What Classic Disney Characters Would Look Like In Real Life

By: Calla Conway | Published: Nov 16, 2023

Not to be dramatic like Prince Eric, but who doesn’t love Disney? For most of us, it speaks to our childhood. Most of these characters have become icons in our lives, and we remember each of them in a special, memorable way.

But have you ever imagined or been curious about how they would look if they were real people? Let us look at some of the best portraits of our beloved Disney characters as real people created by Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen. Just sit back, and enjoy these amazing artistic creations.

1. Ariel from The Little Mermaid

Ariel from The Little Mermaid is independent, rebellious, slightly stubborn, and not afraid to speak her mind. She is also a go-getter, since she always takes action whenever she has a plan, even if it seems a bit ridiculous.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Ariel’s story is an emblem of youth. She is not just inspiring, but she also has the most romantic true love story that you still dream of having. Who wouldn’t love someone who can give everything to be with you? In this image, the artist captured her innocence perfectly. No matter how we try to resist, we can’t get enough of this legendary portrait.

2. Princess Jasmine from Aladdin

How sweet would it be to think that Princess Jasmine from the movie Aladdin existed in the real world? We can’t help but imagine this gorgeous, iconic princess in real life. Princess Jasmine is famous for her no-nonsense, with zero reliance on anyone who tries to undermine her. Despite being forbidden within the palace, Princess Jasmine rejects her royal life to marry the “street-rat” Aladdin.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Princess Jasmine is a beautiful, slender, young girl with brown eyes full of natural lashes, and straight hair reaching her thighs. This artistic portrayal of the fictional character is just as stunning as we had imagined.

3. Tarzan from Tarzan

Everybody in the universe loves the legendary Tarzan, no matter how old they are. If you haven’t watched the animation film Tarzan, you have to watch this nostalgic film with amusing characters and a fantastic soundtrack.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

It is fair to say that the artist here was pretty accurate while drawing this Tarzan image. His muscular appearance, six-pack, and innocence makes all of us feel like we should go live in the jungle.

4. Queen Elsa from Frozen

Queen Elsa of Arendelle was born with the power of ice and snow. Her fate was to be an evil queen with an army of snow monsters. Well, that was according to the prophecy, but she turned out to be an innocent, loving, beautiful, and hard-working queen. Even her kingdom loved and embraced her. Despite her being an amazing queen, deep down in her heart, she couldn’t help but wonder why she was born with powers.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Did you know that in the early draft of the film, she stood up at the altar on her wedding day and froze her heart so that she could never feel love ever again? Here we see the protagonist in a beautiful, sophisticated portrait.

5. Belle from Beauty and the Beast

In many people’s opinion, Belle is the most beautiful Disney princess. But unlike what you would expect, she doesn’t seem to care so much about her looks. She loves reading books, and that makes her even more appealing and inspirational for most of us.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Look at Belle’s flawless appearance here. We don’t know how the artist could do such impeccable work highlighting her innocence, beauty, and personality all in one portrait.

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6. Prince Eric from The Little Mermaid

Eric is a hopeless, romantic, handsome man who is curious about the existence of his true love. After being rescued by a mysterious girl, Ariel, he immediately falls in love with her voice. After he gets well, he makes finding Ariel his primary goal.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

He risks his life to prove his romance and commitment to her, proclaiming he does not want to lose her ever again. With Eric’s light blue eyes, fair skin, short black hair, and romantic gestures, who wouldn’t be jealous of Ariel?

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7. Moana from Moana

Moana is another protagonist from Disney films. We all love Moana. She is slightly muscular with beautiful brown eyes, black hair, a small cute nose, and a good waist. Her red cropped top and her coconut fiber dress with a golden sun pattern and red sash around her waist show she cares about her looks.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

In the film, Moana is portrayed as a confident, kind hearted, unselfish girl. She disobeys her father by going into the ocean and sailing away to another island to seek help from Maui so that she can save her village from the great darkness. Here Moana is depicted as a beautiful Polynesian woman.

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8. Peter Pan from Peter Pan

In the animated feature film, Peter Pan is portrayed as having the best leadership qualities. He is the leader of the Lost Boys, and he’s always excited about enjoying his never-ending childhood.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

He is also lucky to have Tinker Bell as a companion, who protects him from anyone in disguise and also saves him from his carelessness. In this image, the artist perfectly shows the mischievousness in his eyes and his careless, young attitude.

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9. Mulan from Mulan

Mulan is the 1998 Disney flag bearer, and in the film, she is portrayed as a free-spirited outcast who cannot follow the rules or traditions. But besides this, she has a warm, kind heart, and she wants nothing more than to uphold her family honor. Mulan inspires most of us who are tied to our traditions and thoughts.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

The artist paid close attention to detail in this drawing. He was able to capture her beautiful, round face and her rosy cheeks. As a result, you can see she looks a little bit unfocused and naïve.

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10. Snow White from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

We all know Snow White, the first Disney heroine. On top of that, she is the first princess in the Disney princess line-up, and her character helped shape the later heroines like Cinderella and Elsa. Since childhood, the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs has been a historical piece of cinema and storytelling.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Snow White is famous for her kindness and optimism, one of her greatest strengths. In this image, the artist did an excellent job of highlighting her flawless beauty from her glossy red as rose lips, black hair, and white as snow skin.

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11. Eugene Fitzherbert / Flynn Rider from Tangled

Eugene Fitzherbert also known as Flynn Rider from Tangled is one of the toughest, never quitting, and enduring characters that Disney has ever created. Despite all that, he is also a trouble-making, notorious, and backstabbing thief. He has never experienced a change of mind or heart until falling in love with Rapunzel, the lost princess.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Most of us have probably felt the urge to quit, but not the famous and handsome Flynn Rider. His compelling personality is one of the greatest things we all admire, and we love seeing him drawn realistically.

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12. Jane from Tarzan

Jane from Tarzan is a gorgeous, charismatic, and curious ethnologist who travels to Africa where she meets a handsome wild man, Tarzan, whom she eventually falls in love with. Based on her coming from a royal family in England, Jane seems to have a sense of standards. She is respectful and appreciates responsibility.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Jane from Tarzan is a young woman in her early 20s with fair skin, blue eyes, and long brown hair. Everything about her looks stunning, but we can’t help but admire her attractive aqua eyes in this rendering.

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13. Tinker Bell from Peter Pan

Tinker Bell is a sassy fairy with a bell voice, a sharp tongue, and a fair companion to Peter Pan. She loved Peter jealousy and intensely. She despises any girl that claims to have affection for Peter.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

It is amazing how the artist highlighted the beauty, curvy body shape, and the magical blue eyes of Tinker Bell.

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14. Aladdin from Aladdin

Aladdin is famously known as Prince Ali Ababwa, and he is the main flag bearer of the film Aladdin franchise. In the film, he was portrayed as coming from a poor upbringing, and he used to scrap food and run from guards with his monkey sidekick, Abu. But despite his upbringing, he is an optimistic, fun-loving, hard-working, and handsome character.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Honestly, we all admire how Aladdin struggled to change his life from nothing to something. It would be fascinating to see him in real life, pretending to be Prince Ali Ababwa.

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15. Princess Anna from Frozen

Can you hear Princess Anna’s sweet, soothing voice through this portrait? And how realistic are her innocent-looking, attractive eyes? Princess Anna is just a beautiful, energetic character with unwavering optimism. Anna doesn’t like to be alone, and as a result, she’d do anything to ensure her family in Arendelle is safe.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

In this portrait, the artist did an amazing job capturing her character while keeping her look realistic.

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16. Esmeralda from The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Esmeralda is a Romanian woman residing underneath the Paris catacombs known as the Court of Miracles. She works as an entertainer and a dancer on the streets during professional events. In most cases, she is accompanied by her goat Dali, who acts as her favorite pet.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Esmeralda has a cunning personality and a beautiful appearance with her long black hair, green eyes, and a strikingly erotic looks. Disney was truly determined to ensure that Esmeralda would remain one of our favorite characters.

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17. Hercules from Hercules

Hercules is one of the best god-like characters ever created by Disney. Hercules is the son of Zeus and Hera, and his God characteristics make him strong, wise, optimistic and determined. Even when he is outmatched physically and mentally, he stands firm on his ground to prove he is not afraid. His story is an ever-growing inspirational tale for that there are hero qualities within all of us.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Kudos to the artist. He was able to showcase Hercules’ softer side in this contemplative pose as despite his superhuman strength, Hercules was raised as a human with human flaws and emotions.

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18. Pocahontas from Pocahontas

Pocahontas loves nature, and she spends most of her time exploring the land. However, after she fell in love with John Smith, she discovered her purpose in life, and in the animated film, it was up to her to bring peace to her people. In the film, she is portrayed as a free-spirited, noble young woman who is wise beyond her years.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

If you think you have a strong and tough heart, only Pocahontas’s blink of her beautiful eyes is enough to make your heart soft as cotton. And wouldn’t you want to have such a beautiful, wise young woman beside you as a spouse or friend?

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19. Rapunzel from Tangled

Rapunzel is a charming princess of Corona. She has beautiful, long blonde hair, greenish eyes, and a gorgeous smile. She is characterized by her kindness, loving heart, and her curiosity. Her character in the film leaves us with a dream of having a friend like her in our lives.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Is it not amazing how the artist was able to show almost all of Rapunzel’s impeccable qualities through this portrait? If she existed in reality, we would definitely want to be associated with her in all ways possible.

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20. Hades from Hercules

If you don’t know who Hades from Hercules is, then you have been missing out on the comedic yet evil villain that Hades is. In the film, Hades is the ruler of the underworld, pain, and panic. He is also Hercules’s uncle and arch-nemesis, as well as Zeus’ brother.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

No matter how old you are, it is impossible not to want someone in the real world who is as funny as Hades. But, of course, his evil and oppressive side is something less than desirable.

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21. Captain Li Shang from Mulan

Captain Li Shang from Mulan is a mighty, no-nonsense, steadfast warrior who protects lives and does not bully anyone. He is always number one when it comes to extensive knowledge of training techniques. Despite all his success, he is shy and lacks social skills as he seems to have trouble telling Mulan his romantic feelings for her.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Let’s agree. The artist did an excellent job with this portrait, showing Li Shang’s dashing, muscular looks, strong physique, and determined personality. For this reason, the lucky Mulan couldn’t resist letting Li Shang off her mind even after following the Mantra of “my duty is to my heart.”

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22. Ursula from The Little Mermaid

The artist’s vision of Ursula is impeccable in every sense. Look at those fierce eyes and that devilish smile. This picture perfectly illustrates why the abhorrent ocean witch is viewed as probably the best antagonist ever. Ursula (otherwise known as the Sea Witch) is the principal enemy of Disney’s 1989 film, The Little Mermaid.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

She is a wretched Cecaelia (half-woman, half-octopus) who strikes deals with poor merfolk with the guarantee of making their fantasies materialize. Ursula’s deals, however, are always intended to further her own pursuits at the expense of the sad souls she manipulates.

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23. Cinderella from Cinderella

Cinderella is another charming character we’d love to live as. Despite her coming from a wealthy family, Cinderella is famous for her kindness and loving heart, unlike that of her cruel stepmother. For most of us, Cinderella is an inspiring story for when we are facing challenges and cruelty.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

In this portrait, the artist did an impeccable job highlighting her personality and flawless beauty from her pink lips, blonde hair, and attractive blue eyes. You must agree that Cinderella has one of the most romantic love stories we all have dreamt of having.

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24. John Smith from Pocahontas

In this portrait, he looks so real and handsome. I guess that is another reason why Pocahontas risked her life and disobeyed her father for John Smith. She also traveled to a new world to move on with John Smith and leave her tradition behind.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Don’t worry. Nobody will judge you if you develop a crush from this portrait. This gorgeous, realistic image appears as if the mighty John Smith is looking right into your soul.

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25. Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty

Princess Aurora is the only daughter of queen Leah and King Stefan. She was cursed to die by the evil Maleficent who sought revenge from King Stefan who cut her wings while she was asleep.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Only a kiss of true love would break Aurora’s curse. Prince Phillip was the one to awake the princess, and that’s when we got to see this beautiful young woman as depicted here.

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26. Kristoff from Frozen

Kristoff is a handsome hunk with blonde hair, attractive brown eyes, and a good body physique. A colony of trolls raised him, and if we judge him based on his personality, we can only say they raised him well.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

In this portrait, the artist did a good job highlighting his personality and how he would look in real life. The portrait makes him look both friendly and a bit goofy which is exactly how this kind soul was portrayed in the film.

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27. Megara from Hercules

Megara served as a minion of Hades, the God of the Underworld. Megara is a free-spirited, independent, and easy-going woman who can take care of herself. She had her heart broken by her boyfriend in the past, and she became cynical, snarky, and developed a low opinion of men.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

We all have to agree that Hercules was truly a lucky hero. He gets almost all the good stuff for himself, including Megara, a beautiful young woman who would do anything for love, including selling her soul. Here Megara is depicted with her sultry yet sassy looks that truly make her a compelling character.

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28. Jafar from Aladdin

Needless to say, the artist effectively captivated the dark side of Jafar in this picture. We can see the evilness of the heartless villain here. As Royal Vizier of Agrabah, he was introduced as the Sultan’s trusted and faithful guide. In truth, the imperious Jafar held deep contempt for the Sultan.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

He committed his life to finding the fabled lamp that contains an almighty genie. Jafar was a grandiose figure who desired nothing but power, which he would use to take over the throne, and after that, the world. 

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29. Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty

This is an astonishing portrait of an evil fairy that utilizes malevolent wizardry in retribution for not being welcomed to the christening of Princess Aurora. Who would’ve thought they’d select Angelina Jolie to play such a dark and evil character? Maleficent gives off an impression of being especially derisive of Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, her kindhearted opponents. 

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

With her dark schemes, wild emotions, and a limitless stockpile of magical powers at her disposal, Maleficent is quite possibly the most dangerous of the Disney villains.

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30. Prince Adam from Beauty and the Beast

As the animated film starts, Prince Adam appears cruel, selfish, and with no love in his heart. Because of his awful character, he was cursed by an enchantress as a punishment. However, after falling in love with Belle, he changed his ways and became a gentle, caring, and loving person. We all love the Beast by the end of the film.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

His charming and stunning looks may seem intimidating, but we learn that there is a kind heart deep down. Most men would be grateful that he does not exist in real life after seeing this portrait.

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31. Tiana from The Princess and The Frog

In this portrait we see Tiana from The Princess and The Frog, looking fabulous with her attractive eyes, full eyelashes, and long dark hair.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Tiana is a self-starter who believes that her hard work can make her wildest dreams come true as she desires to open a successful restaurant of her own. This portrait captures Tiana’s positive spirit and perseverance through that big, confident smile of hers.

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32. Captain Hook from Peter Pan

Captain Hook never looked so real. This picture shows the wrathful, merciless, and insatiable side of the bloodthirsty commander of the Jolly Roger. While he is a commendable rival for Peter Pan, Hook is bound to fail. Peter Pan’s capacity to fly gives him the upper hand (literally), and Hook will always be at the mercy of the blundering inadequacy of his first mate, Mr. Smee. 

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

His shenanigans with the crocodile are considered by many people to be the most interesting scenes made by Disney. Indeed, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston say as much in their book, The Disney Villain.

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33. Nakoma from Pocahontas

Nakoma from Pocahontas is one of the simplest characters; all she wanted was to be Pocahontas’ best friend. She is free-spirited and optimistic, yet tries to be responsible and serious. In some cases, she acts as the voice of Pocahontas. However, at some point, she gets a warning when she tries to stop Pocahontas from going to see her love interest, John Smith.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Nakoma is not just a beautiful and simple girl. She is also an adoring person who wants the best for her friend. We all wish to have a true friend like Nakoma who cares about us and wishes the best for us.

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34. Prince Charming from Cinderella

Prince Charming’s looks in this portrait, exceeds our expectations. He looks handsome and one you could dance with all night long. He also appears smart, not only physically in this portrait, but also in the film. Prince Charming is famous for his romantic commitment towards Cinderella.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

From this portrait it is undeniably apparent that he is truly charming and a person you would love to be associated with. It’s no wonder why every girl in town was trying to claim that the glass slipper was theirs.

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35. Merida from Brave

Honestly, most of us did not think that the Scottish princess and the daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor would look so beautiful in real life.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

In this portrait, she is perfectly portrayed as a brave, free-spirited, beautiful young girl similar to what we see in the film. What do you think about this portrait?

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36. Prince Phillip from Sleeping Beauty

Here comes the one who will sweep girls off their feet before he says even a single word—Prince Philips from Sleeping Beauty. Prince Phillip has a muscular, slim physique, brown hair, lighter, attractive brown eyes, and on top of that, he seems to have a sense and taste for fashion. He is famous for being brave, persuasive, and heroic, but also seems to be easy-going.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

This incredible drawing of Prince Phillip is worth staring at. Nobody will blame you for nearly popping your eyes out of your head after seeing him appear so realistically.

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37. Mother Gothel from Tangled

This is an ideal picture of Rapunzel’s mother-turned-enemy. Her expressive eyes and deceptive smile capture the nature of the character perfectly. Mother Gothel is a mischievous hag who held youth for many years through the recuperating properties of an enchanted flower. 

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

When the flower’s forces were moved to the hair of Rapunzel, Gothel seized the princess and locked her in a secret tower. To know what happened next, we suggest watching Tangled from start to finish. 

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38. Prince Naveen from The Princess and The Frog

If you have watched The Princess And The Frog, do you remember the awkward moment when Prince Naveen as a frog says, “I am Prince Naveen,” as his pick-up line and gets smashed by a book? Oh, how that scene makes us laugh.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Prince Naveen cannot help himself from bragging to everyone that he is the most charming and handsome man to exist. But with this portrait, perhaps he had every right to feel this way. We definitely wish he existed in real life.

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39. Ursula’s Alter Ego Vanessa from The Little Mermaid

Look at this portrait. It is easy to understand why Ursula could easily brainwash Prince Eric into loving “Vanessa” instead of Ariel.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

With a slender, attractive young look like this, we must congratulate the artist for being spot-on in depicting Ursula’s alter ego here. Most girls are rejoicing that she doesn’t exist in real life because her iconic beauty definitely has brainwashing abilities.

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40. Thomas from Pocahontas

Thomas is John Smith’s sidekick, fellow soldier, and best friend in Pocahontas. Besides that, he is a handsome, cheerful, respectful, and caring companion.

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

From this remarkable work, we can quickly capture the innocent and caring side of Thomas. We all agree that we would want to have a friend like him.

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41. Cruella De Vil from 101 Dalmatians

You realize an expert in his craft has made remarkable work when he can catch the evilness of the fashion-fixated heiress known as the Devil Woman. The artist included many intricate details, such as her yellow-colored teeth from smoking. It truly is stunning work!

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Cruella De Vil is the principal villain of Disney’s 1961 101 Dalmatians. Obsessed with eccentric fashion, she wishes to utilize the skins of 99 Dalmatian pups to make a spotted fur coat. Viewed as a “witch” and “demon lady,” Cruella’s fascination with fur pushes her to dangerous heights of wickedness.

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42. Kocoum from Pocahontas

What can we say? The artist perfectly captured Kocoum’s signature serious look. Kocoum is Chief Powhatan’s most powerful warrior, and he battled fearlessly in the conflict against the Massawomecks. The handsome Native American warrior rarely smiles, hence the serious image. 

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Kocoum became Powhatan’s assistant following his bravery in battle. He appears to genuinely love Pocahontas. However, when he sees that she cherishes John Smith, he is devoured by desire and assaults John, even hurting Pocahontas. 

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43. Lady Tremaine from Cinderella

Known as Cinderella’s wicked stepmom, Lady Tremaine is barbarous, eager for power, and manipulative. This portrait is nothing short of precision, showing Lady Tremaine’s evil nature and disdain for Cinderella. As the heartless stepmother, Lady Tremaine doesn’t go after her stepdaughter directly, nor does she use violence. Instead, her actions are far more insidious. 

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Lady Tremaine tries to rebuff and attack Cinderella mentally, propelled by her envy of the girl’s lovely nature which stands in stark contrast to the personalities of her own troublesome girls, Anastasia and Drizella. We’re sure Cinderella fans will still adore this stunning pic of the cold-hearted villain. 

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44. Alice from Alice In Wonderland

We don’t know anyone who doesn’t adore Alice in Wonderland. Here is a picture that will transform your memory of her. The artist did an amazing job, perfectly capturing the charm and innocence of the famous Disney character. 

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

This classic look shows Alice’s characteristic blonde locks decorated with a dark lace bow. You can also see her huge blue eyes, long lashes, fair complexion, and of course, the iconic blue dress. Though we can’t see them in the painting, we know she’s also wearing those white stockings and Mary Jane shoes. 

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45. Evil Queen from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

The Evil Queen attempted to hold her position as the most attractive one of all, and that is why she set out on a quest to harm Snow White. This picture shows how beautiful and queenly she is, but there’s a hardness and a coldness to that stare.  

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Jirka Vinse Jonatan Väätäinen

Obsessed with being the most attractive one of all, the Evil Queen grew madly juelous of Snow White, the one whose excellence outperformed her own. She camouflaged herself as an elderly woman to entice Snow White into eating a poisoned apple. To learn whether the Evil Queen was successful in her dark quest, there’s nothing for it but to rewatch the Disney classic. 

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