A color cathode ray tube is generally constituted from a panel section for visually displaying images and a neck portion containing therein an electron gun assembly plus a funnel section for coupling the panel section and the neck portion together. The panel comprises on its outer surface a colored film that includes a coloring matter or pigment for color-selective absorption of light rays and fine or micro-particles with electricity-resistant property for letting the pigment scatter or disperse. With said arrangement, it is possible to improve the light absorbability of the colored film, thereby enabling provision of the intended cathode ray tube with improved contrast.