Kuzco (also known as Emperor Kuzco) is the main character and protagonist in The Emperor's New Groove and The Emperor's New School while having a minor role in Kronk's New Groove
Personality[]
Kuzco starts as a sarcastic, self-centered person, indifferent to the impact of his actions on others. Raised in luxury, he prioritizes physical appearance and popularity. His "groove," or rhythm of life, is disrupted by Yzma's evil schemes and Pacha's positive influence. Over time, Kuzco shows glimpses of compassion and larns to correct his mistakes, though he retains his sarcastic personality, he demonstrates loyalty and intelligence, often talking his way out of problems.
History[]
Past[]
Kuzco was born to the previous emperor of the Kuzconian Empire in Peru. With little memory of his mother and father presumed lost at sea, Kuzco was raised by elderly advisor Yzma until he took the throne in his teenage years.
The Emperor's New Groove[]
Kuzco grows into a selfish and controlling emperor, feared rather than respected by his subjects. Obsessed with maintaining his "groove," he reacts harshly to anyone who disrupts it, as seen when he orders the old man Rudy to be thrown out a window for simply bumping into him. After catching Yzma ruling in his absence, Kuzco fires her and Kronk. He then reveals his plan to destroy Pacha's village for a summer getaway, showing indifference to the villagers' fate.
Unbeknownst to Kuzco, Yzma and Kronk plot to kill him by poisoning his drink. Due to a mix-up, Kuzco is transformed into a llama instead. Knocked out and discarded by Kronk, he ends up on Pacha's cart. Upon waking and realizing his transformation, Kuzco demands Pacha take him back to the palace to undo the change, unaware Yzma is the cause. Ignoring Pacha's warnings, Kuzco ventures into the jungle and encounters dangers, including a pack of angry jaguars. Pacha rescues him, but Kuzco remains ungrateful and continues to demand his return to the palace. Over the course of their adventure, Kuzco begins to learn the value of kindness and teamwork, thanks in large part to Pacha’s unwavering support and friendship.
Kronk's New Groove[]
Kuzco appears as a narrator and cross-dresses to help Kronk impress his visiting father, Papi. His appearance is brief but humorous, showing his willigness to help friends.
The Emperor's New School[]
Kuzco attends Kuzco Academy to graduate and reclaim his throne while Yzma and Kronk constantly attempt to sabotage him. Throughout the series, Kuzco develops a love interest in Malina and frequently breaks the fourth wall, interacting with viewers. The series finale sees Kuzco graduate and officially regain his throne. He also strengthens his bonds with Pacha, Kronk, and Malina, and becomes Malina's boyfriend.
Relationships[]
Pacha[]
Initially sees Pacha as a mere subject. Over time, Pacha becomes a close friend and mentor, showing Kuzco the importance of kindness and selflessness.
Kronk[]
Kronk, Yzma's loyal yet good-hearted henchman, plays a complex role in Kuzco's life. Though Kronk follows Yzma's order to harm Kuzco, he ultimately saves him out of conscience. Their relationship evolves from enmity to friendship. By the end of "The Emperor's New School," Kronk becomes Kuzco’s Royal Advisor.
Malina[]
Kuzco spends much of the series trying to win Malina’s affection. Over the series, their relationship evolves frome mere attraction to a deeper, more affectionate connection. They become an official couple in the final episode.
Yzma[]
Kuzco’s former advisor turned antagonist. Their relationship is rooted in mutual disdain, especially after Kuzco fires her for attempting to usurp his power.
Quotes[]
- "Boom, baby!"
- "No touchy!"
- "I'm an emperor, and you're not."
Trivia[]
- Kuzco is named after Cusco, the Inca Empire's capital city.
- He doesn't like cheese on his potatoes, as revealed in the first film.
- His favorite treat is a Meat Mug.
- He has an obsession with "funny hats" and "fancy pants".
- He has a fear of gravity.
- He is around 18 years old.
- He loves karaoke, even if it wasn't supposed to be invented in his time.
- Before his redemption, Kuzco performed the Seven Deadly Sins.
- Pride- He cares only about himself.
- Sloth- He shows no remorse for rendering Pacha homeless.
- Gluttony- He craves palace food, especially Kronk's spinach puffs.
- Greed- He is bent on building Kuzcotopia.
- Envy- He is jealous of Yzma "ruling the country behind his back."
- Lust- He analyzes potential brides who all look exactly the same, only to reject them afterward.
- Wrath- He has Rudy thrown out for "throwing off his groove."