If Disney princesses were a core part of your childhood, then you know that nothing stirs up more friendly debate than ranking these iconic characters. From Snow White, the very first Disney princess introduced in 1937, to the fiercely independent Raya from “Raya and the Last Dragon” introduced in 2021, here’s our take on the royal ranking of all 15 official Disney princesses.
Starting at the bottom, Snow White, the original princess, remains a timeless classic but lacks the depth of her successors. Aurora, or Briar Rose from “Sleeping Beauty,” with her great hair and OG status, unfortunately spends much of her story asleep, hence her lower ranking. Meanwhile, Anna from “Frozen” enchants with her charm and wit but feels a bit too similar to Rapunzel, and less compelling than her sister Elsa. Raya, though strong and courageous, finds herself ranked lower due to the film not capturing the same heart as other Disney classics.
Cinderella, while iconic, relies a bit too much on external rescue, missing out on using Fairy Godmother’s magic for something beyond a magical evening. Elsa, despite “Let It Go” being overplayed, stands out for addressing mental health and self-acceptance, and let’s not forget those amazing ice powers. Merida from “Brave” marks a unique departure as Pixar’s first princess, showcasing her bold and fiercely independent nature without a focus on romance.
Jasmine from “Aladdin” is a breath of fresh air, breaking away from the damsel in distress trope with her independent mindset and curiosity. Ariel from “The Little Mermaid,” while unforgettable, is known for her impetuous decisions, yet the film’s musical score and her iconic bangs secure her a higher spot. Pocahontas, while historically inaccurate, brings a message of equality and level-headedness. Rapunzel from “Tangled” is immensely relatable, navigating the real world with quirky charm and authenticity.
Moana shines brightly, focusing on leadership and bravery without a requisite love story, accepting her destiny as the future chief. Tiana from “The Princess and the Frog” brings a modern take with her hard work and entrepreneurial spirit, proving that dreams can be achieved through perseverance. Belle from “Beauty and the Beast” captures hearts with her introverted nature and bookish tendencies, showcasing a classic tale about inner beauty. And finally, Mulan tops the list, embodying strength, familial dedication, and epic heroism, all while saving China and delivering timeless lessons of self-discovery and valor.
Do you agree with this ranking? Who is your favorite Disney princess? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going!
Source: Kailey Hansen
