Pines Family

Twins, uncles, and a pig named Waddles solve mysteries in Oregon.

The Pines family anchors the animated series Gravity Falls, centered on twin siblings Mabel and Dipper who spend their summer with their great-uncle Stan at the Mystery Shack in Gravity Falls, Oregon. Designed by creator Alex Hirsch based on his own sister Ariel, Mabel is voiced by Kristen Schaal and serves as one of the show's two main protagonists alongside her brother. The pair stars in every episode, navigating supernatural mysteries while helping Stan run his tourist trap.

Quick Facts

Primary location

Gravity Falls, Oregon

Key members

Dipper Pines
Mabel Pines
Stanley Pines

Base of operations

The Mystery Shack

Lore & Background

The twins' adventures are directly inspired by the childhood of Alex Hirsch and his twin sister Ariel. Mabel first appeared in an unreleased pilot created by Hirsch in 2010 to pitch the show before debuting officially in "Tourist Trapped." While she is a self-proclaimed arts and crafts master who once crafted a wax figure of Stan from melted leftovers, she is also intelligent and determined, often looking out for Dipper. Mabel won her pet pig Waddles in the episode "The Time Traveler's Pig" and plays a pivotal role in all three battles against the main antagonist, Bill Cipher. Hirsch notes that while Mabel acts like a "ham," she understands danger and is secretly jealous of Dipper's academic success.

Reader's Guide

To understand Mabel Pines, recognize she is more than just comic relief; she is a protector who balances goofing off with genuine care for her brother. She stars in every episode alongside Dipper and appears in dedicated shorts like "Mabel's Guide to Life." Her voice actor, Kristen Schaal, was creator Alex Hirsch's first choice from the start. Mabel's character reflects Ariel Hirsch, while Dipper reflects Alex. Key moments include winning Waddles the pig and fighting Bill Cipher without whom Dipper has no chance of victory. She wears various colorful sweaters and maintains a close bond with Grunkle Stan, who is often protective of her.

Did You Know?

Mabel and Dipper turn 13 years old at the end of the series finale.
Mabel stars in two dedicated short series: "Mabel's Guide to Life" and "Mabel's Scrapbook."