Azrael, the cat in The Smurfs, is named after the Angel of Death from various religious traditions, particularly in Islam and Judaism. The name symbolizes punishment and misfortune, which aligns with Azrael’s role as the companion of Gargamel, the main antagonist who constantly plots to capture or harm the Smurfs.
The choice of this name adds a layer of dark humor to the cartoon—despite Azrael’s ominous name, he’s often portrayed as more of a comedic sidekick, frequently bungling Gargamel’s plans. This contrast between the name’s serious meaning and Azrael’s often clumsy demeanor makes him a memorable and entertaining character in The Smurfs universe.
