teen Titan with dark powers.
- Master of mystical arts.
- Calm, witty, and sarcastic.
- Purple aura enhances her gothic style.
Raven is one of the most beloved purple heroines.
Hitomi (Escaflowne)
Hitomi Kanzaki is a purple-uniformed schoolgirl turned heroine.
- Gifted with psychic powers.
- Strong sense of duty.
- Purple tones highlight her uniqueness.
Hitomi is both mystical and brave in her journey.
Hela (Thor: Ragnarok animated)
Hela, in animated adaptations, often carries purple tones in her design.
- Goddess of Death, powerful and fierce.
- Known for her dramatic flair.
- Purple adds to her ominous presence.
Hela’s strength and design cement her as a standout villain.
Mama Odie (The Princess and the Frog)
Mama Odie is the eccentric voodoo priestess with touches of purple in her gowns.
- Wise, funny, and playful.
- Offers guidance to Tiana and Naveen.
- Purple outfits enhance her mystical charm.
Mama Odie is a wise, unforgettable mentor.
Lydia Deetz (Beetlejuice animated series)
Lydia is the purple-clad goth girl from Beetlejuice.
- Creative and artistic.
- Famous for her friendship with Beetlejuice.
- Purple outfits highlight her gothic style.
Lydia’s quirky charm makes her an animated classic.
Wanda (The Fairly OddParents)
Wanda is Timmy’s fairy godparent, often depicted with purple hair.
- Smart, practical, and caring.
- Balances Cosmo’s silliness with wisdom.
- Purple highlights her magical look.
Wanda remains one of Nickelodeon’s most beloved fairies.
Camilla (Sofia the First)
Camilla is a minor character in Sofia the First with a signature purple dress.
- Elegant and poised.
- Known for her kindness.
- Purple outfit symbolizes royalty.
Camilla adds charm and grace to Disney’s royal lineup.
Malva
In Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures, Malva is styled with purple outfits and flair.
- Trendy and stylish.
- Embodies creativity and individuality.
- Purple enhances her fashionable vibe.
Malva is another example of purple elegance in animation.
Channel-Wise Categorization of Purple Cartoon Characters
- Cartoon Network: Amethyst (Steven Universe)
- Nickelodeon: Donatello (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)
- Disney: Randall Boggs (Monsters, Inc.)
- PBS Kids: Barney (Barney & Friends)
- Cartoon Network/Warner Bros: Lumpy Space Princess (Adventure Time)
Turn your childhood favorite imagination into reality with a random fictional character generator. This will help you bring your dream friends to life.
Words to Conclude
Purple cartoon characters have always stood out for their charm, creativity, and unforgettable looks. So from heroes to villains, they’ve added color and personality to our childhood memories. These characters remain timeless icons, continuing to inspire and entertain every generation.
FAQs
Who are some famous female purple cartoon characters?
Some popular female purple characters include Amethyst, Lumpy Space Princess, Ursula, and Twilight Sparkle.
Who are the well-known male purple cartoon characters?
Barney the Dinosaur, Donatello, Randall Boggs, and Grimace are among the most recognizable purple male characters.
Which characters are considered female purple icons?
Ursula, Amethyst, Twilight Sparkle, and Maleficent (known for her purple attire) are some standout purple female icons.
Which purple cartoon character has a big head?
Barney the Dinosaur and Grimace are both known for their large purple heads and playful personalities.
What purple cartoon characters belong to Cartoon Network?
Cartoon Network features Amethyst from Steven Universe and Lumpy Space Princess from Adventure Time.
Which purple cartoon character is a dinosaur?
Barney the Dinosaur is the most iconic purple dinosaur character, loved by children worldwide.
What famous characters are purple?
Barney, Ursula, Grimace, Amethyst, Donatello, and Lumpy Space Princess are among the most famous purple characters in cartoons and media.
What cartoon character is purple and most recognizable?
Barney the Dinosaur is often considered the most recognizable purple cartoon character.
Which Disney character wears purple?
Ursula from The Little Mermaid and Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty are Disney’s most iconic purple-wearing characters.
What is the name of the purple character people often refer to?
When people mention “the purple character,” they usually mean Barney the Dinosaur.
What are some famous 90s purple cartoon characters?
Some famous 90s characters included Tinky Winky and Dizzy Devil.