Sidekicks and best friends

Every cartoon protagonist will always be accompanied by his trusty sidekick or otherwise best friend. This theme is exemplified through countless cartoon examples that also display similar personality traits within the characters across several popular cartoons. Usually the main character portrays the brains and the sidekick portrays the comic relief. Sidekicks are always portrayed as "second best" as they are usually dumber, shorter, and overall less powerful than the lead character.

Notorious Batman and Robin epitomize the hero and sidekick concept. As Batman's sidekick, Robin displays less weapons and is overall less powerful than his magnificent partner Batman. Often times since sidekicks illustrate comic relief, they are positioned as less intelligent, goofy, or nerdy. These personality traits distinguish them from the main character, which gives the lead character added dominance. The sidekicks from cartoon shows such as The Flintstones, The Simpsons, Spongebob Squarepants, and Pinkey and the Brain (Animaniacs) display this theme exceptionally. Barney Rubble, is the neighbor and best friend of Fred Flintstone. He is illustrated as the diminutive "yes man" to Fred and his get rich quick schemes. Milhouse, best friend of Bart Simpson, is nerdy, insecure, and gullible, often following in the foot steps of Bart's mischief. Spongebob's best friend, Patrick Star depicts a foolish, dim-witted character always hungry for food. Lastly Pinkey is the goofy, airheaded partner in crime to lead character the Brain. These supporting characters exhibit some of the best examples of the sidekick/best friend theme that is regularly implemented in cartoons.