The 21 Best Animal Sidekicks in Media

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Media always directs our viewpoints to the main characters of a show. However, sometimes, a sidekick character can steal the spotlight with their charm, wit, or hilarious antics. Sidekicks are often just as important as the lead characters, from animated classics to science fiction epics.

With their unique personalities and one-of-a-kind tales, these furry companions have left an endearing mark on entertainment. Today, we would like to celebrate some of these fantastic creatures. Join us as we explore the best animal sidekicks the world of entertainment has to offer.

1. Donkey, Shrek

Shrek is one of the best-animated comedies of the 2000s. Donkey is a loveable character full of wit and charm that audiences can’t get enough of. The character is voiced by the hilarious Eddie Murphy, whose natural comedic talent shines through in spades.

Donkey isn’t just used as a comedic device. The character forms a strong emotional bond with Shrek throughout their adventures. This allows him to provide much-needed insight and moral grounding to the hero.

2. Chewbacca, Star Wars

Star Wars paved the way for modern science fiction. Chewbacca has an instantly recognizable catchphrase and remains a pop culture icon in his own right. This character is primarily known for their strength, loyalty, and fierce bravery.

Chewbacca is Han Solo’s sidekick and copilot of the Millennium Falcon. His close bond with Han Solo and his unwavering support against the Empire has made him a fan favorite in the Star Wars community.  

3. Sebastian, The Little Mermaid

This singing crab has stolen the hearts of millions of children. Sebastian is the advisor to the young princess Ariel in The Little Mermaid. His beautiful songs and charming demeanor help him guide the princess along her journey.

Sabastian is as iconic as he is entertaining. The character is relatable to children and adults alike, lending to his status as a 90s cultural icon and one of the best sidekicks around.

4. Salem, Sabrina the Teenage Witch

A good witch has to have a cat sidekick. Salem is Sabrina’s feline companion in Sabrina the Teenage Witch. His dry humor and sarcastic wit allow him to provide comic relief and emotional support to our fledgling witch.

Salem is more than just snarky quips and attitude. As the series progresses, it is clear that he has a big heart and is deeply protective of Sabrina. Salem is a lovable and relatable character who has left a mark on television history.

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5. Pegasus, Hercules

Who doesn’t want a flying horse? Pegasus is the mount and faithful friend of the mythological hero Hercules. Our flying friend has a strong sense of justice and helps to steer the wayward hero on his journey.

Pegasus can’t speak but uses body language to convey his complex emotions. The creature’s extraordinary fighting prowess and love for our hero have made him beloved by moviegoers for generations.

6. Pikachu, Pokemon

This electric mouse has a lot of heart. Pikachu is both the sidekick and one of the main characters of the hit anime Pokémon. He has remained a pop culture icon for his adorable design and incredible fighting powers.

Pikachu provides Ash with emotional support and helps him battle through the exciting and difficult world of Pokémon battles. Pikachu is a character loved by people of all ages and will go down in history as one of the most influential anime characters ever designed.

7. Iago, Aladdin

This sassy parrot steals the screen. Iago is the pet parrot of the villainous sorcerer Jafar. The two unite to overthrow the sultan and claim Prince Jasmine as Jafar’s Queen. He may be one of the villains, but Iago captivated audiences with his sarcasm and witty dialogue.

Unlike his master, Iago isn’t evil; he is just self-serving. The wry parrot even helps Aladdin and the other heroes when it benefits him. This morally neutral character highlights how complex animal sidekicks can be.

8. Toto, The Wizard of Oz

This dog is far from Kansas. Toto is the friendly Brindle Cairn Terrier companion to the lovable Dorothy in The Wizard of OZ. This adorable pet stays by Dorothy’s side throughout the film and provides emotional support in this faraway land.

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9. Mushu, Mulan

Dragons come in all shapes and sizes. Mushu is an ancient dragon sent by Mulan’s ancestors to aid her in the upcoming battle against the Huns. He may not have the power and size our protagonist wanted, but he is a clever and formidable addition to her team.

Mushu is a hilarious companion that reinforces the idea that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Although he primarily provides comedic relief, his heartwarming bond with Mulan offers emotional depth and some genuinely moving scenes.

10. Scooby-Doo, Scooby-Doo Where Are You

This talking dog is a big scaredy cat. Scooby Doo is the sidekick and titular character of the beloved Hanna-Barbera cartoon Scooby Doo, Where Are You. He joins Fred, Daphney, Velma, and Shaggy as they hunt down and solve various mysteries.

Scooby Doo is a classic cartoon character who has entertained audiences for generations. This easily frightened sidekick is instantly recognizable and continues to be featured in new adaptations of the classic franchise.  

11. Binx, Hocus Pocus

This cat has become a Halloween staple. Binx is a magical cat who helps Max, Dani, and Allison defeat the Sanderson sisters in the classic horror comedy Hocus Pocus. His fierce protection of these girls and tragic backstory make him stand out as one of the best sidekick characters ever.

Binx the cat was once Thackery Binx, a young man who had the misfortune of crossing the Sanderson sisters. He is now cursed to spend his remaining days as a household pet. Binx’s resolve and willingness to sacrifice himself have made him an iconic spooky season mascot.

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12. Brian, Family Guy

This pseudo-intellectual dog has a drinking problem. Brian is the beloved pet of the Griffin Family in Family Guy. His observational humor and struggles with mental health have made him a mainstay on television for over 20 years.

Brian often serves as a voice of reason on the show. However, he is just as messed up and self-serving as the rest of his iconic family. Brian also provides Family Guy fans with some of the series’ most heartwarming and thought-provoking episodes.

13. Stitch, Lilo and Stitch

This force of destruction has a heart of gold. Stitch is a genetically modified alien experiment created to destroy everything in its path. Luckily for Earth’s inhabitants, Stitch becomes fast friends with Lilo before he can enact his world-ending mission.

Stitch doesn’t understand human life and has trouble finding where he belongs. His relatable struggles provide insight into the nature of family and community. Stitch is a lovable, if erratic, companion who stands tall as one of the best Disney sidekicks.

14. Zero, The Nightmare Before Christmas

This ghost dog learns the real meaning of Christmas. Zero is Jack Skellington’s lovable pet dog in The Nightmare Before Christmas. The two set out to explore other holidays and bring some Christmas spirit to Halloween Town.

Zero guides Jack Skellington as he fumbles his way through cultural appropriation. His adorable design and iconic spooky theme have made him a Halloween and Christmas classic.

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15. Milo, The Mask

This dog gets God-like powers. Milo is the faithful Jack Rusell Terrier companion to Stanley Ipkiss in The Mask. After his owner finds a mysterious mask that grants him unrivaled power, Milo must help him use his new talents for good.

Milo is a cute emotional support character who helps guide Stanley through dangerous situations. His appearances in the 90s comedy have cemented him as a pop culture icon and one of the best sidekicks around.

16. Terk, Tarzan

This wise-cracking gorilla can pack a punch. Terk is Tarzan’s mischievous best friend. She guides him as he learns how to live in the jungle. Her strength lies in her unwavering loyalty to her family and her wit and humor.

She also provides some of the best musical numbers in the film. Audiences love Terk for her spunky personality, irreverent comedy, and her fierce dedication to those she loves.

17. Baloo, The Jungle Book

This bear is maybe a little too laid-back. In The Jungle Book, Baloo is Mowgli’s best friend and mentor. This lovable oaf uses his wisdom and compassion to teach Mowgli the essential aspects of a carefree life.

Audiences love Baloo for his infectious spirit, jovial nature, and loyalty to Mowgli. This heartwarming friendship has led to Baloo’s enduring legacy as one of the best animal sidekicks in the media.  

18. Sven, Frozen

This reindeer is part of the most useful animated movie of all time. Sven is the epitome of loyalty and friendship. He is Kristoff’s faithful companion in the hit film Frozen. Although he cannot speak, Sven has no problem communicating through body language and over-the-top facial expressions.

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19. Marie, The Aristocats

This cat knows how to swing. Marie is the middle child in the aristocratic family. She is fondly remembered for her sassy attitude and quick wit. In the film, she is a main character and sidekick to her mother, Duchess.

Marie captivates audiences with her elegance, confidence, and undeniable charm. She often takes charge and tries to protect her sheltered family from the dangers of the world. Marie is one of Disney’s most iconic feline characters. She remains one of the best sidekicks to come out of the studio.

20. Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio

This cricket is the voice of morality. Jiminy Cricket is the guardian and moral compass of the film’s titular character. He guides Pinocchio as he learns the ways of the world and offers emotional support to the young hero.

Jiminy’s strength lies in his kindness, wisdom, and optimism. Jimmy’s enduring legacy as a pop culture figure stems from his ability to inspire people to always listen to their conscience.

21. Pluto, Mickey Mouse

Why is this dog the only creature that can’t speak? Pluto is the pet dog of the iconic Mickey Mouse. Although, oddly, Pluto is one of the few non-anthropomorphic characters in Mickey’s world, the beloved pet still brings joy to everyone around him.

Pluto has an infectious zest for life, and his silly antics continue entertaining audiences of all ages. His heartwarming interactions have made him a staple of American pop culture and one of the best sidekicks around.

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