22 Facts About Tantor (Tarzan)

Tantor is a major character in Disney’s animated film, Tarzan.

Tantor is a lovable and comedic elephant who becomes Tarzan’s loyal friend and sidekick throughout their adventures in the jungle.

Tantor was voiced by actor Wayne Knight.

You may recognize Wayne Knight as the actor who portrayed Newman in the hit TV series Seinfeld. His distinct voice brought Tantor to life with humor and personality.

Tantor made his first appearance in the 1999 film, Tarzan.

This animated adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic story introduced audiences to Tantor’s endearing character in a whole new way.

Tantor is known for his incredible sense of smell.

Particular to elephants, Tantor’s keen olfactory abilities make him an integral part of Tarzan’s jungle adventures, sniffing out danger and helping the group navigate their surroundings.

Tantor is easily scared.

Despite his large size, Tantor is easily frightened by the smallest of creatures and often panics in comical and exaggerated ways, providing moments of lightheartedness in the film.

Tantor’s fear of termites is a recurring theme in the movie.

Throughout the film, Tantor’s phobia of termites is a source of comedic relief. His exaggerated reactions to these tiny insects add an element of comedy to the story.

Tantor’s character was inspired by a character from the original Tarzan novels.

In Edgar Rice Burroughs’ novels, a young Tarzan befriends a historically feared and dangerous elephant named Tantor. The film adaptation took inspiration from this character and gave it a unique twist.

Tantor serves as the voice of reason for Tarzan.

While Tarzan is known for his impulsive and adventurous nature, Tantor often offers a more cautious perspective, balancing out the group’s decision-making and providing a voice of reason.

Tantor’s design was influenced by African elephants.

The animators at Disney studied the movements and characteristics of African elephants to create Tantor’s design, ensuring that he looked and behaved like a realistic elephant.

Tantor has a signature trumpet call.

When Tantor gets particularly excited or scared, he lets out a loud trumpet call that echoes through the jungle, adding to the charm and whimsy of his character.

Tantor has a heart of gold.

Despite his fears and anxieties, Tantor is a loyal friend who genuinely cares for Tarzan and their jungle family. He often overcomes his fears to protect those he loves.

Tantor’s size adds physical comedy to the film.

As one of the largest characters in the movie, Tantor’s size and weight are often played for comedic effect. His clumsiness and exaggerated movements generate laughs throughout the film.

Tantor is known for his love of water.

Tantor enjoys cooling off in watering holes and playing in streams, providing moments of fun and relaxation amidst the exciting and sometimes dangerous events of the story.

Tantor’s tusks are prominent features of his design.

Tantor’s long, curved tusks are iconic and contribute to his distinctive appearance. They are based on the tusks of African elephants, adding to his realistic portrayal.

Tantor is part of Tarzan’s extended animal family.

Alongside characters like Terk the gorilla and Kala the motherly ape, Tantor represents a diverse and unique group of animals that form Tarzan’s supportive and loving family in the jungle.

Tantor’s comedic moments provide levity in intense scenes.

Amidst the action and tension of Tarzan’s journey, Tantor’s humorous antics lighten the mood and offer brief respites of laughter for the audience.

Tantor is known for his appetite.

Tantor’s love for food is showcased throughout the film, often resulting in comical scenes where he devours large quantities of fruit or snacks on jungle foliage.

Tantor’s loyalty is unwavering.

When Tarzan and his friends face challenges or conflicts, Tantor stands by their side, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty and dedication to the group.

Tantor’s character provides comic relief in intense moments.

In scenes filled with tension or danger, Tantor’s humorous reactions and lines offer a welcomed break from the seriousness and add a touch of lightness to the film.

Tantor’s ears are expressive.

Like real elephants, Tantor’s ears are large and highly mobile. The animators used this characteristic to convey his emotions and add depth to his expressions and reactions.

Tantor’s friendship with Terk is endearing.

Tantor and Terk share a close bond and often engage in playful banter. Their contrasting personalities create amusing dynamics and memorable moments in the film.

Tantor’s character resonates with audiences of all ages.

Tantor’s mix of humor, loyalty, and vulnerability make him a relatable and beloved character for viewers young and old. His presence enriches the overall storytelling of Tarzan.

In conclusion, Tantor is a memorable and beloved character in Disney’s Tarzan, known for his comedic antics, loyal friendship, and endearing vulnerabilities. Through his elephant-sized heart, Tantor teaches us valuable lessons about facing fears, embracing loyalty, and finding joy in the journey. Whether he’s trumpeting through the jungle or expressing his fears, Tantor adds a touch of magic to the world of Tarzan.

Conclusion

Tantor, the lovable elephant from Disney’s Tarzan, has captured the hearts of both children and adults alike with his gentle nature and unwavering loyalty. With his towering size and endearing personality, Tantor has become an iconic character in the world of cartoons.

Throughout the Tarzan franchise, Tantor has been a loyal friend to Tarzan and Jane, providing comic relief and standing up for those he cares about. From facing his fear of water to joining Tarzan on daring adventures, Tantor has proven that courage comes in all shapes and sizes.

Whether you grew up watching the animated film or discovered Tantor through the original novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, it’s hard not to be charmed by this larger-than-life elephant. Tantor teaches us important lessons about friendship, facing our fears, and embracing our unique qualities.

So, the next time you watch Tarzan, keep an eye out for Tantor and appreciate the impact he has had on the world of cartoon characters. Tantor’s story reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected heroes can leave the biggest impression.

FAQs

1. Who voices Tantor in Tarzan?

Tantor is voiced by actor Wayne Knight in the animated film Tarzan.

2. What kind of elephant is Tantor?

Tantor is a fictional African forest elephant in the Tarzan franchise.

3. How tall is Tantor?

Although Tantor’s exact height is not specified, he is portrayed as a large, imposing elephant in the Tarzan movies and series.

4. What is Tantor’s role in Tarzan?

Tantor serves as one of Tarzan’s closest animal friends and accompanies him on various adventures throughout the franchise. His comedic personality provides levity amidst the action.

5. Does Tantor appear in any other Tarzan adaptations?

Yes, Tantor also appears in other Tarzan adaptations, including the original novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs and the Broadway musical adaptation.

6. How does Tantor conquer his fear of water?

Tantor conquers his fear of water in the first Tarzan film when he accidentally falls into a pool and realizes that it’s not as scary as he initially thought.

7. Does Tantor have any special abilities?

While Tantor is not portrayed as having any supernatural abilities, he does possess remarkable strength and a keen sense of loyalty.

8. What is Tantor’s personality like?

Tantor is portrayed as timid and easily frightened, but also kind-hearted, loyal, and protective of his friends.

9. Does Tantor have any memorable quotes?

One of Tantor’s most memorable quotes is “I’m Tarzan. King of the jungle!” which he says while wearing a makeshift crown in the original Tarzan film.

10. Why do fans love Tantor so much?

Fans love Tantor for his endearing personality, comedic moments, and his unwavering loyalty to his friends. He adds an extra layer of charm and humor to the Tarzan story.