Through the years, Disney has created some endearing sidekicks to our favorite animated princesses. From Snow White’s seven dwarves to Elsa and Anna’s silly snowman Olaf, we, viewers, have enjoyed their antics and overall lovable personalities.
But in this lineup of side characters, there is one that doesn’t get enough recognition as the rest–and that’s Charlotte La Bouff from the Princess and the Frog.
Unlike other members of the Disney sidekick group, Charlotte doesn’t get talked about as much. And despite her hilarious personality and selfless nature, she doesn’t even get a spinoff short film like that of Olaf (and she rightfully deserves one!).
So, in honor of one of the most lovable characters in the Disney cinematic universe, I am listing down three reasons why Charlotte deserves the title of “everyone’s favorite sidekick”.
She is one of the funniest characters in the film
Just from the start of the movie, you could already tell that she was a quirky character. And her overdramatic demeanor and crazy responses to events gave the film its much-needed comic relief.
One of her funniest moments was her reaction to seeing Prince Naveen for the first time. In the scene, she immediately stopped crying, touched up her makeup, and went down the staircase like the queen she truly is.
And sure, Louis was entertaining but Charlotte was the one that gave viewers all the laughs in the film.
She treated Tiana like her equal
Charlotte and Tiana obviously came from two different social classes. Charlotte was the daughter of a sugar baron and could buy almost anything she wanted, while Tiana’s family worked hard just to make ends meet. And yet despite their differences, Charlotte always treated Tiana as her friend and her equal.
In fact, when Tiana’s dress got ruined at the party, Charlotte generously lent Tiana one of her dresses. She even completed the look by placing a tiara on Tiana’s head–prompting Prince Naveen to think Tiana was a princess.
Now, I know some people have wondered why didn’t she just give Tiana the money to start her restaurant. To explain this, I found a video from YouTuber Story Diver that explains how Charlotte and her father may have possibly offered Tiana the money. However, given Tiana’s can-do attitude and belief that to get what she wants, she must work hard for it, Tiana must have denied the offer and chose to save up for her dream restaurant.
I believe this theory is highly probable considering Charlotte’s final act of kindness in the film (which I will talk about in the next section).
She selflessly gave up her dream of marrying a prince to help a friend
When Charlotte finds out about Tiana’s true feelings for Naveen, she immediately gives up her dream of marrying the prince and without hesitation, kisses Naveen in an effort to break the curse. This is evidenced in the movie when she tells Tiana, “I’ll kiss him for you, honey. No marriage required.”
This selfless act of friendship on her part shows that she is more than just the “spoiled, rich girl” that everyone makes her out to be. She has a heart of gold and she is one that deeply cares for her loved ones.
All of these reasons put together is what makes Charlotte such a great character. And I hope you will include her in your list of favorite sidekicks!
C. Militar Writes 