Merida

Princess Merida of DunBroch is the flame-haired, fiercely independent protagonist of Pixar’s 2012 animated film Brave. As the eldest daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor, this Scottish royal refuses to be bound by the traditional expectations placed upon her, preferring archery and adventure to embroidery and arranged marriages. Her wild red curls are as untameable as her spirit, making her an instantly recognisable figure in the Disney Princess lineup.

Voiced with authentic Scottish charm by Kelly Macdonald, Merida made history when she joined the Disney Princess collection in 2013. She became the first Princess created by Pixar, the only Scottish member of the group, and notably the first to remain single throughout her debut film. Her story focuses on the complex relationship with her mother, Queen Elinor, as they navigate their different views on duty, tradition, and what it means to be a true leader.

When Merida’s defiance leads to a magical catastrophe that transforms her mother into a bear, she must embark on a quest to undo the spell before it becomes permanent. Through her journey, she learns valuable lessons about family, responsibility, and the importance of understanding different perspectives whilst never compromising her essential self.

Merida’s impact extends far beyond her debut film, representing a shift towards more independent-minded Disney Princesses who forge their own paths rather than seeking romantic fulfillment as their primary goal.