Dads are pretty awesome. They love us, embrace us, inspire us and teach us - and they definitely deserve some admiration.
Over the years, Disney has done a stellar job portraying different versions of those awesome fatherly qualities in their Disney dad characters, making us appreciate dads even more.
Here are five Disney Dads we admire:
Héctor - Coco:
Although he is initially seen as a lousy musician who left his family, Héctor’s love for his daughter Coco becomes clear as he tries his hardest to see her once more and to sing to her their special song. Be right back, just sobbing.
“I just wanted to see her again. I never should have left Santa Cecilia. I wish I could apologize, I wish I could tell her that her papá was trying to come home… that he loved her so much.” - Héctor
Fa Zhou - Mulan
Fa Zhou may have been hesitant to accept Mulan and her actions at first, but eventually he realizes his mistake and embraces his daughter and all of her qualities with great pride. We love an accepting and open-minded dad!
“The greatest gift and honor is having you for a daughter.” - Fa Zhou
Thomas O’Malley - Aristocats
Let’s be real -- Thomas O’Malley could have easily walked away from Duchess after seeing her three kittens. Instead, he takes her kittens in as his own and does everything in his power to protect his newly formed family. Now that is love.
“Duchess and kittens in trouble? There's no time to lose! You go and get Scat Cat and his gang of alley cats.” - Thomas O’Malley
James - Princess & The Frog
James not only gives Tiana endless love. He gives her a life lesson that sticks with her forever: Dream hard. Work harder. With his care and inspiration, Tiana becomes one of the most motivational and empowering Disney princesses ever. Thank you, James!
"Yes, you wish and you dream with all your little heart. But you remember, Tiana, that old star can only take you part of the way. You got to help him with some hard work of your own.” - James
Mufasa - The Lion King
You didn’t think we’d have a Disney Dads post and not include the OG old man did you? There’s a reason why we all cry so much when he *spoiler alert* passes because what is there not to love about this guy? He’s brave yet self-aware and strong yet compassionate and he does his best to pass down those same qualities to his son whom he clearly loves very much. A round of applause, please.
“Everything you see exists together in a delicate balance. As king, you need to understand that balance and respect all the creatures, from the crawling ant to the leaping antelope.” - Mufasa
Let’s add another round of applause for all dads, for all that they do for us in their own individual ways. Which Disney Dad reminds you of your dad?