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- Fox Network
- Fox Film Corporation

The Best Cartoon Families In TV History

Ranker TV

Updated September 1, 2024 70.7K views 27 items

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11.5K votes

2.2K voters

4 reranks

Voting Rules

Vote up your favorite animated families. Note that we're only including recurring immediate family members (and pets) - no estranged uncles, random cousins, second cousins once removed, etc.

Get ready to feel the love as we rank the greatest cartoon families in TV history! These memorable families can love, fight, and even deceive one another, but at the end of the day, they can often see the good in one another. As the viewer, you know they all love and support each other.

These groups, however big or small, may resemble our own extended family tree, exploring the traditional dynamic and private life of the American family throughout an abundance of television series. Even when they approach caricature, may be far from the ideal vision of family with their crazy antics, and lack healthy dynamics, there's generally something we can learn from each quirky household.

Whether it’s the Griffins from Family Guy, the Belchers, the Simpsons, or even the Morgendorffers from Daria, these families consist of very different archetypes, but they're all dynamic, funny, and extremely memorable characters and show that the nature of family often transcends cartoons and animation. These characters may be great when they’re on their own or paired up in various combinations in storylines, but that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and they tend to shine the best together as one cohesive unit.

From cute talking dogs and pet dinosaurs to genius babies and awkward grandparents, vote up your all-time favorite cartoon families. There are plenty of famous families on this list, with old and modern names alike from a wide array of popular TV shows. You'll also find images and descriptions to accompany each of these fictional families.

And if your favorite animated family is missing, go ahead and add them to the list!

Most divisive: The Browns

Over 2.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Cartoon Families In TV History

- Photo:
  user uploaded image
1
The Simpsons
Widely regarded as the quintessential American cartoon family, this lovable and dysfunctional nuclear family features a bumbling yet well-meaning father, a fiercely supportive mother who keeps everyone grounded, and three children who each contribute their own unique brand of humor, from the precocious to the rebellious. Memorable supporting characters and razor-sharp satire have not only made this show a television staple, but also provided biting commentary on American society for over three decades. Often imitated but never surpassed, this family has become synonymous with animated sitcoms and television history itself.
1,042 votes
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- Photo:
  Fox
2
The Griffins
This off-color, irreverent, and often controversial family, helmed by an overweight buffoonish father alongside his attractive, no-nonsense wife, has been a fixture of pop culture since their late-90s debut. Their three children and anthropomorphic pet dog have all provided varying degrees of bizarre, envelope-pushing humor, routinely skewering social norms and expectations. They've become synonymous with fast-paced, cutaway humor, outrageous gags, and unapologetic edginess, providing a unique and often polarizing brand of comedy that has garnered a dedicated and passionate fan base.
962 votes
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- Photo:
  Hanna Barbera
3
The Flintstones
Set in the prehistoric town of Bedrock, this classic cartoon family, comprising an affable yet slightly dim-witted father, a loving wife who's always ready with a wisecrack, and their adorable infant daughter, became the first primetime animated hit series in the early 1960s. Complete with stone-age puns, memorable catchphrases, and endearing characters like their pet sabertooth tiger and dinosaur-powered appliances, they've carved out a niche as an iconic representation of an earlier era in American life. Their enduring legacy lies in their ability to merge slapstick comedy and family values with a perceptive take on the modern suburban lifestyle, despite taking place before the invention of the wheel.
785 votes
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- Photo:
  Fox
4
The Belchers
Consisting of a quirky, eccentric father who runs a struggling burger joint, his overly dramatic wife, and their three lovably oddball children, this family quickly gained a devoted following for their tight-knit dynamic, witty banter, and endearing underdog spirit. Set in a bustling yet cozy seaside town, they navigate the trials and tribulations of life with unmatched humor and heart, eliciting laughter and emotional vulnerability in equal measure. Their offbeat adventures and charming personalities have earned them a place among television's most beloved animated families.
739 votes
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- Photo:
  Hanna-Barbera/Courtesy Everett
5
The Jetsons
This futuristic family, hailing from the space-age city of Orbit City, introduced audiences to a utopian vision of the future, complete with flying cars, robot maids, and whimsical gadgets. With its dashing, clean-cut father, devoted homemaker wife, and their two children—one a stylish teenager, the other an imaginative grade-schooler—their retrofuturistic escapades captured the imaginations and hearts of generations of viewers. Their optimistic, sky-high world brimmed with enchanting possibilities, and their enduring appeal lies in their glimpse into a world where technology can bring humanity closer together.
550 votes
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- Photo:
  Adult Swim
6
The Smiths
In this surreal, science-fiction-heavy cartoon, a drunken, eccentric genius of a grandfather leads his anxious and impressionable teenage grandson on wild, interdimensional misadventures, challenging their relationship with each other and their dysfunctional family back home. These deeply flawed, yet endearing characters grapple with existential dilemmas, dark humor, and absurd, mind-bending situations, all while maintaining a vulnerable emotional core that belies the show's chaotic exterior. With its innovative storytelling, trenchant satire, and cult following, this family proves that animation can be a cutting-edge, cerebral medium that tackles profound themes in imaginative, visually stunning ways.
565 votes
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- Photo:
  Fox Broadcasting
7
The Smiths
This politically-infused animated family, consisting of a staunchly conservative CIA agent father, his ditzy wife, their two teenage children, and their talking goldfish with the brain of a former East German ski instructor, provides an unapologetically irreverent take on modern American life and politics. The show frequently delves into bizarre, alien-filled subplots thanks to the presence of a wisecracking extraterrestrial living in their suburban home. On the surface, they may appear similar to other cartoon families, but their penchant for politically-driven humor and surreal storylines sets them apart as uniquely subversive entertainment.
566 votes
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- Photo:
  Comedy Central
8
The Marshes
Centered around a sharp-tongued, mischievous grade-schooler and his kind-hearted but equally foul-mouthed friends, this socially aware and provocative family have been incisively satirizing American politics, pop culture, and society for over two decades. Set in the small, snowbound town of South Park, the show is known for pushing boundaries and tackling the taboo with glee, while its fearless creators take aim at every facet of the cultural landscape. Often steeped in controversy and unafraid to offend, they've transcended the animation genre to become a vital snapshot of America's ever-shifting values and attitudes.
639 votes
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- Photo:
  Nickelodeon Network/Courtesy Everett Collection
9
The Pickles
A beloved staple of '90s children's television, this family centers on a group of precocious babies and their wacky, endearing interactions within an imaginative, toddler-friendly world. With their instantly memorable catchphrases, inventive storylines, and heartfelt themes about friendship, family, and growing up, they became an iconic representation of childhood innocence and wonder. As viewers followed the babies on their pint-sized adventures, they were treated to a beautifully crafted, nostalgic snapshot of early childhood, a testament to the show's lasting charm and appeal.
508 votes
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- Photo:
  Fox
10
The Hills
Hailing from the fictional Texan town of Arlen, this close-knit, down-to-earth family, featuring a propane salesman father, his homemaker wife, and their awkward teenage son, embodies the heart and soul of rural Americana. With its leisurely pacing, dry wit, and nuanced characterizations, the show offers a refreshingly understated take on modern life, eschewing the zany antics and cartoony violence of its contemporaries for relatable, compelling stories grounded in everyday reality. Their understated, heartfelt explorations of family, friendship, and community have secured them a special place in the pantheon of animated television.
492 votes
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- Photo:
  Comedy Central
11
The Broflovskis
Another suburban family from the small town of South Park, their primary focus is the highly-strung, outrage-prone mother and her compassionate but easily influenced grade-schooler son, as they navigate an ever-challenging world full of absurdity, dark humor, and biting satire. Their relationship often serves as a microcosm for larger societal conflicts, and the show never shies away from using them as foils for a range of issues, from political correctness to parenting challenges. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to shed light on the dark, cynical aspects of contemporary life, while still retaining a kernel of warmth and vulnerability.
453 votes
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- Photo:
  The Powerpuff Girls
  Warner Bros. Television Distribution
12
The Utoniums
Born from an accidental mixture of sugar, spice, and everything nice, these three crime-fighting superhero sisters represent the innate power and potential of girlhood, battling evil villains and everyday adolescent trials. Under the watchful eye of their genius creator and surrogate father, this unorthodox family brings a sense of wonder, empowerment, and bittersweet nostalgia to the television landscape. With their colorful animation, empowering messages, and high-octane adventures, they continue to serve as role models for young viewers and a cherished reminder of the indomitable spirit of youth.
290 votes
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- Photo:
  FOX
13
The Browns
This unconventional cartoon family gives us an endearing portrait of an African-American father who moves his young son back to his old neighborhood in Virginia, grappling with issues of race, class, and generational divides along the way. With a lovable cast of characters and a deft touch for blending slapstick comedy with thoughtful social commentary, the show offers a fresh, distinctive voice in the animated sitcom landscape. As they navigate their new lives together, they remind viewers of the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
435 votes
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- Photo:
  The Proud Family
  Disney–ABC Domestic Television
14
The Prouds
Centering on a vivacious teenage girl and her quirky, overprotective father, this family tackles themes of cultural identity, self-esteem, and familial duty with humor, warmth, and insight. Set against the backdrop of their upper-middle-class suburban neighborhood, their stories deftly balance poignant emotional moments with laugh-out-loud comedy, without ever shying away from the unique challenges faced by African-American families in America. With their strong representation of Black culture and resilience, they've become a beloved classic that still resonates with audiences today.
262 votes
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  The Boondocks
  Sony Pictures Television
15
The Freemans
This family, consisting of a cantankerous, politically-minded grandfather and his two young grandsons, provide a biting critique of African-American life and culture through their incisive satire and razor-sharp wit. Their adventures often involve skewering everything from race relations to pop culture, all while navigating the trials of life in their upscale suburban neighborhood. With their fearless approach to taboo subjects and unapologetic humor, they've established themselves as a bold and important voice in the world of animated television.
252 votes
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- Photo:
  Archer
  20th Television
16
The Archers
Set in a workplace environment but anchored by a found-family dynamic, this group of highly skilled spies - led by an egotistical, narcissistic, but ultimately well-meaning codenamed agent - face a myriad of absurdly dangerous missions and laugh-out-loud interpersonal conflicts. The show masterfully balances its fast-paced action, irreverent humor, and clever pop-culture references with surprisingly human moments and genuine emotional stakes. Despite their often outlandish exploits, the familial bonds between the characters shine through, positioning them as a memorable entry in the pantheon of beloved animated ensembles.
339 votes
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- Photo:
  The Casagrandes
  Nickelodeon Network/Paramount+
17
The Casagrandes
This sprawling, multigenerational Mexican-American family brings vibrant energy and warmth to their depictions of daily life, offering insight into Latinx culture and the immigrant experience. With a spirited young girl at the center of their stories, they navigate everything from neighborhood hijinks to family traditions with humor, charm, and authenticity. Their infectious warmth, rich cultural heritage, and strong emphasis on the importance of community make them a stand-out addition to the world of animated families.
235 votes
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- Photo:
  NICKELODEON
18
The Funnies
An offbeat and lovable suburban family, with a daydreaming grade-schooler as their focal point, they navigate the ups and downs of life in their colorful hometown of Bluffington. Known for their memorable character designs, catchy original music, and laid-back, slice-of-life storytelling, they've captured the hearts of viewers with their quirky yet relatable adventures, touching on themes like friendship, self-discovery, and small-town charm. Their enduring legacy lies in their ability to evoke heartfelt nostalgia and transport audiences back to the simplicity and wonder of childhood.
299 votes
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- Photo:
  user uploaded image
19
The Morgendorffers
Following the adventures of a smart, cynical, and sarcastic high school student and her relentlessly optimistic sister, this family is a nuanced exploration of teenage girlhood, sibling rivalry, and suburban ennui. Their interplay with their well-meaning but frequently clueless parents provides an insightful examination of the generational divide, all while tackling a variety of timely issues and maintaining a refreshingly acerbic wit. With their authentic characters, biting social commentary, and unflinching look at adolescence, they remain a relatable and revered favorite among fans of cultivated animation.
313 votes
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- Photo:
  user uploaded image
20
The Murphys
This Irish-American family from the animated series Milo Murphy's Law showcases their ability to cope with Murphy's Law, which states that anything that can go wrong will go wrong. From dealing with bizarre accidents to navigating daily life, they approach each situation with humor and resilience. The family members provide a heartwarming image of love and support despite the chaos that surrounds them.
318 votes
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- Photo:
  Fox
21
The Pestos
This eccentric family, composed of a bombastic chef, his long-suffering wife, and their twin daughters, provides an off-kilter and distinct flavor to their slice of the animated sitcom universe. Though they're often at odds or embroiled in petty rivalries, they ultimately come together to share in their passion for food and family. With their originality and comedic flair, they stand out as a memorable and endearing ensemble in a landscape filled with colorful characters.
291 votes
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- Photo:
  user uploaded image
22
The Lanes
Neighbors of the previously mentioned Morgendorffers, this family includes an aloof, artistic older sister and her quintessential Gen X slacker brother, offering a counterbalance to the more conventional family dynamics of their peers. With their cool, disaffected air and consistently wry observations, they act as a touchstone for the show's exploration of alternative lifestyles and outsider perspectives. Their laid-back, enigmatic personas have resonated with viewers for decades, making them a beloved and emblematic part of the animated world they inhabit.
249 votes
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- Photo:
  The Great North
  20th Television
23
The Tobins
As a struggling, rural Alaskan family with a strong patriarch at the helm, they face the challenges of daily life with unwavering grit, humor, and resourcefulness. Their distinctive setting and quirky sense of adventure set them apart from other animated families, lending their exploits a unique charm and appeal. With their tenacious spirit and tight-knit bonds, they illustrate the universal power of family and community, even in the most remote and unforgiving of environments.
159 votes
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- Photo:
  user uploaded image
24
The Shermans
This quirky, anthropomorphic family of animals offers a unique and whimsical take on domestic life, exploring universal themes and challenges through their endearingly oddball lens. Their adventures combine light-hearted humor, heartfelt emotion, and delightful absurdity, creating a world that's as enchanting as it is entertaining. With their charm, originality, and timeless appeal, they've earned their place among the most memorable and imaginative cartoon families in television history.
247 votes
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- Photo:
  Adult Swim
25
The Ventures
This satirical send-up of classic adventure cartoons features a well-meaning but hapless scientist, his fiercely loyal bodyguard, and their bumbling, naive twin sons, as they embark on a series of dangerous and offbeat missions. Blending dark humor, sharp wit, and affectionate nostalgia, their exploits serve as a clever commentary on the genre conventions and tropes that have inspired generations of entertainment. Their distinctive style, wry sense of humor, and unconventional family dynamics have cemented them as a beloved and enduring presence in the realm of animated television.
240 votes
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- Photo:
  Duncanville
  20th Television
26
The Harrises
This blended family of humans and aliens share an entertaining, heartwarming dynamic, as they navigate the trials of their cross-cultural coexistence. The show cleverly combines its offbeat humor and science-fiction elements with sincere explorations of family, identity, and belonging. As they learn about each other and themselves, they've endeared themselves to audiences as a shining example of the beauty and power of acceptance and love in all its forms.
151 votes
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- Photo:
  The Harper House
  CBS Media Ventures
27
The Harpers
A family of lovable misfits, each with their own distinct quirks and personalities, this clan provides a heartwarming and uproarious exploration of the importance of self-acceptance and unconditional love. Set against the backdrop of their cozy, idiosyncratic hometown, they navigate the triumphs and tribulations of everyday life with humor, resilience, and an unwavering sense of togetherness. Their authentic relationships, zany adventures, and heartfelt messages have earned them a lasting legacy as one of the most cherished and authentic animated families in television history.
119 votes
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