Raphael, even in his humblest beginnings, is the second oldest of the four turtle brothers. He is also the one best known for his temper, which he often loses control of in the middle of a fight. He uses two sai in combat, which he usually seems to seek out. He is known for having a fierce sibling rivalry with Leonardo, and for being closer to Michelangelo than any of the other turtles.

Raphael was voiced by Rob Paulsen throughout the 1987 series and for two episodes in Season 3, he was replaced by Thom Pinto in the episode "The Ninja Sword of Nowhere" and "The Turtle Terminator". In thirteen episode side season called “Vacation in Europe”, Raphael was voiced by Hal Rayle. In the final season, Raphael was voiced by Michael Gough, in the 2007 movie, he was voiced by Nolan North.