Crying cartoon characters have a way of pulling at your heartstrings, don’t they? Whether it’s a tearful goodbye, a broken toy, or a hilariously over-the-top meltdown, these moments bring emotions to life like nothing else. You’ve probably found yourself laughing, tearing up, or even nodding in understanding as these animated characters pour their hearts out.
But why do they affect you so deeply? From classic shows to modern favorites, these emotional moments go beyond just entertainment—they connect with you on a personal level. Let’s dive into the world of crying cartoon characters and uncover what makes their tears so unforgettable!
1. Charlie Brown (Peanuts)
Charlie Brown is the epitome of lovable, relatable sadness. With his round head, striped shirt, and perpetually sad expression, this little guy has an unmatched way of turning the smallest disappointments into full-on emotional breakdowns. From failed kite-flying attempts to heartbreak over the football, Charlie Brown’s tears are always accompanied by his trademark sigh, making us all empathize with his never-ending quest for happiness.
Why he’s iconic: His vulnerability and optimism, despite constant setbacks, made him a symbol for anyone who’s ever faced disappointment. Charlie Brown remains an emotional anchor for generations, showing that even the saddest moments are part of growing up.
2. Sadness (Inside Out)
Sadness might be a literal emotion in Inside Out, but she sure made an impression on audiences. With her oversized glasses, blue body, and perpetually downcast demeanor, Sadness is the embodiment of melancholy. She struggles to fit in with the more upbeat emotions, but as the film progresses, we learn how vital she is to Riley emotional growth.
Why she’s iconic: Sadness reminds us that it’s okay to feel sad sometimes. Her journey is one of self-acceptance and the realization that all emotions—both happy and sad—are necessary for a healthy life.
3. Bambi (Bambi)
Bambi is one of the most heart-wrenching characters of all time, and his tears hit us like a ton of bricks. With big eyes and an innocent face, Bambi cry after the loss of his mother is one of the most unforgettable moments in animated film. His adorable features only heighten the emotional weight of his sorrow.
Why he’s iconic: Bambi grief symbolizes the loss of innocence, and even decades later, it continues to bring tears to our eyes. He remains one of Disney most emotional characters, showing how loss and resilience shape who we become.
4. Dumbo (Dumbo)
Dumbo, the gentle elephant with the big ears, captures hearts in the most tender way possible. His tears in the movie, especially when he’s separated from his mother, resonate deeply with anyone who’s ever felt alone or misunderstood. Dumbo oversized ears are symbolic of his uniqueness, and his emotional journey shows that even those who seem different have greatness within.
Why he’s iconic: Dumbo perseverance through his tears teaches us that courage comes in all forms, and sometimes, the ones who are different are the ones who shine the brightest.
5. Simba (The Lion King)
Simba tears, particularly during the iconic “Circle of Life” moment after the death of Mufasa, are unforgettable. With his big, wide eyes and soft fur, Simba emotional growth mirrors the natural progression from child to adult. His tears capture the pain of loss, and his triumph shows the power of healing.
Why he’s iconic: Simba cry is one of the most iconic in Disney history, symbolizing the difficult journey of growing up and accepting responsibility. His story continues to inspire us to face challenges head-on, no matter how overwhelming they may seem.
6. Tommy Pickles (Rugrats)
Tommy, the fearless leader of the Rugrats, is no stranger to shedding a few tears. His big eyes, round face, and adventurous spirit make his moments of sadness particularly heartwarming. Whether it’s a squabble with his friends or a scare involving his toy dinosaur, Tommy tears often come with a lesson about friendship and courage.
Why he’s iconic: Tommy vulnerability, despite being the brave one of the group, makes him a timeless character. His emotional moments remind us that being strong doesn’t mean we don’t feel deeply.
7. Lumpy (Adventure Time)
Lumpy Space Princess, with her lumpy, purple, floating form, might seem like the epitome of tough, but don’t let that fool you. This character is known for her dramatic flair and sarcastic wit, often paired with a good cry or two. Her tears are always bigger than her attitude, adding layers to her quirky personality.
Why she’s iconic: Lumpy Space Princess shows that even the toughest characters have their moments of vulnerability. Her emotional outbursts, although hilarious, remind us that it’s okay to let our feelings out.
8. Winnie the Pooh (Winnie the Pooh)
Winnie the Pooh is the cuddly bear we all know and love, but he’s no stranger to shedding a tear. Whether it’s worrying over honey, his friends, or simply feeling down, Pooh big, round eyes express deep emotion. His kind heart and simple wisdom bring comfort to those who may feel a little lonely or sad.
Why he’s iconic: Pooh teaches us that sometimes, the best way to deal with sadness is to share it with others. His tearful moments are always met with kindness, showing the importance of compassion in the face of challenges.
9. Elsa (Frozen)
Frozen Elsa is a character who struggles with controlling her emotions, and her famous “Let It Go” moment comes after an emotional outburst. She sheds tears not only because of her powers but also because of the weight of her responsibilities. Her tears speak of the isolation she feels, and her journey to self-acceptance is both empowering and relatable.
Why she’s iconic: Elsa cry represents the tension between hiding who we are and embracing our true selves. Her strength in overcoming emotional struggles made her a beacon for many, especially those dealing with feelings of isolation.
10. Marceline (Adventure Time)
Marceline, the punk-rock vampire queen, is known for her cool, edgy persona, but she’s also one of the most emotionally complex characters in Adventure Time. Her moments of sadness—especially regarding her troubled relationship with her father—show a side of her that fans adore. She may be tough, but her emotional depth gives her character incredible richness.
Why she’s iconic: Marceline is a reminder that even the coolest characters have layers. Her emotional moments are heartfelt, showing that it’s okay to have a little sadness even if you’re the “cool” one in the room.
11. Pooh Friend, Eeyore (Winnie the Pooh)
Eeyore, the donkey with a cloud of gloom always hanging over him, is the embodiment of melancholy. His sad-sack nature makes him the perfect contrast to the sunny disposition of his friends. Whether it’s raining or simply another day in the Hundred Acre Wood, Eeyore tears are always just a little more dramatic than anyone else’s.
Why he’s iconic: Eeyore teaches us that it’s okay to feel sad and that true friends will accept you no matter what. His quirky, endearing sadness makes him a beloved character who we can’t help but root for.
12. Sad Sack (Sad Sack)
Sad Sack might not be as famous as some others, but his tears are legendary in the world of animated characters. A constant figure of misfortune, his tear-filled moments often highlight his unlucky streak and relatable clumsiness. His big eyes and droopy expression make him a lovable, albeit perpetually sad, character.
Why he’s iconic: Sad Sack reminds us that sometimes, life just doesn’t go our way—but even then, we can still find moments of joy and laughter.
13. Tom (Tom and Jerry)
Tom, the long-suffering cat in Tom and Jerry, is often on the receiving end of hilarious (and sometimes painful) situations that make him cry. His exaggerated expressions of sadness, often after being outwitted by Jerry, add to his comedic charm.
Why he’s iconic: Tom ability to express his emotional range—from frustration to sadness—without uttering a word is a testament to the timeless humor and appeal of Tom and Jerry.
14. Ash Ketchum (Pokémon)
Ash Ketchum’s tears are as iconic as his adventures. From the emotional goodbye to his Pokémon companions to the intense moments of victory, Ash crying scenes have left an impact on many viewers who grew up with the franchise.
Why he’s iconic: Ash tears signify growth, friendship, and the bittersweet nature of his journey. His emotional moments make him a character we’ve all cheered for and cried with.
15. Bugs Bunny (Looney Tunes)
Bugs Bunny is the last person you’d expect to see crying, but even this witty, cheeky rabbit has his moments of emotional vulnerability. Whether it’s a brief tear or a dramatic breakdown, Bugs’ tears are always juxtaposed with his legendary sarcastic humor.
Why he’s iconic: Bugs Bunny rare emotional outbursts are always memorable because they break the mold of his tough-guy persona. They remind us that even the coolest characters can have a soft side.
Commemorate Your Fandom with Customizable Merchandise!
Feeling nostalgic? Why not take a piece of your favorite crying cartoon characters with you wherever you go? Customizable products like keychains, enamel pins, or patches make for perfect gifts or personal keepsakes. Imagine a Tommy Pickles keychain hanging from your bag, or a Sadness enamel pin pinned proudly on your jacket.
These items are not just fun—they’re a way to carry a bit of
that childhood magic with you every day. Whether you’re gifting a friend who’s a lifelong fan of Peanuts or celebrating your love for The Lion King, custom merchandise is a special way to commemorate these unforgettable emotional moments. So why not celebrate your favorite crying character in style?
Ember Clark is an expert blogger passionate about cartoons, sharing captivating insights, trends, and stories that bring animation to life for fans worldwide.