In recent years, we’ve witnessed an animation renaissance with groundbreaking shows like “Arcane,”1 “Castlevania,” and “Bojack Horseman” pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry.
While these modern masterpieces captivate audiences worldwide, there’s something undeniably comforting about revisiting the cartoons that shaped our childhoods.
As we celebrate the new golden age of adult animation, let’s take a moment to appreciate the timeless classics that paved the way. Here are 18 old cartoons that have stood the test of time and are still worth watching today, whether you’re reliving fond memories or introducing them to a new generation.
1. The Flintstones: Stone Age Sitcom Gold
“The Flintstones” remains a beloved classic, blending prehistoric settings with modern sitcom tropes. This Hanna-Barbera creation aired from 1960 to 1966 and continues to charm audiences with its clever anachronisms and relatable family dynamics.
2. Courage the Cowardly Dog: Surreal Scares
This quirky series about a timid dog protecting his owners from supernatural threats aired from 1999 to 2002. Its unique blend of horror and humor continues to captivate viewers with its offbeat adventures and memorable characters.
3. Dexter’s Laboratory: Boy Genius Antics
Genndy Tartakovsky’s creation about a child prodigy with a secret laboratory ran from 1996 to 2003. The show’s witty humor and imaginative inventions still resonate with audiences today.
4. The Powerpuff Girls: Girl Power Punch
This superhero series featuring three kindergarten-aged girls with superpowers aired from 1998 to 2005. Its combination of action, humor, and empowering messages continues to inspire new generations.
5. Ed, Edd n Eddy: Suburban Shenanigans
Running from 1999 to 2009, this show about three friends’ misadventures in their cul-de-sac neighborhood remains a fan favorite for its slapstick humor and quirky animation style.
6. Codename: Kids Next Door: Childhood Espionage
This imaginative series about child agents fighting adult tyranny aired from 2002 to 2008. Its creative premise and elaborate world-building continue to entertain viewers.
7. Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends: Whimsical Wonder
Created by Craig McCracken, this colorful series about a home for imaginary friends ran from 2004 to 2009. Its vibrant characters and heartwarming stories still captivate audiences.
8. The Jetsons: Retro-Futuristic Fun
This Hanna-Barbera classic about a family living in a comical version of the future aired in the 1960s and 1980s. Its imaginative depiction of future technology continues to amuse and intrigue viewers.
9. Wacky Races: Zany Road Rally
This 1968 series featuring a cast of colorful characters competing in an outrageous cross-country race remains a beloved classic for its over-the-top humor and memorable personalities.
10. Johnny Bravo: Comedic Casanova
Running from 1997 to 2004, this series about a muscular yet dimwitted man’s attempts at wooing women still entertains with its slapstick humor and pop culture references.
11. The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy: Dark Humor Delight
This series about two children befriending the Grim Reaper aired from 2003 to 2007. Its macabre humor and bizarre scenarios continue to appeal to those with a taste for the offbeat.
12. SpongeBob SquarePants: Undersea Absurdity
Debuting in 1999 and still running today, this surreal series about a cheerful sea sponge and his aquatic friends remains a cultural phenomenon, appealing to both children and adults with its zany humor.
13. Avatar: The Last Airbender: Epic Fantasy Adventure
This critically acclaimed series, which aired from 2005 to 2008, continues to be praised for its complex storytelling, character development, and stunning animation.
14. Batman: The Animated Series: Dark Knight Drama
Airing from 1992 to 1995, this noir-inspired take on the Caped Crusader is still considered one of the best superhero adaptations, praised for its mature themes and iconic voice acting.
15. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2003): Turtle Power Reimagined
This 2003 iteration of the popular franchise ran until 2010, offering a grittier, more comic-accurate version of the heroes in a half-shell that many fans still prefer.
16. Kim Possible: Teen Spy Sensation
Running from 2002 to 2007, this series about a high school cheerleader who doubles as a secret agent continues to be admired for its strong female lead and blend of action and comedy.
17. Gravity Falls: Mystery and Mayhem
Though more recent (2012-2016), this series about twins uncovering supernatural secrets in a strange town has quickly become a modern classic, praised for its intricate plotting and clever humor.
18. Popeye the Sailor: Spinach-Powered Classic
This iconic character, created in 1929, starred in numerous cartoons over the decades. Popeye’s adventures continue to entertain with their slapstick humor and memorable catchphrases.
Source:
1. Visual Effects Society
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
