During the early 1940s, a high-pitched, goofy and odd-talking bird would quickly become a household name. His name: Woody Woodpecker. Since that time, he has appeared in countless TV shows, animated specials and even in a few movies. He is – perhaps, aside from Daffy or Donald Duck and Foghorn Leghorn – one of the best cartoon characters for birds ever to be created. Join us today as we grind the grain like a real woodpecker does, celebrating our love for Woody with these interesting facts.

Top Facts About Woody Woodpecker

• He is supposed to be an anthropomorphic acorn woodpecker.
• He was created by Walter Lantz and his animation studio in 1940.
• Lantz worked with Ben “Bugs” Hardaway to design the bird.
• Hardaway worked on famous characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, at the Warner Bros.
• Three people did his voice over the years: Hardaway, Mel Blanc and Grace Stafford (Lantz’s wife).
• He was a primary feature of Universal through 1972, when Lantz closed up shop at his studio.
• Cartoons featuring him would not be broadcast on TV until 1957, under the matinee name: “The Woody Woodpecker Show.”
• The woodpecker has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
• He was seen on the big screen one final time in the 1988 in the movie: “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.”

WATCH: Original Episode of Woody Woodpecker: “Pantry Panic”

Woody Woodpecker has been adored by audiences for more than 70 years, and counting. While there have not been very many recent showings of him, as he has been shelved in lieu of more modern day characters, he’s as classic as it gets. Relive a classic episode that helped warm our hearts to this high-pitched and goofy bird in this original episode from the 1940s, where Woody has to help feed a hungry kitten during the height of winter.

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One of the most famous, and unquestionably also one of the best cartoon characters, ever is easily Homer Simpson. From his dysfunctional mannerisms as a bad parent, to his fleeting bouts with alcoholism, his disdain and contempt for work, and his seedy bar fly habits. This is the guy that America has celebrated for more than two decades. No wonder some parents banned their kids from watching the blue-collar roundup that comprised this show when it first graced TVs on FOX decades ago. Today, he is more celebrated than almost any other character, save for a few.

Test your knowledge today with some fun Homer Simpson facts that will make you say, “DOH!”

Q: After working at what job did Homer say, “I learnt two things. I lost creative control… and I forgot to ask for any money.”

A: Episode 167, “The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show.” Homer plays Poochie, a character from the show, in an episode that allowed “The Simpsons” to surpass “The Flintstones” as the show with most episodes.

Q: What favorite place was Homer at when he said this: “And I gave that man directions. Even though I didn’t know the way. ‘Coz that’s the kind of guy I am this week.”

A: Moe’s Tavern. When the Springfield Isotopes win a lot of games, Homer becomes upset because Duff is moving to a new city.

Q: In this episode mocking gun control Homer tells Marge that guns are ____

A: “Not a weapon, Marge. It’s a tool. Like a butcher’s knife, a harpoon or an alligator. You just have to have one.”

Q: In what episode does Homer discipline Bart for feeding the dog when he says, “Being abusive to your family is one thing. But I will not stand idly by and watch you feed a hungry dog!”

A: Bart fed the dog meatloaf. The episode was called “Burn’s Heir.”

Q: Here’s an easy one to make you feel better. In what episode was Homer a food critic?

A: “Guess Who’s Coming to Criticize Dinner.” The paper: Springfield Shopper.

WATCH: Homer Simpson: Best Moments – 2008-2012

How many memorable Homer Simpson moments can you count from this four year span? We are unsure, because we were laughing so loud when we watched this that we lost track of where we were at on a number of different occasions. Sufficed to say, we gave in to our humorous side and gave up on counting the moments. There are plenty of his memorable one-liners and silly anecdotes to put you right smack dab in the middle of the funny farm … and keep you there for quite some time.

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In 1994, Disney would release a film so epic that it’s still widely celebrated more than a decade later: The Lion King. Many credit this as one of the best films that Disney has ever created, and one that includes not only the best cartoon characters they have ever derived, but some of the most memorable, too. The storied tale of a young lion cub (Simba), who loses his parents at birth and is forced to fend off other pride members who are bent on dominating the kingdom, stole our hearts away, and reminded us about the perils of the human – ahem, lion – condition. What follows are some rather odd facts that few people know little of regarding this movie.

Strange Facts About The Lion King

• James Earl-Jones – who played King Mufasa, and Madge Sinclair who played Queen Sarabi, both were the African king and queen in Coming to America.
• During the song, “Hakuna Matada,” Timon pulls a bug out of the wood that has Mickey Mouse ears.
• When Scar and Simba face off, Scar points to a hyena army in the distance. If you look closely, you can see that one is in fact a Schnauzer.
• The plot virtually mimics that of the plot of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, except for Simba lives at the end.
• Scar is actually part wolf.
• Watch Nala’s eyes during the movie; they change from blue to green frequently.
• Nala’s mother is never named, but her name is really Sarafina.
• When all of the animals in the kingdom are welcoming Simba, look closer; it identically maps: Disneyland, Paris!, Anventureland (the monkeys and giraffes), Frontierland (zebras), Fantasyland (elephants) and Discoveryland (buffalos).

WATCH: Lion King – Circle of Life

One of the most memorable songs from the soundtrack of this major motion picture animated blockbuster is this song. It’s a tribal and beautifully syncopated song that really stirs up some emotion when you listen to it. Prior to online music download sites, when movie soundtracks still sold well on store shelves, this was one of the best-selling movie sound tracks in history. Enjoy this video that depicts some of the most memorable, best cartoon characters ever created, and relive your love for the Lion King. 34-million views and counting, it’s a top pick!

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In 2004, a quiet suburban family of clandestine superheroes was unveiled to the world, brought to us by Disney/Pixar in a classic film that helped spawn several of the newest, best cartoon characters, The Incredibles. But when tragedy and the world came a calling, they found themselves suddenly thrust into the worldwide spotlight, tasked with saving the world from an evil that lurked; one that was killing off all superheroes. Along the way, the makers of this film were certain to incorporate plenty of humor and witty anecdotes for parental viewers. There are some interesting facts regarding this film that you may not have been aware of prior.

Five Facts About The Incredibles… Did You Know?

• The voices were done by notable actors and actresses, including: Craig T Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L Jackson, Jason Lee and John Ratzenberger.
• Mr. Incredible decided to stop being a superhero with his family because there were too many insurance claimed from rescues gone awry. But he became bored and discontent with his “normal” existence as a result.
• Brad Bird, who wrote and directed the film, was inspired to do so because he felt there was a precarious imbalance between his work life and his family life.
• The music in the film and the design of the film was inspired by the classic James Bond flicks from the 60s.
• The animators used special animation effects to cast a light ray on the main characters, so they would look human as well as animated.
  

WATCH: The Incredibles – Action Montage

If you enjoyed watching this movie and you are fan of these cartoon characters, then you won’t want to miss out on viewing this video. It was uploaded by Disney/Pixar about two years ago to YouTube.com. Since that time, is has received more than 70,000 views. It’s a montage of all of the incredibly hilarious action scenes from the major motion animated film. Due to its high quality animation constituents, it also happens to be our video pick of the week for best cartoon characters. So enjoy, and don’t resist the urge to hit up Red Box and to relive a viewing of this epic film.

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Think back about half a dozen years from the present date with us … around 2006 … and you will have the right timeframe in mind. This year was the year that the first Cars movie was released by Disney. The film went on to rock the box office, raking in tons of loot with its colorful, adventurous and witty appeal to kids and parents alike. Amongst the numerous cartoon cars that were featured, the film would ultimately reveal one of the new, best cartoon characters: Lightning McQueen. What Follows are some key facts to know about this popular car.

Top Eight Facts to Know About Lightning McQueen

1. Lightning McQueen is a corvette car voiced by actor Owen Wilson in the film.
2. He has a 750 horsepower V8 engine.
3. He can go from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds.
4. His tires are called “Fettuccini Alfredo,” after their whitewashed look.
5. A lot of people think that car is named after Steve McQueen, the famous actor who loved racing cars. But it’s not. It’s actually named after Glenn McQueen, a famous animator who worked for Disney that passed away in 2002.
6. Lightning McQueen is a bit arrogant, but is socially inclined and likeable in the film.
7. He is the favorite to win the Piston Cup Championship in Los Angeles.
8. When he was a rookie car, he had a signature yellow stripe on his bumper.

WATCH: Meet Lightning McQueen

This ever so cute video introduces Lightning McQueen from the popular Pixar Pals Parade at the Disney theme park at the Agents on a Mission exhibit. A dedicated fan took the time to shoot this video during his most recent visit to this park. It features the real life version of this popular cartoon character up close and personal. Added bonuses include footage of Mater Finn McMissile and Martin up close in their real life car versions.

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Easily, one of the most memorable, best cartoon characters ever created was that of Speed Mifune (Speed Racer cartoon). This classic lead character has captivated Americans (and many others) for more than five decades; it was originally released in the US in the 60s. Now, you can relive the adventure all over again. That’s because in just mere days from now, the new Speed Racer gamer arrives on all iSO powered devices. It’s Speed like you grew up loving him, and the game is entirely based upon the original episodes. Here’s the scoop of Mach 6 ice cream that you want to gobble up.

We came across a press releases that was issued by Social Games International, announcing their partnering With Speed Racer Enterprises, Inc to bring you this game. According to information provided in that release, the game will be available for all iSO powered devices this month (April).

Here’s an excerpt from that press release:

In Speed Racer: The Beginning players will take the role of Speed himself as he pushes the powerful Mach 5 to its limits in an attempt become the greatest race car driver ever. Challenges abound as players learn to avoid deadly obstacles, such as oil slicks, rough terrain, falling rocks and weather; jump treacherous gaps; and, outrun enemy racers. Before and after each race, Speed Racer: The Beginning will also allow players to customize the team and Mach 5 with performance boosting tires, power boosts, increased durability, extra lives and additional Trixie helicopter rides. Speed Racer: The Beginning will entirely retain the classic look and feel of the original series and will even include exciting clips from the actual show before and after races.

Let all of your friends know you are fan of Speed by liking the new Speed Racer Game on Facebook.

WATCH: Speed Racer: The Man Behind The Mask

The best cartoon characters had to come from somewhere. Relive and reignite your passion for the Speed Racer cartoon with this classic episode. In this episode, Speed must compete against the fearsome Racer X, who he has no clue is actually his long lost older brother. It’s as classic as Speed Racer gets. And the game we just told you all about enables you the take the wheel of the classic Mach 5, after reliving the Speedy joy that this original episode brings you, of course.

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For more than twenty years the Simpson family has not aged one bit – they are still the same age as they were when the show first aired in 1989. America has been fascinated, and at times obfuscated, by this semi-dysfunctional family with their genius do-good daughter and their bad-boy troublemaker son. When Bart is not busy getting into mischief, and Lisa is not taking to her studies, Homer is out getting drunk with his pals and getting into trouble while Marge tends the baby at home. Easily, the mainstay of this show is focused upon Homer and his relationship with his son. We wondered today, how many people in real life have loved Homer so much that they would actually transform their cars into effigies of him. What we found kind of shocked us.

Behold: The Simpsons Smart Car.

This sleek street racer screams Springfield from the highest hills.

We don’t quite get the tiling when paint would do. Still, Simpsons Car!

Here’s a front view, just in case you were wondering.

This tells us one thing: HOMER WAS HERE.

HOMER WAS HERE: Part 2.

Jetsons meets Simpsons? This is the car from an early episode that bankrupted his Half-Brother Herb.

We had to show this freaky Marge look-a-like in for fun. SCARY!

The Forza 2 Simpsons racecar.

The REAL LIFE Simpsons station wagon. We imagine it would look something like this in real life.

WATCH: “To Alcohol! The cause of… and solution to… all of life’s problems.”

This classic clip from The Simpsons shows a confident Homer Simpson declaring avidly that alcohol is the cause – and the solution – to all of life’s problems. Of course, he is a borderline alcoholic and an overweight, dysfunctional father, but that’s part of what makes him one of the best cartoon characters ever…and our top pick for best cartoon dad. We leave you with this hilarious clip that is certain to tickle your funny bone.

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Chuck Jones is the mastermind animation visionary who helped produced early episodes of the world’s most famous rabbit back in the late 1930s. It’s kind of crazy to think that cartoons have been around for nearly one hundred years. When you stop and think about the most famous, most memorable, best cartoon characters ever—Bugs Bunny can’t ever be overlooked. This wise cracking rabbit is as famous as they get. This got us to thinking today over here…considering his fame and stature, how many real life Bugs Bunny Sightings could we spot. A lot of sightings of this more than 80-year-old rabbit, that’s how many!

He’s always ready to make you smile on your birthday. Quick note: next time don’t wear Mickey Mouse hands when you meet you Bugs Bunny; just saying.

Bugs loves Latin America.

Bugs’ father/producer, Chuck Jones. RIP!

BEHOLD: The official NASCAR Bugs Bunny.

And NASCAR Bugs Bunny Part 2.

Remote-controlled Bugs.

Alcohol Awareness bugs: Don’t Drink and Drive!

And…that’s all folks!

WATCH: Classic Bugs Bunny Episode: “Falling Hare”

Take a trip down memory lane with us…all the way back to 1943, when one of the best cartoon characters ever to be created first got his start as a riley rabbit. Esteemed director, Robert Clampett, was the mastermind behind this infamous episode that was produced by Leon Schlesinger and distributed by Warner Bros. Bugs would later go on to become one of the most recognizable and best cartoon characters ever created.

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For all extents and purposes, Popeye is not that indifferent from anime characters that are frequently seen in popular Japanese cartoons. To better shed some light in this aspect, all anime characters have a special power, for the most part. They always have some sort of detailed, gaudily animated build-up that depicts them harnessing or accessing or gathering their special powers (hint-hint- Pokémon is a great example of this). And for the most part, they always have that trademarked theme song when they are about to get down and dirty, and do some serious battle in the ongoing fight for good. Classic anime, right?

With that in mind, and considering that Popeye was around long before any anime cartoon characters were, it’s not that crazy to think that anime may have borrowed from our sailor buddy. Consider this: Popeye has his own theme song. He has his own special powers that can only be accessed when he eats spinach. He is always trying to save the victim girl (Olive Oyl) from the danger of a menacing villain. He also started out with his own American version of manga, a comic book strip, back in 1929, long before anime (daily King Features comic strip Thimble Theatre on January 17, 1929).

We think that a battle would go something like this:

• Popeye would belt out a trademark line
• Anime character would begin to access special powers
• Popeye would eat his spinach while anime character was powering up
• Popeye would attack first and catch anime character off guard
• Anime character would be defeated because he took too long to power-up
• Anime Popeye would eat sushi in place of spinach to access special powers

Let us know what you think in your comments. Would Popeye win in battle versus anime characters?

WATCH: Popeye vs. Anime

This hilarious video depicts what it might be like were Popeye the Sailor to have a showdown with the Hoku princesses. We don’t want to spoil this original, laugh-out-loud video for you. But sufficed to say that it’s not nearly what you might expect that it would be. We also want to thank whomever it was that created this unique animation, as it is one of the few we have seen that pits some of the best cartoon characters from the past against some of the most popular Japanese cartoon characters of the present day.

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The best cartoon characters have graced TV sets and the silver screen for years. They first arrived in comic books (at least many of them did), while others were created during the late 20s and early 30s, and were featured in short animated specials at the local nickelodeon of the day (which was called that because it cost you a nickel to gain admission). Two of the best cartoon characters of all time are undoubtedly Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny. Seeing as they were both created from competing studios, however, it would be very unlikely that they would both ever share some screen time, even if fans really wanted to see it.

If you follow the timeline from their creation, which can roughly be estimated to have been around 1930, it would not be for more than 58 years later until just this sort of thing would happen. If you have not guessed where these two best cartoon characters appeared for the only time together on screen, it was in the major motion picture 1988 release of Who Framed Roger Rabbit. In particular, it was a scene near the end of the film where the main detective is falling from the sky without a parachute on. Out of nowhere arrives Bugs Bunny on one side of him with Mickey Mouse on the other side. And neither really offers a solution for him to save himself from a plummet to the ground: a spare parachute.

WATCH: Bugs Bunny & Mickey Mouse Working Together

The year of 1988 would be one of epic proportions for some of the best cartoon characters. It would mark really the first time where animation met movie technology. In this clip, one of the most famous clips from this movie (Who Framed Roger Rabbit; 1988), it shows Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins) falling from very high up in the sky without a parachute on. Suddenly, Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny appear out of nowhere to save the day, kind of. It’s a classic scene that you will almost never see anywhere else, as these two cartoon characters are made by different animation studios that generally competed with one another.

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