Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to shine a light on the amazing dads from Disney movies. These characters go above and beyond to teach their kids about life, love, and sometimes how to survive underwater rapids or rule a kingdom. Whether they’re animals, gods, or everyday heroes, these Disney dads remind us just how special a father’s love can be.
10. James Rogers (The Princess and the Frog)
James Rogers, Tiana’s dad, may not have had a lot of screen time, but his impact is undeniable. A hardworking man with a passion for cooking, James taught Tiana that dreams don’t just happen—you have to work for them. He encouraged her to keep her head up, even when life got tough. His unwavering belief in her ability to achieve her dreams of owning a restaurant laid the foundation for her journey. James is proof that sometimes the lessons a dad teaches stay with us forever.
9. Crush (Finding Nemo)
Crush is the epitome of a cool dad. With his relaxed “go-with-the-flow” attitude, he supports his son Squirt while letting him make his own way. Who wouldn’t want a dad who surfs the East Australian Current like a pro and gives life advice between catching waves? Crush’s approach to parenting is a reminder that sometimes you have to let kids explore the world while being their safety net when they need it.
8. Zeus (Hercules)
Being the king of the gods isn’t an easy gig, but Zeus still makes time to be a supportive dad to Hercules. From the moment he proudly holds baby Herc in his massive arms, you can see how much he adores his son. Even when Hercules is cast down to Earth, Zeus keeps an eye on him, guiding him and cheering him on. His mix of larger-than-life strength and soft-hearted warmth makes him a standout Disney dad.
7. Heinz Doofenshmirtz (Phineas and Ferb)
Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz may not seem like a traditional choice for a great Disney dad, but his relationship with his daughter Vanessa is surprisingly heartwarming. Having grown up with neglectful and unloving parents, Heinz tries his best to be the father he never had. Whether he’s building elaborate “inator” machines to impress Vanessa or genuinely listening to her concerns, Doofenshmirtz’s goofy, eccentric nature hides a deep love for his daughter. His efforts to connect with Vanessa show that no matter your quirks, love and care make all the difference.
6. Pongo (101 Dalmatians)
Pongo isn’t just a loyal companion—he’s a dedicated dad to 15 puppies (plus a few extras he rescues along the way). When his puppies are kidnapped by the villainous Cruella de Vil, Pongo steps up, leading the charge to bring them back home. His bravery and resourcefulness are unmatched, and his tender care for his pups makes him a truly heroic dad.
5. Marlin (Finding Nemo)
Marlin might start out as an overprotective parent, but who could blame him after everything he’s been through? His journey to find Nemo is filled with danger, but he never gives up. Along the way, he learns to loosen the reins and trust his son to be independent. Marlin’s love and determination prove that even the most cautious dads will go to great lengths to protect their kids.
4. Bob Parr (Mr. Incredible) (The Incredibles)
Being a superhero is hard, but being a superhero dad? That’s next level. Bob Parr, better known as Mr. Incredible, struggles to balance saving the world with being there for his kids. While he stumbles at times, his love for his family always shines through. Whether he’s helping Dash with his homework or teaming up with the whole family to fight evil, Bob shows that even heroes need their families.
3. Wilden Lightfoot (Onward)
Though Wilden Lightfoot is no longer alive during Onward, his role as a father shapes the entire story. Through magic, his sons Ian and Barley get a chance to bring him back for a day. The journey to reunite with him reveals just how much he loved and supported his boys, even in his absence. Wilden’s dedication to leaving behind a magical connection and his lasting impact on his sons make him an extraordinary Disney dad.
2. Goofy (A Goofy Movie)
Goofy may be clumsy and a little embarrassing, but his heart is always in the right place. In A Goofy Movie, he goes to great lengths to bond with his son Max, even when Max is less than thrilled. Whether he’s teaching Max how to fish or making him laugh with his silly antics, Goofy is all about showing his love in his own unique way. Despite their differences, Goofy’s unwavering dedication to his son and his efforts to truly understand him make him one of Disney’s most lovable dads.
1. Mufasa (The Lion King)
At the top of our list is Mufasa, the ultimate Disney dad. Mufasa is everything a father should aspire to be: wise, loving, and fiercely protective. From his first appearance, guiding young Simba across the Pride Lands, Mufasa radiates strength and wisdom. He doesn’t just teach Simba the rules of being a king; he imparts life lessons about balance, respect, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
His iconic speech about the “circle of life” isn’t just for Simba—it resonates with viewers of all ages, reminding us of our place in the world. Even after his tragic death, Mufasa’s spirit remains a guiding force for Simba, proving that a father’s love and teachings endure long after they’re gone. Mufasa’s legacy as a protector and mentor cements him as not just the best Disney dad, but one of the most unforgettable father figures in movie history.
This Father’s Day, let’s celebrate all the dads who inspire us—whether they’re protecting us like Mufasa or teaching us to relax like Crush.
Which Disney dad is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
