Black representation in media has been a topic of discussion for many years. Here are 10 iconic examples in American cartoons.
Fillmore and Penny Proud left a lasting impact in the early 2000s. Image Source: Disney
After showing you 10 iconic Black anime characters, it’s time to check out how American cartoons handle PoC representation. Since Western societies tend to be more multicultural, it’s no surprise that we see a wider mix of ethnicities in entertainment and media. Here are 10 great examples!
Fillmore!
Genre: Comedy / Crime | Created by: Scott M. Gimple | Original Run: 2002 - 2004
The show Fillmore! is a legendary kids' crime series that even makes adults smile. Inspired by classic police dramas like Law & Order, it follows the “police” work of the Security Team at an American middle school.
The main protagonist is the titular Cornelius Fillmore, a Black boy and former troublemaker who has turned over a new leaf. Alongside his partner, Ingrid Third, he keeps the school in check. Fillmore is smart, confident, and charismatic, with a surprisingly deep backstory for a kids' show.
Static Shock
Genre: Superhero | Based on Static by: Dwayne McDuffie | Original Run: 2000 - 2004
The cartoon Static Shock is based on the Milestone/DC comic Static. The story follows Virgil Hawkins, a Black teenager who gains electromagnetic superpowers after an accident involving experimental gases – definitely one of the better side effects.
Under the name Static, he uses his new abilities to fight crime in his hometown. What makes the show stand out isn’t just the portrayal of PoC characters, but also how it tackles serious topics like racism, gang violence, domestic abuse, and gun violence in a way that’s accessible for kids.
The Proud Family
Genre: Coming of Age / Comedy| Created by: Bruce W. Smith | Original Run: 2001 - 2005
The Proud Family was one of the first Disney animated series with a predominantly Black main cast. The show centers around 14-year-old Penny Proud as she navigates the challenges of growing up. Her parents, Oscar and Trudy Proud, her twin siblings, BeBe and CeCe, and her eccentric grandmother, Suga Mama, bring plenty of humor and heartfelt moments.
Beyond showcasing Black culture, holidays, and music, the series also tackled social issues like racism, gender roles, and body image. Bonus points for cultural icon status go to guest appearances by Mariah Carey, Kobe Bryant, and the legendary Destiny’s Child theme song.
Invincible Fight Girl
Genre: Action / Comedy | Created by: Juston Gordon-Montgomery | Original Run: since 2024
Our latest entry follows the dream of Andy Smith, a Black girl striving to become the greatest pro wrestler in the world. You go, girl! In the world of Invincible Fight Girl, that’s a pretty ambitious goal – because here, almost everyone is a wrestler. Luckily, Andy has the support of her aunt, Quesa "Aunt P" Poblana, a retired wrestling champion.
The series isn’t just inspired by WWE but also by anime like Dragon Ball Z and One Piece. So, expect a mix of stylishly choreographed fight sequences and a thoughtful take on themes like independence, acceptance, and strength.
The Boondocks
Genre: Action / Sitcom | Created by: Aaron McGruder | Original Run: 2005 - 2014
The Boondocks is the animated adaptation of Aaron McGruder's comic of the same name, with both versions known for their sharp humor and social commentary.
The story follows Black brothers Huey and Riley Freeman, who move to a predominantly white suburb with their grandfather. There, they face cultural conflicts, racism, and the absurdity of modern society. Huey and Riley take on opposite roles – while 10-year-old Huey is surprisingly politically aware, 8-year-old Riley embraces the life of a wannabe gangster.
This show also features plenty of celebrity guest appearances, including Snoop Dogg, Samuel L. Jackson, and Busta Rhymes.
Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur
Genre: Superhero / Comedy | Based on Moon Girl by: Brandon Montclare | Original Run: 2023
Based on the Marvel character of the same name, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur follows the story of Lunella Lafayette, a 13-year-old genius. When she accidentally opens a portal, she brings a giant red dinosaur to New York. I hate when that happens. But she makes the best of it, teaming up with him to form an unstoppable superhero duo.
Lunella is one of the first young Black female superheroes to lead her own series, and she comes with a style all her own. The animation is dynamic, vibrant, and heavily influenced by hip-hop, street art, and New York City culture.
Iyanu: Child of Wonder
Genre: Superhero | Created by: Roye Okupe | Original Run: Upcoming in April 2025
Iyanu: Child of Wonder is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Roye Okupe. It follows the story of Iyanu, an orphan girl living in the mystical land of Yorubaland, which is inspired by Nigerian culture and mythology.
Iyanu studies the stories and ancient arts of this land and one day discovers her divine powers. Together with her friends Biyi and Toye, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about the evil lurking in Yorubaland. Along the way, she not only unravels the secrets of the world but also rediscovers her own identity.
Men in Black: The Series
Genre: SciFi / Action | Based on The Men in Black by: Lowell Cunningham | Original Run: 1997 - 2001
Unsurprisingly, the animated series is based on the legendary 1997 action film Men in Black. Much like the movie, the story follows Agents Jay and Kay, who work for the top-secret government organization of the same name. Their mission: monitoring aliens on Earth, protecting peaceful ones, and eliminating threats.
Jay, portrayed by Will Smith in the film, is a confident character who brings a fresh, energetic dynamic to the otherwise serious MIB team. At the same time, he stands out for his intelligence and strong moral compass.
Craig of the Creek
Genre: Slice of Life | Created by: Matt Burnett / Ben Levin | Original Run: 2018 - 2025
In Craig of the Creek, we follow Craig Williams, a Black boy who, along with his friends Kelsey and JP, explores the Creek – a vast, forest-like area that becomes a world of its own, where kids create and rule over their own little kingdoms.
Craig naturally takes on the role of a leader and problem solver. He is intelligent and serves as the cartographer, expanding the map of the Creek. Beyond him, the show features numerous other PoC characters and LGBTQ+ representation, including lesbian and non-binary characters.
Class of 3000
Genre: Musical / Comedy | Created by: André 3000 / Thomas W. Lynch | Original Run: 2006 - 2008
In Class of 3000 – co-created by OutKast singer Andre 3000 – music, creativity, and Black culture take center stage.
The series follows Sunny Bridges, a famous but disillusioned Black musician who walks away from his career to become a music teacher at an art school. His students are just as talented as they are chaotic, leading to plenty of interesting conflicts. Each episode features an original song composed by Andre 3000, which helps shape the story and characters.
The show explores a variety of musical genres, from funk and jazz to hip-hop, making Class of 3000 a true standout in the world of animated series with a strong Black lead character.
Honorable Mention
Black Dynamite
Genre: Action / Comedy / Blaxploitation | Based on Black Dynamite by: Michael Jai White | Original Run: 2012 - 2015
The animated series Black Dynamite is based on the 2009 action film of the same name, which serves as a satirical homage to 1970s Blaxploitation films.
Black Dynamite is a tough-as-nails ex-CIA agent who fights his way through the ‘70s as a street warrior, ladies' man, and civil rights activist. Alongside his team, he takes on corrupt politicians, gangsters, and wild government conspiracies. The series goes all out – featuring over-the-top fight scenes, absurd villains, and bold political parodies. This makes Black Dynamite one of the most distinctive and entertaining Black animated series of all time.
What do you think? Have you seen them all? Did we forget any of your favorites? Let us know your thoughts and what we should cover next.