The Hilariously Overlooked Cartoon Characters That Will Leave You in Stitches

Despite their limited screen time, the supporting characters in cartoon TV comedies can often be more hilarious than the main animated characters. Unlike live-action shows, animated comedies are not restricted by the same limitations. One major advantage is that voice acting allows for a larger cast, resulting in a greater number of recurring characters who sometimes outshine the series' protagonists. While it is true that animated comedies sometimes produce lackluster episodes focused on these side characters, the overall benefits of having a diverse cast outweigh the drawbacks. These side characters, whether they are one-time gag characters with untapped potential or recurring supporting stars who never receive their own storyline, enhance the enjoyment of their respective shows.

10 Hans Moleman (The Simpsons)

Most estimates place the number of named characters who have appeared on The Simpsons in the thousands. Standing out in a field that crowded can be challenging, but Hans Moleman managed to shine despite his continuous unfortunate events. While many of The Simpsons episodes cater to a younger audience, Hans Moleman became an iconic character precisely because of his numerous calamities. The elderly man, withered and weary, experienced some of the most ludicrous accidents in the show's extensive history. Remarkably, Moleman always managed to bounce back, defying the odds.

9 Evil Monkey (Family Guy)

The Evil Monkey was a prominent character in the early seasons of Family Guy, often appearing from Chris's closet and accusingly pointing a finger at him. Over time, the Evil Monkey evolved from a simple comedic interlude to a character with his own story arc. Despite the potential for the show to undermine his appeal, the Evil Monkey's enigmatic narrative ensured his status as a beloved fan-favorite. While Family Guy may not have the extensive cast of characters that The Simpsons does, the enduring popularity of the Evil Monkey illustrates the show's ability to create memorable and enduring characters.

8 Steve "That Guy" Castle (Futurama)

As Futurama’s return draws closer, viewers can anticipate the reappearance of numerous beloved characters in the satirical sci-fi series. However, it is doubtful that Steve “That Guy” Castle will make a comeback. Known for embodying the deceitful and stereotypical ‘80s business person, Steve Castle opted for cryogenic freezing due to a severe case of "boneitis." After being thawed out, he almost succeeded in annihilating Planet Express with his relentless greed. Unfortunately, his demise was ultimately caused by his own boneitis, making a revival highly improbable.

7 Bob Todd (American Dad)

One of the standout moments in American Dad is its Christmas episodes, and season 6, episode 8, titled "For Whom the Sleigh Bell Tolls," truly embodies the series' brilliance. In this thrilling installment, Santa Claus seeks revenge on the Smith family after Steve accidentally shoots him. However, it is a captivating subplot that introduces one of the show's most memorable secondary characters. Enter Bob Todd, an eccentric rural dweller who teaches Roger the art of creating moonshine. To top it off, Bob fearlessly acknowledges Roger's extraterrestrial origins, leading to one of the show's most uproarious instances of laughter.

6 Mr. Nimbus (Rick and Morty)

While Rick and Morty season 7 is set to recast its lead characters, the series can take solace in retaining one of its most compelling villains. First introduced in season 5, episode 1, titled "Mort Dinner Rick Andre," Mr. Nimbus served as Rick Sanchez's eccentric archenemy. Showcasing an outrageously flamboyant and delightfully self-absorbed nature, Mr. Nimbus had minimal impact on the overall plot of his debut appearance. Nonetheless, this aligns perfectly with his unpredictable energy, heightening anticipation for his eventual return as viewers still possess limited knowledge about him.

5 Mary Beth (Bojack Horseman)

Bojack Horseman, the hit Netflix series, featured a wide array of side characters that brought endless laughs. One standout amongst them was Vincent Adultman, Princess Carolyn's quirky boyfriend. However, the true gem of the show's side characters was Mary Beth, the wife of Princess Carolyn's therapist who rarely made an appearance. Known for her knack of speaking in intricate tongue twisters, Mary Beth's lines served as a test of voice actor Wanda Sykes' exceptional talent. Needless to say, this clever strategy paid off as Mary Beth became a source of much-needed comic relief in an otherwise intense storyline.

4 Vicky (Big Mouth)

While Big Mouth has had some of the worst cartoon couples in television history, few of the show's pairings are as uncomfortable as Andrew and his cousin Cherry. However, Cherry was not the side character from this coming-of-age Netflix comedy who stood out the most. That honor instead goes to Vicky, a friend of Andrew's cousin who challenged Nick to an increasingly disturbing series of inappropriate dares. Voiced by Jenny Slate with a disturbingly energetic performance, Vicky was a character who left a lasting impact.

3 The Hardly Boys (South Park)

The Hardy Boys were hilariously parodied in South Park, with the boy detectives being more preoccupied with their inappropriate wordplay than actually solving mysteries. Although South Park's more absurd humor can be annoying at times, there was something oddly brilliant about these supporting characters. In season 10, episode 9 of South Park, an entire subplot was developed around their ridiculous innuendos, taking the joke to new heights of hilarity. This ongoing gag became one of the show's most beloved and enduring jokes.

2 The Talking Toilet (Bob’s Burgers)

Bob’s Burgers season 3, episode 15, titled “O.T: The Outside Toilet,” introduced viewers to an extraordinary talking toilet prototype that the Belcher children affectionately compared to E.T. Expertly voiced by the uncredited Jon Hamm, O.T. served as a remarkable creation that demonstrated Bob’s Burgers' unique identity separate from The Simpsons. Gene, in particular, developed a deep attachment to this perplexing yet partially functional prototype. Unfortunately, O.T. never made another appearance on the show, which may have been a wise decision as subsequent attempts to capture the magic of this episode could have proved challenging.

1 Hank Scorpio (The Simpsons)

Hank Scorpio stands as a prime illustration of a supporting character who far surpassed their initial role. Originally crafted as a caricature of Bond villains, Scorpio unexpectedly evolved into a prescient spoof of "effectively altruistic" billionaires. Revered by fans, he ultimately inspired the creation of Russ Cargill, the villain in The Simpsons Movie. Portrayed with boundless energy and charisma by Albert Brooks, Scorpio without a doubt transcended his humble origins to become a fabled side character in the realm of animation.