25 Animated Hits That Are Timeless and Only Get More Legendary
Whether it's heartfelt narratives or biting satire, these series prove that animation isn't just for kids.
South Park
1 of 25With its crude animation and biting social commentary, "South Park" has maintained a strong adult fanbase for decades. It tackles controversial issues with bold humor, and grown-ups appreciate its fearless approach to discussing societal taboos.
Big Mouth
2 of 25This coming-of-age comedy about puberty is as crude as it is insightful. Adults relate to its honest portrayal of growing pains, emotional struggles, and awkward moments. Plus, its unabashed humor and strong voice cast make it stand out.
Over the Garden Wall
3 of 25This atmospheric miniseries blends dark fairy tales with hauntingly beautiful visuals. Adults enjoy its mature themes, poetic storytelling, and eerie charm. It’s a short but deeply impactful journey through the unknown.
Bob’s Burgers
4 of 25This sitcom about a quirky family running a burger joint is both hilarious and heartwarming. Adults connect with its relatable family dynamics. Plus, the musical numbers and eccentric side characters add to its charm.
The Venture Bros.
5 of 25A parody of classic adventure cartoons, "The Venture Bros." is full of clever humor and complex storytelling. Its mature themes and nuanced characters attract a dedicated adult audience.
Daria
6 of 25This 90s classic offers a sardonic take on high school life and its societal norms. Audiences of all ages love its sharp wit and relatable critiques of conformity and consumerism. Daria’s deadpan humor and intelligent commentary make it timeless.
Castlevania
7 of 25Based on the popular video game series, "Castlevania" not only delivers a rich narrative and stunning visuals, but it also shines because of its exploration of morality, vengeance, and humanity.
Invincible
8 of 25This superhero series combines action-packed scenes with darker, mature themes. Its deconstruction of superhero tropes, emotionally complex characters, graphic violence and unexpected twists keep +21 viewers hooked.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars
9 of 25While set in a galaxy far, far away, "The Clone Wars" shines thanks to its treatment of war, morality, and the complexity of its characters. The show expands the "Star Wars" universe in meaningful ways, which is deeply appreciated considering the crumbling present of the franchise.
Rick and Morty
10 of 25This sci-fi comedy is packed with absurd adventures that mask its existential undertones and moral dilemmas. Adults are drawn to its witty humor, pop culture references, and surprisingly deep narratives.
BoJack Horseman
11 of 25While it initially appears to only be about a washed-up horse actor, "BoJack Horseman" delivers cutting satire and profound insights into mental health and fame. Its complex characters and raw storytelling resonate strongly with adult audiences, managing to be hilarious and heartbreaking all at once.
The Midnight Gospel
12 of 25A philosophical journey through surreal landscapes, "The Midnight Gospel" pushes the boundaries of animated storytelling. Grown-ups are drawn to its introspective themes and unconventional format, where the mix of existential musings and stunning visuals is mesmerizing.
Archer
13 of 25Sharp wit, over-the-top scenarios, and dysfunctional characters? "Archer" has it all! Its humor satirizes the tropes of espionage and workplace comedies, and its fast-paced dialogue and pop culture references make it a hit with older viewers.
Primal
14 of 25This almost dialogue-free series relies on breathtaking animation and raw emotion to tell its story, captivating older audiences with its visceral depiction of survival and companionship. The stunning visuals and intense storytelling set it apart.
Family Guy
15 of 25Known for its irreverent humor, "Family Guy" tackles topics that resonate with adults, often pushing the boundaries of comedy. The series parodies everything from politics to pop culture. Its acid approach makes it a guilty pleasure for many.
Harley Quinn
16 of 25The irreverent take on the most popular woman in the last decades of the DC Universe is as violent as it is hilarious. Adults love its unapologetic humor and deeper exploration of Harley’s character.
Futurama
17 of 25This space-age comedy has all a binge-watcher needs: witty humor, futuristic settings, and heartfelt moments. Created by Matt Groening, its clever writing continues to attract adult fans, even after multiple revivals.
Gravity Falls
18 of 25This mystery-filled series cleverly mixes humor with supernatural intrigue, appealing to adults and kids alike. The rich lore and cryptic messages invite viewers to uncover deeper meanings. Plus, many grown-ups enjoy rewatching it to catch subtle details they missed before.
King of the Hill
19 of 25Exploring the quirks of suburban life, "King of the Hill" is filled with grounded humor and heartfelt moments. The show’s depiction of middle-class values strikes a nostalgic chord with many.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
20 of 25Although initially marketed as a children’s show, "Avatar: The Last Airbender" is admired by adults for its exploration of war, identity, and redemption. Furthermore, the stunning animation and character growth keep fans of all ages engaged.
The Owl House
21 of 25This fantasy series charms adults with its intricate world-building and relatable characters. Themes of acceptance and identity resonate strongly with older viewers, while its whimsical yet profound storytelling appeals to a wide audience.
The Simpsons
22 of 25A classic for over three decades, "The Simpsons" balances humor with sharp societal commentary. Audiences of all ages enjoy revisiting its early seasons for clever satire and memorable characters. It remains a cultural touchstone for nostalgia.
Adventure Time
23 of 25With its whimsical setting and surprisingly deep narratives, "Adventure Time" speaks to all ages. However, older audiences appreciate its exploration of emotional growth, existential themes, and nuanced storytelling. The blend of absurd humor and heartfelt moments leaves a lasting impact.
Samurai Jack
24 of 25With its minimalist dialogue and stunning visuals, "Samurai Jack" captivates audiences with its cinematic storytelling. Adults are drawn to its epic themes and emotional depth. The series’ revival cemented its legacy as a masterpiece.
Smiling Friends
25 of 25This offbeat series follows a small company dedicated to bringing smiles to their clients, no matter how bizarre the task. Its enormous fanbase loves its surreal humor, fast-paced gags, and subtle satire of workplace culture.