The Powerpuff Girls

In the original series, the villain Him is consistently portrayed with an androgynous appearance, wearing a red tutu and thigh-high boots, a full face of makeup, and speaking in a high-pitched, effeminate voice that shifts to a deep, masculine growl when enraged. Academic analysis and fan communities often interpret Him as a queer-coded character, representing a non-heteronormative identity. In the 2016 reboot, the Season 1 episode 'Horn, Sweet Horn' features Donny, a pony who identifies as a unicorn and undergoes a magical transformation, which was widely seen as an allegory for transgender identity, although its execution received criticism for portraying the transformed character as a monster. Additionally, in the 2016 reboot episode 'Once Upon a Townsville,' Buttercup shares a prominent, on-the-mouth kiss with another female character, marking an explicit instance of same-sex romance in the series.

Combat scenes are central to nearly every episode, involving punching, kicking, and various superpowers used against villains and their destructive plans. For instance, in an early pilot episode, the girls are depicted cooking and eating one of their opponents, though this was later toned down for the main series. The episode 'Getting Twiggy With It' features a disturbing sequence where a class pet hamster, Twiggy, is intentionally tormented by Mitch Michelson before mutating into a giant monster, showcasing unsettling animal abuse. In 'Speed Demon,' a dystopian future Townsville is shown to be a desolate wasteland ruled by Him after the girls' disappearance, with implied death and ruin for many characters like the Mayor, suggesting dire consequences of inaction.

Villains occasionally exhibit mildly suggestive behavior or dialogue. For example, in 'Powerpuff Bluff,' the Three Crooks refer to Ms. Bellum as 'sweet cheeks' and are shown gawking at her, highlighting a sexist objectification. In the 2016 reboot episode 'Once Upon a Townsville,' Buttercup engages in a direct, open-mouthed kiss with another female character, a significant moment of same-sex romantic expression. Professor Utonium has some mild romantic interests, such as his relationship with Ms. Keane, but these are typically innocent and not central to the plot.

The Powerpuff Girls, while heroic, sometimes display mild acts of rebellion or backtalk towards Professor Utonium or other adults, particularly when they feel their methods are being questioned. This is typically presented humorously. More significantly, the show’s core message of 'Girl Power' itself reflects a rebellion against traditional expectations of femininity, showcasing girls who are physically strong and independent. Villains like Mojo Jojo and Him are inherently rebellious, constantly challenging the authority of the Mayor and the established order of Townsville, with Him openly mocking and undermining societal structures.