Old man cartoon characters have been a mainstay in animated media, showcasing a wide range of personalities from the wise mentor to the eccentric inventor, often exuding an endearing sense of charm and humor. Their representations serve as essential components of the storytelling process, imparting wisdom, guiding younger characters, or providing comedic relief.

These characters are often brimming with experiences and stories, their age giving them a depth and complexity that enhances the narrative. They can be powerful figures, acting as mentors, or they can inject humor through their quirky, out-of-touch mannerisms.

In this article, we celebrate these iconic old man characters in the world of cartoons. We’ll explore their roles, their most memorable moments, and their impact on audiences across the globe.

Carl Fredricksen (Up)

Carl Fredricksen is a fictional character from the 2009 Pixar film Up. He is an elderly man who is determined to fulfill his lifelong dream of traveling to South America by tying thousands of helium balloons to his house and flying it there. Carl is a grumpy and stubborn man, but he has a kind heart and a deep love for his late wife, Ellie. He is voiced by actor Ed Asner. The character was created by director Pete Docter and co-writer Bob Peterson. Up was released on May 29, 2009, and received critical acclaim for its emotional storytelling and stunning animation.

Master Roshi (Dragon Ball)

Master Roshi is a fictional character from the popular Japanese manga and anime series, Dragon Ball. He was created by Akira Toriyama and first appeared in the manga in 1984. Master Roshi is a wise and powerful martial arts master who trained many of the series’ main characters, including Goku and Krillin. Despite his advanced age, he is still a formidable fighter and possesses incredible strength and speed. He is also known for his perverted tendencies and love of women, often using his “perverted techniques” in battle. Master Roshi is a beloved character in the Dragon Ball franchise and has become an iconic figure in anime and manga culture.

Grandpa Max Tennyson (Ben 10)

Grandpa Max Tennyson is a beloved character from the popular animated television series, Ben 10. Created by Man of Action Studios, Grandpa Max is a retired plumber who serves as a mentor and father figure to his grandson, Ben Tennyson. He is a wise and experienced man who always has a plan, and his calm demeanor and quick thinking have saved the day on numerous occasions. Grandpa Max is also a skilled fighter and has a vast knowledge of alien technology, which he uses to help Ben and his friends in their battles against evil. First introduced in 2005, Grandpa Max has become a fan favorite and an integral part of the Ben 10 franchise.

Hershel Greene (The Walking Dead)

Hershel Greene is a character from the popular TV series, The Walking Dead. He was created by Robert Kirkman and first appeared in the second season of the show in 2011. Hershel is a farmer and veterinarian who lives on a farm with his family and a group of survivors. He is a wise and compassionate man who often serves as a voice of reason and a moral compass for the group. Hershel is deeply religious and believes in the sanctity of life, even in a world overrun by zombies. He is a father figure to many of the characters and his death in season four was a major turning point for the show.

Professor Farnsworth (Futurama)

Professor Hubert J. Farnsworth is a fictional character from the animated television series Futurama. He was created by Matt Groening and David X. Cohen and first appeared in the pilot episode in 1999. Farnsworth is the founder and owner of Planet Express, a delivery company that operates in the 31st century. He is also a brilliant scientist, inventor, and professor at Mars University. Despite his intelligence, Farnsworth is often forgetful, absent-minded, and eccentric. He is known for his catchphrase “Good news, everyone!” which he uses to announce dangerous and often life-threatening missions to his employees. Farnsworth is voiced by Billy West and has become one of the most beloved characters in the Futurama universe.

Uncle Iroh (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

Uncle Iroh is a beloved character from the animated television series Avatar: The Last Airbender. He was created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko and first appeared in the show’s premiere episode in 2005. Iroh is a wise and kind-hearted retired general of the Fire Nation who serves as a mentor and father figure to the show’s protagonist, Aang. He is known for his love of tea, his musical talents, and his profound wisdom, which he imparts to Aang and other characters throughout the series. Iroh’s character arc is one of the most beloved in the show, as he transforms from a grieving and vengeful man to a wise and compassionate mentor.

Mr. Burns (The Simpsons)

Mr. Burns is a fictional character from the popular animated television series, The Simpsons. He was created by Matt Groening and first appeared in the show’s second season in 1990. Mr. Burns is the wealthy and eccentric owner of the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant, where Homer Simpson works. He is known for his evil and manipulative personality, often putting his own interests above those of others. Mr. Burns is also infamous for his catchphrase, “Excellent,” which he says while steepling his fingers. Despite his villainous tendencies, Mr. Burns has become a beloved character among fans of The Simpsons, and his antics continue to entertain audiences to this day.

Abe Simpson (The Simpsons)

Abe Simpson is a beloved character from the long-running animated sitcom, The Simpsons. He is the father of Homer Simpson and the grandfather of Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Abe is known for his grumpy demeanor, forgetfulness, and tendency to ramble on about his past experiences. He is a World War II veteran and often shares stories from his time in the military. Abe was created by Matt Groening and first appeared on The Simpsons in 1989. He has since become a fan favorite and has been featured in numerous episodes, often providing comedic relief with his quirky personality.

Stan Pines (Gravity Falls)

Stan Pines is a fictional character from the animated television series Gravity Falls. He was created by Alex Hirsch and first appeared in the pilot episode of the show in 2012. Stan is the great-uncle of the show’s main characters, Dipper and Mabel Pines, and is known for his gruff demeanor and shady business dealings. Despite his rough exterior, Stan has a soft spot for his family and will do anything to protect them. He is also a skilled con artist and runs the Mystery Shack, a tourist trap that specializes in fake paranormal attractions. Over the course of the series, Stan’s backstory and motivations are explored, revealing a complex and multifaceted character.

Mr. Herbert (Family Guy)

Mr. Herbert is a fictional character from the animated television series Family Guy. He is an elderly man who is known for his creepy and inappropriate behavior towards young boys, particularly his neighbor Chris Griffin. Mr. Herbert is often seen lurking around Chris’ house and trying to lure him into his home with promises of candy and toys. Despite his disturbing behavior, Mr. Herbert is portrayed as a sympathetic character who is lonely and yearns for companionship. He was created by Seth MacFarlane, the creator of Family Guy, and first appeared in the show’s second season in 2000.

Eustace Bagge (Courage the Cowardly Dog)

Eustace Bagge is a fictional character from the animated television series “Courage the Cowardly Dog.” He was created by John R. Dilworth and first appeared on the show in 1999. Eustace is a grumpy, selfish, and often abusive farmer who lives in the middle of nowhere with his wife, Muriel, and their dog, Courage. He is known for his catchphrase “Stupid dog!” which he often uses to insult Courage. Eustace is also obsessed with money and will do anything to get rich, even if it means putting his family and Courage in danger. Despite his flaws, Eustace is a complex character who adds depth and humor to the show.

Heihachi Edajima (Sakigake!! Otokojuku)

Heihachi Edajima is a fictional character from the manga and anime series Sakigake!! Otokojuku. He was created by Akira Miyashita and first appeared in 1985. Heihachi is the headmaster of Otokojuku, a school for delinquent boys. He is a strict disciplinarian who believes in tough love and physical punishment to mold his students into strong, honorable men. He is also a skilled martial artist and often demonstrates his abilities to his students. Despite his tough exterior, Heihachi cares deeply for his students and will go to great lengths to protect them. He is known for his iconic bald head and thick mustache.

King Bumi (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

King Bumi is a character from the animated television series Avatar: The Last Airbender. He is the eccentric and unpredictable ruler of the city of Omashu, known for his love of practical jokes and his mastery of earthbending. Despite his seemingly carefree attitude, King Bumi is a wise and powerful leader who is fiercely loyal to his people and will stop at nothing to protect them. He was created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, the co-creators of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and first appeared in the show’s first season in 2005. King Bumi quickly became a fan favorite due to his unique personality and memorable moments throughout the series.

Master Oogway (Kung Fu Panda)

Master Oogway is a wise and ancient tortoise who serves as a mentor and spiritual leader in the Kung Fu Panda franchise. He was created by DreamWorks Animation and first appeared in the 2008 film Kung Fu Panda. Master Oogway is known for his calm demeanor, profound wisdom, and mastery of martial arts. He is highly respected by all the characters in the franchise, including Po, the main protagonist. Master Oogway is often seen meditating or dispensing sage advice to those around him. He is a beloved character in the Kung Fu Panda universe and has become a fan favorite among audiences of all ages.

Pops (Regular Show)

Pops is a character from the animated television series Regular Show, created by J.G. Quintel. He first appeared in the show’s pilot episode in 2009 and quickly became a fan favorite. Pops is a humanoid lollipop who is always cheerful and optimistic, often to the point of being naive. He is also incredibly wealthy and owns the park where the show takes place. Despite his wealth, Pops is very humble and kind-hearted, always looking for ways to help his friends. He is known for his catchphrase “Good show!” and his love of tea parties. Pops is a beloved character who adds a unique and whimsical element to the show.

Slappy Squirrel (Animaniacs)

Slappy Squirrel is a character from the animated television series Animaniacs. She was created by Tom Ruegger and debuted in the show’s second season in 1993. Slappy is an elderly, cantankerous squirrel who is known for her sarcastic wit and her tendency to break the fourth wall. She is a former cartoon star who now lives in a tree with her nephew Skippy Squirrel. Slappy is often seen teaching Skippy life lessons and protecting him from danger. She is also known for her catchphrase, “Now that’s comedy!” Slappy Squirrel is a beloved character among Animaniacs fans and has become an iconic figure in the world of animation.

Porky Minch (EarthBound)

Porky Minch is a fictional character from the video game EarthBound, created by Japanese game designer Shigesato Itoi in 1994. Porky is a mischievous and selfish boy who becomes the main antagonist of the game. He is the son of a wealthy businessman and is initially a friend of the game’s protagonist, Ness. However, Porky’s jealousy and desire for power lead him to betray Ness and become a villain. He is known for his distinctive appearance, which includes a large, round head and a red and white striped shirt. Porky’s character has become a popular icon in the gaming community and has appeared in various other games and media.

Joseph Joestar (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)

Joseph Joestar is a fictional character from the popular manga and anime series, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. He was created by Japanese manga artist, Hirohiko Araki, and first appeared in the second part of the series, Battle Tendency, which was published in Weekly Shōnen Jump in 1987. Joseph is the grandson of the series’ first protagonist, Jonathan Joestar, and is known for his quick wit, cunning, and unpredictable nature. He is a skilled fighter and uses a unique fighting style that incorporates his Stand, Hermit Purple. Joseph is a fan favorite character and has appeared in multiple parts of the series, including Stardust Crusaders and Diamond is Unbreakable.

Scrooge McDuck (DuckTales)

Scrooge McDuck is a beloved character from the animated television series DuckTales. Created by Carl Barks in 1947, Scrooge is a wealthy and miserly Scottish duck who made his fortune through various business ventures and treasure hunting expeditions. Despite his wealth, Scrooge is known for his frugality and penny-pinching ways. He is also fiercely independent and self-reliant, often going on adventures with his grandnephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie. Scrooge’s character has become an iconic figure in popular culture, inspiring countless adaptations and merchandise. His enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of his adventurous spirit and quirky personality.

Papa Smurf (The Smurfs)

Papa Smurf is a wise and caring character from the popular children’s cartoon series, The Smurfs. Created by Belgian cartoonist Peyo in 1958, Papa Smurf is the leader of the Smurfs and is known for his signature red hat and bushy white beard. He is often seen as a father figure to the other Smurfs, offering guidance and advice when needed. Papa Smurf is also a skilled alchemist, using his knowledge of magic and potions to help his fellow Smurfs. Despite his age, Papa Smurf is still an active member of the Smurf community and is always willing to lend a helping hand.