Baloo

Baloo (バルー, Barū) is a character in Kingdom Hearts χ. He is a bear who resides in the jungle and is Mowgli's best friend.

Story

Kingdom Hearts χ

Baloo's power was channelled by the Book of Prophecies to create the Mowgli & Baloo and Mowgli & Pals medals.

Origins

Inspired by the character from Rudyard Kipling's 1894 story collection The Jungle Book, Baloo made his Disney debut in the book's 1967 animated adaptation, voiced by the late television actor Phil Harris. In the film, he encounters Mowgli and befriends the "man-cub," teaching him his philosophy of enjoying the bare necessities of life. When Mowgli is abducted by King Louie, Baloo rescues Mowgli and tries to tell him that the man village is best for Mowgli's safety, only for Mowgli to storm off. Eventually, Baloo aids Mowgli in battling Shere Khan, triumphing in the process. Baloo watches as Mowgli finally returns to the man village before disappearing into the jungle.

Outside of the film, he has also appeared in the film's sequel and the 1994 and 2016 live-action remakes. Notably, he also appeared as the protagonist of the animated series TaleSpin.