The Beetlejuice cartoon, based on Tim Burton’s iconic 1988 film, became a beloved animated series that aired in the early 1990s. It had its own unique spin, blending wacky humor with supernatural elements. The series introduced a range of quirky characters, each with their own personalities, quirks, and role in the supernatural world. From the titular Beetlejuice himself to the supporting characters that helped bring the world to life, these characters have left a lasting impression on fans of all ages.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the 12 most memorable Beetlejuice cartoon characters of all time, diving into their unique traits and why they stand out in the world of animation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the series, these characters are sure to bring back fond memories of your childhood.
Table of Contents
1. Beetlejuice
As the main protagonist and anti-hero, Beetlejuice is undoubtedly the most memorable character in the series. Voiced by Stephen Ouimette, Beetlejuice is a mischievous, loud-mouthed, and chaotic ghost who has an affinity for causing trouble. His appearance, with his signature striped suit and wild hair, quickly made him an iconic character. Despite his obnoxious nature, Beetlejuice has a strange charm that makes him lovable in his own right. He serves as both a friend and a troublemaker to the other characters in the series, often dragging them into his crazy adventures.
2. Lydia Deetz
Lydia Deetz, the goth teenager played by Catherine O’Hara in the original movie, is back in the animated series as well. She is the protagonist’s human friend, always caught up in Beetlejuice’s chaotic plans. With her signature red hair and dark, sarcastic personality, Lydia brings a sense of balance to the show. She’s intelligent, cynical, and slightly awkward, but beneath her tough exterior, Lydia cares deeply for those around her. Her character often struggles between her love for Beetlejuice’s crazy antics and her desire for normality.
3. Adam and Barbara Maitland
The Maitlands, originally played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis in the movie, make appearances in the cartoon, too. In the series, Adam and Barbara are still the friendly, down-to-earth couple who became ghosts after a tragic accident. They serve as a foil to Beetlejuice, offering the show a more grounded, sensible perspective. Their characters often serve as the moral compass of the show, contrasting with Beetlejuice’s over-the-top antics.
4. The Ghostly Trio
The Ghostly Trio consists of three bumbling, yet endearing ghost characters: Big, Fat, and Harry—each one bringing a unique flavor to the mix. These characters often help Beetlejuice, but usually in ways that only make things worse. With their comedic timing, exaggerated personalities, and constant bickering, the Ghostly Trio remains one of the most humorous aspects of the show. Their antics are often in stark contrast to the more serious tone of other characters, providing comic relief in nearly every episode.
5. The Maitland Mansion
The Maitland Mansion itself might not be a character in the traditional sense, but it’s an iconic part of the series. It’s the haunted house where Beetlejuice and Lydia often have their strange adventures. The mansion, full of secret passages, strange rooms, and mysterious elements, feels almost like an additional character that interacts with the others. It is the setting for countless hilarious and spooky moments in the series.
6. Beetlejuice’s Cousin, “The Cousin”
One of the more unique characters in the cartoon is Beetlejuice’s cousin. While he’s not as well-known as the main cast, this cousin provides some interesting comedic relief. Similar in appearance and behavior to Beetlejuice but much more sinister, he has a love for pranking and causing havoc. The dynamic between Beetlejuice and his cousin adds an interesting layer to his already complicated life in the Afterlife.
7. The Sandworm
The terrifying yet oddly adorable Sandworm is one of Beetlejuice’s biggest enemies. It’s a massive, desert-dwelling creature that makes occasional appearances throughout the series. While it is often a source of horror for Beetlejuice and others, its bizarre appearance and unpredictable behavior make it a standout character. Despite its seemingly dangerous nature, it also provides moments of humor that fans of all ages can appreciate.
8. Miss Argentina
Miss Argentina, a character from the Beetlejuice movie, gets her own animated appearance in the series. She’s the assistant in the Afterlife and is one of the first characters introduced in the animated show’s supernatural world. Despite being more of a background character, Miss Argentina provides a comedic presence with her strict yet caring attitude. She’s also responsible for managing the operations of the Afterlife, making her a key figure in the series.
9. Otho
In the Beetlejuice animated series, Otho plays a larger role as a mischievous and cunning individual from the Afterlife. Known for his penchant for making everything about him, Otho constantly tries to manipulate situations to his advantage. While his character in the animated series is not as prominently featured as in the movie, his sarcastic humor and over-the-top demeanor remain consistent with the original portrayal.
10. The Afterlife Police
The Afterlife Police are often seen attempting to maintain order in the chaotic world of the dead. These characters add a sense of law and order to the otherwise anarchic setting of the series. While they are not major characters, their presence serves as an interesting counterbalance to Beetlejuice’s lawless antics. They typically attempt to arrest Beetlejuice and the others for breaking the rules of the afterlife.
11. Beetlejuice’s Pet, “Cat”
Beetlejuice’s pet cat adds a lighthearted, sometimes sarcastic dynamic to the series. The cat often gets caught up in Beetlejuice’s schemes, providing both comic relief and occasional moments of unexpected wisdom. This quirky pet gives a sense of warmth to the series, proving that not all characters in the world of Beetlejuice are chaotic troublemakers.
12. The Beetlejuice Family
Although not a major part of the series, Beetlejuice’s family adds a fun and bizarre layer to his backstory. These eccentric characters share Beetlejuice’s unruly and unpredictable nature, often showing up to create even more trouble for our heroes. The quirky dynamics between the Beetlejuice family members create hilarious moments that enrich the already zany world of the show.
Conclusion
The Beetlejuice cartoon remains a beloved part of animated TV history, thanks to its rich roster of unique and memorable characters. From Beetlejuice himself, the lovable troublemaker, to the ghosts, spirits, and supernatural creatures that populate his world, each character brings something distinct to the table. Their dynamic relationships, quirky personalities, and outrageous adventures ensure the show remains a fun and enjoyable experience for both old fans and new viewers alike.
