Animation has been part of television since its earliest days, evolving from the simple black-and-white hand-drawn cartoons of the 1930s to the highly detailed, computer-generated 3D masterpieces we stream today.
Over the decades, animated shows have not only entertained but also shaped popular culture, influencing generations of viewers with their artistry, humor, and storytelling.
Of course, narrowing down the greatest cartoons ever made to just 30 is no easy task. From groundbreaking anime series to witty adult animated sitcoms, there are many gems that could easily make the cut. Still, the shows on this list capture the incredible range and creativity of the medium, proving that animation is far more than just “kids’ stuff.”
Television simply wouldn’t be the same without them.
31. The Spectacular Spider-Man (2008–2009)
Considered by many fans to be the finest animated adaptation of a Marvel character, The Spectacular Spider-Man brought fresh energy to the beloved hero. With sharp writing, well-developed characters, and thrilling action sequences, it even managed to outshine the much-loved 1990s Spider-Man cartoon. Its cancellation in 2009 was a major disappointment for viewers, but the series remains a benchmark for superhero animation.
30 Hey Arnold! (1996–2004)
Unlike most cartoons of its time, Hey Arnold! took a more grounded and emotional approach to childhood. Set in a bustling city neighborhood, it explored the challenges, friendships, and quiet struggles of growing up with authenticity and warmth.
Its first-season Christmas special is still regarded as one of the most touching and heartfelt holiday episodes in TV history, animated or otherwise.
29. DuckTales (1987–1990)
Often regarded as the crown jewel of Disney’s Duckverse, DuckTales was the ultimate Saturday morning treat for kids of the 1980s. The show struck the perfect balance between high-energy adventure and sharp humor, thanks to the mischievous antics of Huey, Dewey, and Louie paired with the gruff, Dickensian charm of Scrooge McDuck.
Donald Duck made memorable appearances as well, but it was Scrooge’s globe-trotting quests, treasure hunts, and over-the-top escapades that cemented DuckTales as a timeless classic.
28. Mickey Mouse (1936–Present)
Mickey Mouse is more than just a cartoon character—he’s the face of an entire era of animation. Beginning with the groundbreaking 1928 short Steamboat Willie, Mickey popularized the concept of “sound cartoons,” where music, voices, and effects were perfectly synchronized with the animation.
This innovation transformed cartoons into a truly immersive experience, allowing audiences to both see and hear the humor, excitement, and emotion on screen. Mickey’s shorts made their television debut on the BBC in 1936, and for nearly a century, the character has continued to evolve while staying at the heart of Disney’s legacy.
27. Robot Chicken (2005–2025)
This long-running claymation sketch-comedy series has become a pop culture landmark in animated satire. Known for poking fun at just about everything—from reality TV to childhood favorites like gummy bears—Robot Chicken is unapologetically sharp and clever. Even though it now mainly appears through special episodes, it hasn’t lost its bite or wit over the years.
26. Naruto (2002–2017)
Adapted from Masashi Kishimoto’s groundbreaking manga, Naruto redefines the ninja genre with a rich blend of mystique, action, and emotional depth.
While its high-energy battles showcase some of the most powerful fighters in anime history, it’s the heartfelt storytelling, character growth, and themes of friendship and perseverance that make the series unforgettable.
25. Rugrats (1991–2004)
A timeless gem from animation studio Klasky Csupo, Rugrats captures childhood curiosity through the adventures of babies and toddlers exploring the big, fascinating world around them. Its humor, warmth, and creativity made it a must-watch for an entire generation.
No live-action adaptation could ever match the charm, imagination, and vibrant spirit of the original animated classic.
24. Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995)
Batman: The Animated Series revolutionized superhero storytelling by proving that an animated take on the Dark Knight could be just as gripping and artistic as any live-action version.
The show’s brilliance lies in its perfect blend of compelling narratives, stunning hand-drawn animation, and an unforgettable soundtrack. Its noir-inspired art style, richly developed characters, and mature themes set a new standard for superhero adaptations, leaving many fans convinced that Batman has never looked—or sounded—better.
23. Pingu (1980–1986, 1990–2000, 2003–2006)
Pingu charmed audiences worldwide with its unique approach to storytelling—no dialogue, just expressive stop-motion animation and an endearing penguin family in the Antarctic.
Created by German animator Otmar Gutmann, the show’s whimsical “penguin language” and clever visual comedy captivated not just toddlers, but viewers of all ages.
Over the decades, its inventive style and universal humor have turned Pingu into a timeless classic of children’s television.
22. Rick and Morty (2013–Present)
Dark, bizarre, and unexpectedly profound, Rick and Morty pushes the boundaries of adult animation. While its offbeat humor and outrageous sci-fi adventures grab attention, the show’s deeper themes—existentialism, morality, and the meaning of life—are what keep fans coming back.
Now running for over eight seasons, it has endured major creative changes while maintaining its unique blend of sharp wit and cosmic chaos.
21. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987–1996)
What started as a quirky comic book soon became a global sensation thanks to the 1987 animated series. The show introduced the world to Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael—four crime-fighting turtles with a love for pizza and plenty of attitude.
Its mix of action, humor, and unforgettable catchphrases turned it into a cultural phenomenon. Over the years, the franchise has spawned multiple revivals in both live-action and animation, but the original cartoon remains the gold standard for fans.
20. Peanuts (1965–Present)
For decades, Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang have charmed audiences with their wholesome humor and timeless life lessons. The creators follow a simple golden rule: everything stays clean, innocent, and relatable.
This gentle, heartfelt approach has kept Peanuts a beloved favorite for more than half a century, appealing to children and adults alike.
19. The Smurfs (1961–1967)
Following in the footsteps of Hergé’s Adventures of Tintin, The Smurfs brought another beloved Belgian comic to life on television. These tiny blue villagers, living deep in a magical forest, quickly captured hearts worldwide.
Combining lighthearted adventures with simple moral lessons, The Smurfs has been entertaining audiences for more than six decades—proving that even the smallest characters can have the biggest impact.
18. Futurama (1999–2003, 2008–2013, 2023–Present)
Matt Groening’s first big TV success after The Simpsons, Futurama blends razor-sharp comedy with an imaginative sci-fi universe. Powered by an exceptional voice cast and packed with clever pop culture references, the show paints a hilarious yet detailed vision of the far future.
With some of the most memorable characters in animation, it’s a must-watch for both science fiction enthusiasts and sitcom lovers.
17. One Piece (1999–Present)
Spanning decades and thousands of adventures, One Piece is a journey worth taking. Its rich, intricately built world and colorful cast of characters make it one of the most beloved animated series of all time.
Balancing heartfelt moments with lighthearted humor, it has the rare ability to turn nearly any episode into a fan favorite.
16. Arcane (2021–2024)
Far from the lighthearted style of classic cartoons, Arcane: League of Legends delivers one of the most visually breathtaking animated series ever created. Set in a beautifully crafted steampunk world, its mix of action, drama, and striking computer-generated animation has earned it a reputation as one of Netflix’s finest shows of the decade.
15. SpongeBob SquarePants (1999–Present)
For many adults, the characters in SpongeBob SquarePants might seem completely absurd—and that’s exactly what makes the show so charming. This high-energy, delightfully weird cartoon has been captivating younger audiences since its debut in 1999.
While it may not feel quite as sharp or original as it once did, there’s still nothing else on television that matches its unique brand of creativity and humor.
14. Attack on Titan (2013–2023)
Attack on Titan delivers one of the most powerful portrayals of war ever seen in a TV series—animated or otherwise. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity faces near extinction at the hands of giant, man-eating Titans, the show blends intense action with a deeply emotional story. Its stunning animation and unpredictable twists keep viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
13. BoJack Horseman (2014–2020)
Whimsical yet deeply mature, BoJack Horseman stands out as a rare animated series that can be both laugh-out-loud funny and profoundly moving. The show’s anthropomorphic animal characters are surprisingly relatable, often reflecting the complexities and struggles of real life.
While it’s filled with humor and surreal moments, its darker themes always carry weight, making it one of the most thought-provoking animated sitcoms ever created.
12. Samurai Jack (2001–2004, 2017)
Even if you’ve never watched Samurai Jack, you might have heard about its fan theory connection to The Powerpuff Girls. For those who have seen it, the series stands as one of the most celebrated animated shows ever made.
With its striking visual style, masterful storytelling, and bold time-travel narrative, Samurai Jack delivers an unforgettable viewing experience. Its animation is nothing short of breathtaking, making it a true standout in the history of television.
11. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008–2014, 2020)
Among all Star Wars television adaptations, The Clone Wars remains unmatched in its impact and quality—even in the era of The Mandalorian. This CG-animated series features thrilling action sequences, deep character arcs, and storylines that often outshine those of the films. By expanding on the prequel trilogy, it gave fans a richer, more nuanced understanding of the galaxy far, far away.
10. Sailor Moon (1992–1997)
Sailor Moon is more than just an anime—it’s a cultural phenomenon that reshaped the landscape of animation. While not without flaws, its legacy is undeniable. With strong, courageous female heroes, themes of friendship, and a powerful message of empowerment, it broke barriers for representation in media.
Its early success in the United States helped introduce a new generation to anime and inspired countless fans around the world.
9. Cowboy Bebop (1998–1999)
Originally created to boost merchandise sales, Cowboy Bebop ended up achieving far more than that. With its unique blend of neo-noir style, deeply developed characters, and thrilling action sequences, the series quickly became a beloved classic.
It set a new standard for anime storytelling and paved the way for many future shows to thrive both creatively and commercially.
8. Tom and Jerry (1940–1967)
A cornerstone of early Hollywood animation, Tom and Jerry defined the timeless cat-and-mouse chase genre. Decades later, the series continues to entertain audiences worldwide—both through nostalgic reruns and countless internet memes. The endless rivalry between Tom and Jerry remains as captivating and entertaining as ever.
7. Archer (2009–2023)
Archer raised the bar for adult animated TV shows with its sharp writing, complex characters, and a perfect mix of noir, comedy, and thriller elements. With a stellar voice cast and clever storytelling, the show became one of the most respected animated series of its time before wrapping up in 2023.
6. Dragon Ball Z (1989–1996)
Dragon Ball Z played a huge role in introducing Japanese anime to a global audience, especially in the United States. It remains one of the most iconic and beloved parts of the Dragon Ball franchise. The original creator, Akira Toriyama, even acknowledged its significance before his passing in 2024.
Many of today’s popular international anime series owe a debt to Goku and the Z Warriors. While shows like Sailor Moon and Pokémon also made big impacts, Dragon Ball Z was a trailblazer that arrived years earlier and set the stage for anime’s worldwide popularity.
5. South Park (1997–Present)
Despite its reputation for pushing boundaries and stirring controversy, South Park has proven to be one of the sharpest, most insightful shows on television for over two decades.
Don’t be fooled by its crude animation and irreverent humor—this series uses satire to take on politics, culture, and society in a way few other shows can. Its ability to balance outrageous comedy with clever commentary has kept it relevant and influential for years.
4. The Flintstones (1960–1966)
As the first-ever animated sitcom, The Flintstones set the foundation for countless family comedies to come. Even decades after it first aired, its humor remains timeless and enjoyable.
This groundbreaking show not only entertained millions but also inspired future classics like The Simpsons. Its clever blend of modern life with a prehistoric setting created a unique and lasting legacy in animation history.
3. Pokémon (1997 – Present)
Few shows have shaped a generation quite like Pokémon. For many millennials around the world, the anime, its video games, and merchandise are deeply woven into their childhood memories.
Thanks to streaming platforms, Pokémon continues to find new fans across different generations, introducing them to the original anime that started it all. With new episodes still being made, the adventure to “catch ’em all” remains alive and well.
2. Looney Tunes / Merrie Melodies (1955 – 1969)
What began as two separate cartoon series in the early 1930s soon blended into a legendary collection of characters beloved by millions. From Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck to Sylvester, Tweety, Wile E. Coyote, and the Roadrunner, these cartoons became iconic staples of animation.
Initially shown as theatrical shorts, Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies transitioned to television in 1955, where their popularity soared worldwide. While countless spin-offs and movies followed, it’s the original shorts that continue to hold a special place in animation history.
1. The Simpsons (1989 – Present)
In the 1990s, The Simpsons produced an extraordinary run of television that many consider unmatched. The first ten seasons, especially seasons 2 through 8, are often hailed as the show’s golden era and have become legendary in the world of TV animation.
Although later seasons haven’t reached those same heights, the brilliance of The Simpsons at its best remains unrivaled. It’s a benchmark for animated sitcoms and will likely influence TV animation for generations to come.
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