Cartoon teenagers are Daria Morgendorffer, Doug Funnie, Kim Possible, Danny Phantom, Steven Universe, Luz Noceda, and characters from 6teen. These animated gems artfully capture the essence of growing up, tackling the trials and tribulations of adolescence with wit, humor, and a touch of drama.
From navigating the social labyrinth of high school to dealing with the dreaded pangs of first love, these cartoons offer a delightful yet thought-provoking escape from the realities of teenage life.
Teenage Angst and Adventure: The Best Cartoon Series Featuring Teenagers
Teenage cartoon characters capture the hearts and imaginations of viewers for generations by showcasing the relatable struggles, triumphs, and emotions of adolescence.
These characters offer young audiences a lens to explore complex themes such as friendship, identity, and self-discovery while entertaining them with engaging adventures and comedic antics.
Daria (1997-2002)
Enter the world of Daria Morgendorffer, a sarcastic and intelligent high school student with a knack for razor-sharp commentary. Created by Glenn Eichler and Susie Lewis, this iconic series is a spin-off of Beavis and Butt-Head that explores the ups and downs of teenage life in the fictional suburban town of Lawndale.
Daria’s deadpan humor and her relatable struggles with societal expectations and conformity make this animated series a beloved classic that resonates with teenagers and adults alike.
Beavis and Butt-Head (1993-1997, 2011, 2022)
Created by Mike Judge, Beavis, and Butt-Head is a satirical animated series that chronicles the misadventures of two socially awkward, heavy metal-loving teenagers.
Set in the fictional town of Highland, the show lampoons the absurdity of teenage life, with the titular characters often providing snarky commentary while watching music videos. Beavis and Butt-Head’s crude humor and social satire made it a controversial yet influential series that has left a lasting impact on the landscape of animated television.
Clone High (2002-2003, Upcoming Reboot)
Created by Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Bill Lawrence, Clone High is a satirical animated series in a high school populated by teenage clones of famous historical figures. The show uses its unique premise to poke fun at the stereotypes, clichés, and tropes commonly found in teen dramas.
With its witty writing and clever characterizations, Clone High offers a humorous and insightful look at the teenage experience through the lens of its iconic historical clones.
The Owl House (2020-present)
Created by Dana Terrace, The Owl House follows the adventures of Luz Noceda, a teenage girl who accidentally stumbles into a magical realm called the Boiling Isles. As Luz learns the art of witchcraft, she befriends an eclectic cast of characters and faces off against powerful adversaries.
The show explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the power of imagination, making it an engaging and thought-provoking addition to teenage cartoons.
Doug (1991-1994, 1996-1999)
Doug Funnie, the titular character of this beloved cartoon created by Jim Jinkins, takes us on a heartfelt journey through the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. With his vivid imagination, Doug navigates the complexities of teenage life, including making new friends, battling school bullies, and pining for his secret crush, Patti Mayonnaise.
Doug’s earnest reflections on friendship, self-esteem, and growing up strike a chord with audiences of all ages, making this cartoon a timeless favorite.
As Told by Ginger (2000-2006)
Created by Emily Kapnek, As Told by Ginger chronicles the life of Ginger Foutley, a kind-hearted and creative middle schooler who dreams of becoming a successful writer. The show delves into the emotional rollercoaster of teenage life, exploring themes like friendship, self-discovery, and the ever-elusive search for popularity.
Ginger’s relatable experiences and the show’s honest portrayal of adolescent struggles make As Told by Ginger an endearing and thought-provoking series.
The Life and Times of Tim (2008-2012)
Steve Dildarian created The Life and Times of Tim. This animated series provides a satirical perspective on the life of Tim, a hapless young man tackling the trials and tribulations of adulthood. Although not exclusively about teenagers, the show’s relatable humor and emphasis on the awkwardness of growing up make it enjoyable for audiences of all ages.
Featuring a distinctive animation style and deadpan humor, The Life and Times of Tim offers a quirky and engaging exploration of young adults’ challenges.
The Legend of Tarzan (2001-2003)
Edgar Rice Burroughs created Disney’s The Legend of Tarzan, and Walt Disney Television Animation developed it for television. This unique take on the challenges of adolescence centers on a teenage Tarzan in the heart of the African jungle. He actively navigates the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery while protecting his jungle home from various threats.
Boasting lush animation and captivating storylines, The Legend of Tarzan delivers an adventurous twist on the classic coming-of-age tale.
Kim Possible (2002-2007)
With the memorable tagline “Call me, beep me, if you wanna reach me,” Kim Possible, a creation of Bob Schooley and Mark McCorkle, provides an action-packed, humorous, and relatable glimpse into the life of a teenage crime-fighter. Juggling the demands of school and friendships and saving the world from evil villains, Kim Possible’s adventures highlight the strength, resilience, and determination of a young hero who tackles every challenge head-on.
The show skillfully blends engaging storylines, witty humor, and dynamic characters, creating a captivating experience for audiences of all ages. Additionally, Kim Possible is a powerful role model for young viewers, showcasing that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a supportive team of friends and family.
This beloved classic resonates with fans, demonstrating its lasting impact and timeless appeal.
The Spectacular Spider-Man (2008-2009)
Greg Weisman and Victor Cook developed The Spectacular Spider-Man, which presents a fresh take on the iconic superhero as he tackles the challenges of being both a high school student and a crime fighter.
The series explores the complexities of teenage life, addressing themes like friendship, love, and the struggle to balance responsibilities. The Spectacular Spider-Man delivers a web-slinging adventure through adolescence, featuring engaging storylines, relatable characters, and thrilling action sequences.
Steven Universe (2013-2020)
Rebecca Sugar created Steven Universe, which takes us on a whimsical journey through the life of Steven, a young boy who discovers he belongs to a team of magical guardians called the Crystal Gems. As Steven masters his powers, he tackles the challenges of friendship, love, and self-discovery in this coming-of-age tale.
Featuring heartwarming storylines, diverse characters, and captivating animation, Steven Universe has won over fans by showcasing the beauty and strength of embracing one’s true self.
Unsupervised (2012)
David Hornsby, Scott Marder, and Rob Rosell created Unsupervised, a short-lived animated series that chronicles the lives of two optimistic yet misguided teenagers, Gary and Joel. Set in a world with a notable absence of adults, the show humorously delves into the naïveté and resilience of its protagonists as they try to navigate life without proper guidance.
Unsupervised presents a satirical perspective on the challenges of adolescence, utilizing its unique premise to examine themes of friendship, self-discovery, and growing up.
Danny Phantom (2004-2007)
Created by Butch Hartman, Danny Phantom follows the supernatural adventures of Danny Fenton, a teenager who gains ghostly powers after an accident in his parents’ lab. As Danny battles evil spirits and navigates the complexities of high school, he learns valuable lessons about responsibility, friendship, and self-acceptance.
With its witty humor and engaging storylines, Danny Phantom offers a spirited take on the coming-of-age tale.
The Amazing World of Gumball (2011-2019)
This quirky and imaginative series, created by Ben Bocquelet, follows the antics of Gumball Watterson, a 12-year-old cat, and his adoptive brother, Darwin, a goldfish. Set in the fictional town of Elmore, The Amazing World of Gumball is a visual treat that explores the hilarious and sometimes absurd aspects of teenage life.
With its unique animation style and offbeat humor, the show has garnered a devoted fan base, making it a memorable addition to the pantheon of teenage cartoons.
Star vs. the Forces of Evil (2015-2019)
Created by Daron Nefcy, Star vs. the Forces of Evil introduces us to Star Butterfly, a magical princess from another dimension sent to Earth to live with the Diaz family. As she learns to harness her powers and adjust to life on Earth, Star forms a strong bond with her new friend, Marco.
The show tackles themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery, all while delivering a healthy dose of magical action and adventure. With its vibrant animation and engaging storylines, Star vs. the Forces of Evil is a delightful exploration of adolescence.
Gravity Falls (2012-2016)
Created by Alex Hirsch, Gravity Falls tells the story of twins Dipper and Mabel Pines as they spend the summer with their great-uncle Stan in the mysterious town of Gravity Falls.
As the siblings unravel the town’s supernatural secrets, they face the challenges of growing up, including forming new friendships and dealing with first crushes. With its blend of humor, mystery, and heart, Gravity Falls has become a beloved favorite among audiences of all ages.
Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005-2008)
Created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, Avatar: The Last Airbender invites viewers to explore a fantastical world where elemental magic reigns supreme. Centered around Aang, a young Airbender tasked with restoring balance to the world, the show delves into friendship, responsibility, and self-discovery themes.
Alongside a diverse cast of teenage characters, Aang embarks on an epic journey that resonates with audiences of all ages. Avatar: The Last Airbender remains a beloved classic with its rich storytelling and stunning animation.
Big Mouth (2017-present)
Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett created Big Mouth. This popular animated series boldly and unfiltered explores the experiences of teenage cartoon characters navigating the tumultuous and often confusing world of puberty and adolescence.
The show centers around best friends Nick Birch and Andrew Glouberman, diving into their journey of self-discovery, friendships, and the ups and downs of growing up.
Big Mouth distinguishes itself from other animated shows about teenagers with its candid portrayal of puberty, featuring personified Hormone Monsters that represent the characters’ inner thoughts and desires. The series addresses various topics, from body image and self-esteem to relationships and identity, often employing humor to investigate these sensitive subjects.
The diverse and relatable cast of characters allows viewers to see themselves in various situations, fostering empathy and understanding. Big Mouth’s honest depiction of adolescence, combined with its unique blend of wit and raunchy humor, resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a standout series.
My Life as a Teenage Robot (2003-2009)
In Rob Renzetti’s animated series My Life as a Teenage Robot, viewers are introduced to the unique character XJ-9, Jenny Wakeman. Jenny is a crime-fighting robot ingeniously designed with the emotions and spirit of a teenage girl. As she tackles the trials and tribulations of high school, Jenny grapples with the desire to fit in and experience a “normal” teenage life, all while balancing her superhero responsibilities.
The show’s unique blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments make My Life as a Teenage Robot a quirky, endearing, relatable exploration of adolescence. Through Jenny’s eyes, viewers are given a fresh perspective on common teenage experiences such as friendship, self-discovery, and the struggle for acceptance.
The series also delves into the complexities of identity as Jenny tries to find her place in the world, caught between her robotic origins and human emotions.
My Life as a Teenage Robot features a diverse and engaging cast of characters who support and challenge Jenny on her journey. These characters and the show’s inventive storytelling create a captivating and entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.
6teen (2004-2010)
Jennifer Pertsch and Tom McGillis created the animated series 6teen, which delves into the lives of six teenagers as they navigate the highs and lows of adolescence while working at their local shopping mall.
The show boasts a diverse cast of relatable characters with unique quirks and personalities that come together to form a close-knit group of friends. Combined with a healthy dose of humor, 6teen offers a realistic and entertaining portrayal of the joys, challenges, and unforgettable moments that accompany the teenage years.
The series thoughtfully touches on various themes, such as friendship, love, self-discovery, and the quest for independence, making it relatable and appealing to many viewers. Each episode tackles everyday issues teenagers face, from the pressures of school and work to the complexities of relationships and family dynamics.
This honest and engaging representation of the rollercoaster of adolescence makes 6teen a must-watch for anyone who has ever experienced or is currently navigating these formative years.
With its captivating storytelling and a keen understanding of the teenage experience, 6teen has earned a special place in the hearts of its viewers.
Cartoon Characters That Are Teenagers With Age
Be aware that some characters’ ages may change or vary slightly based on the specific adaptation or comic book series. Additionally, the birthdays of certain characters may be unavailable or not mentioned in their respective series.
Some characters start at 12 and, over the season, are then 17, 18, or 19 – I tried to take the average if they aged in the show unless the studio mentioned otherwise.
- Korra – 17 years old – The Legend of Korra – Born 153 AG (After Genocide)
- Steven Universe – 14 years old – Steven Universe – Born August 15th
- Dipper Pines – 12 years old – Gravity Falls – Born August 31st
- Mabel Pines – 12 years old – Gravity Falls – Born August 31st
- Star Butterfly – 14 years old – Star vs. the Forces of Evil – Born November 28th
- Marco Diaz – 14 years old – Star vs. the Forces of Evil – Born November 28th
- Kim Possible – 16 years old – Kim Possible – Born October 2nd
- Ron Stoppable – 16 years old – Kim Possible – Born October 1st
- Danny Fenton / Danny Phantom – 14 years old – Danny Phantom – Born June 8th
- Jenny Wakeman / XJ-9 – equivalent to a 16-year-old human – My Life as a Teenage Robot – Activated August 1st
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (4 characters) – 15 years old – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles a. Leonardo b. Donatello c. Raphael d. Michelangelo
- Peter Parker / Spider-Man – 16 years old – The Spectacular Spider-Man – Born October 14th
- Robin / Tim Drake – 14 years old – Young Justice – Born July 19th
- Terra Markov / Terra – 16 years old – Teen Titans – Birthday not available
- Morty Smith – 14 years old – Rick and Morty – Birthday not available
- Summer Smith – 17 years old – Rick and Morty – Birthday not available
- Finn the Human – 17 years old – Adventure Time – Born March 14th
- Jake Long – 14 years old – American Dragon: Jake Long – Birthday not available
- Raven Roth / Raven – 16 years old – Teen Titans – Birthday not available
- Enid – 16 years old – OK K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes – Birthday not available
- Ben Tennyson – 15 years old – Ben 10 – Birthday not available
- Beast Boy / Garfield Logan – 15 years old – Teen Titans – Birthday not available
- Starfire / Koriand’r – 16 years old – Teen Titans – Birthday not available
- Cyborg / Victor Stone – 17 years old – Teen Titans – Birthday not available
- Kid Flash / Wally West – 15 years old – Young Justice – Birthday not available
- Miss Martian / M’gann M’orzz – 16 years old (human age equivalent) – Young Justice – Birthday not available
- Superboy / Conner Kent – 16 years old – Young Justice – Birthday not available
- Anne Boonchuy – 13 years old – Amphibia – Birthday not available
- Luz Noceda – 14 years old – The Owl House – Birthday not available
- Ulrich Stern – 14 years old – Code Lyoko – Birthday not available