Friday the 13th: The Best Black Cats in Pop Culture

Thirteen is my favorite number — but not a lot of people feel that way. Throughout many English-speaking countries, 13 is considered an unlucky number. Friday the 13th is an especially inauspicious date. Likewise, black cats are regarded as omens. Black cats allegedly signify misfortunate and mayhem, and if one crosses your path, you’re doomed. But if a black cat wanders in my direction today, I’ll simply coax it into my arms and give it a few tasty treats. That’s because black cats are just as unique and wonderful as felines with different fur colors.

Still on the metaphorical fence about these bewitching beauties? You’ve probably seen many a black cat pop up in your favorite television shows, movies, and more. These dark-haired kitties can teach kids and even adults to leave behind antiquated prejudices and superstitions. Let’s meet the best of the beasts below.

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Salem (Sabrina the Teenage Witch)

When it comes to sassy black cats, Salem Saberhagen from Sabrina the Teenage Witch is the king. He always has some diabolical words of wisdom for Sabrina as she navigates life as a teen trying to understand witchcraft. However, Salem’s advice should aways be taken with a grain of salt. After all, he did try to take over the world when he was a warlock — which is why he must exist as a cat to atone for his crimes. If spooky demonic familiars are more your thing, check out the less-talkative Salem from Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.

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Umbreon (Pokémon)

Alright, so Umbreon isn’t actually a cat. Umbreon is a Pokémon, or a member of a large range of diverse creatures. However, fans often ascribe feline aesthetics and characteristics to Umbreon as well as the rest of the Eevee evolutions. After all, it has black coloring, four legs, and pointed ears and teeth. It also falls under the Dark Type category, and people most often associate black cats with darkness, spookiness, et cetera. Therefore, Umbreon gets a spot on this list.

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Luna (Sailor Moon)

What if your animal companion could also advise and assist you? Luna from Sailor Moon is a mentor to the Sailor Senshi. Strict and quick to judge, Luna embodies many of the stereotypical black cat traits. But it could be said she also fits the archetype of any teacher to a gaggle of magical girls. As is the case with many real-world cats, Luna can vacillate between being very stern and serious to downright silly. She is a romantic at heart who loves cuddles — but she also takes a long time to warm up to strangers.

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Jiji (Kiki’s Delivery Service)

No black cat listicle is complete without Jiji! This anime character comes from Studio Ghibli’s film Kiki’s Delivery Service. Jiji is the titular witch’s magical companion. He accompanies her while she trains to become a full-fledged witch. Jiji is sweet and curious, and he even enjoys when he sees mugs painted with black cats. However, Jiji’s personality changes drastically between the original Japanese and American dub. Japanese audiences meet a cautious and humble familiar, whereas Americans see a sarcastic and chatty cat.

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Black Cat (Marvel)

It’s probable you’ve already heard of this Marvel antihero since she’s often trying her luck against Spider-Man. In fact, Felicia Hardy and Spider-Man have a bit of a will-they-won’t-they to their relationship. Some say they’re even a good match, since each represents what the other could be in an alternate universe, without the constraints of their usual roles in society. Still, Black Cat always plays by her own rules and that’s why she never stays caught in anybody’s web for long.

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Binx (Hocus Pocus)

Thackery Binx, what took thee so long? When you’re cursed by three horrible witches, time really has a way of escaping. Fortunately, Binx encounters Max, Dani, and Allison, who help him vanquish the Sanderson Sisters’ hold on the town of Salem. He’s never afraid to call out his friends on bad behavior but he also sticks by them to the very end. Just don’t call him a house cat.

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Chococat (Sanrio)

Chococat is a lesser known member of the Hello Kitty family.  He has black fur, a blue collar, and a dark brown nose — the reason for his sweet name. The official Sanrio website describes him as a bit scatterbrained but very attentive! That’s all thanks to his ultra-sensitive antennae whiskers. Chococat loves playing with his friends, including duckies, dogs, bunnies, and hamsters. So, whenever someone tells you black cats are unfriendly and elusive, you have a prime rebuttal with this candy-colored cutie.

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Who are your favorite black cats in pop culture? If you’re feline like it, discuss those purrfect picks with more fans at side.show/geekgroup or in the Sideshow Social Network. And as always, don’t forget to Let Your Spooky — er, Geek — Sideshow!