Velma

Velma Dinkley is a fictional character in the Scooby-Doo franchise. She is a member of Mystery Inc., typically portrayed as the team's rational investigator who uses observation, pattern recognition, and research to unravel mysteries alongside Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Daphne, and Fred.

She first appeared in 1969 in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!, created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera for Hanna-Barbera. Across many adaptations, Velma is depicted as intelligent, curious, and unafraid to challenge assumptions. Her catchphrase "Jinkies!" is commonly associated with her.

Her appearance is characterized by short brown hair, square glasses, and a practical outfit—most often an orange turtleneck and a red skirt in classic iterations. This look has become a recognizable branding element for the character in many animated versions.

Portrayals: In animation, Velma has been voiced by several actors since the character’s debut; notable live-action portrayal was by Linda Cardellini in the 2002 film Scooby-Doo. The character also appears in various animated reboots and adaptations, including traditional series and newer formats, which have varied in tone and emphasis while preserving her role as the group’s problem-solver.

Impact: Velma is one of the earliest prominent female investigators in American animation and a recurring central figure in the Scooby-Doo lineup. Over decades, her portrayal has evolved with changes in animation styles and storytelling, contributing to ongoing discussions about gender representation in animated media.