Trending adult cartoons you should watch include BoJack Horseman, Big Mouth, Rick and Morty, Inside Job, Aggretsuko, Arcane, and F Is for Family.
Adult cartoons are storming the animation world! A fresh genre of cartoons explicitly tailored for adults has burst onto the scene.
Trailblazers like The Simpsons, South Park, and Family Guy ushered in this new age of animation, daring to grapple with mature themes and subject matter like politics, sex, drugs, and violence.
Streaming giants like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon haven’t missed a beat. They’ve leaped onto this trend, churning their original animated content to adult viewers.
Final Space
- “Final Space”: An American adult animated series blending space opera with adventure comedy-drama.
- Creation: Conceptualized by Olan Rogers, an indie internet filmmaker; production by Conan O’Brien’s Conaco.
- Broadcasting: Initially debuted on TBS, subsequently available on Netflix.
- Plot Focus: Chronicles the escapades of Gary Goodspeed, an exuberant but slightly naive astronaut, alongside his extraterrestrial companion, Mooncake.
- Key Character Detail: Mooncake, despite being an alien friend to Gary, holds the secret of being a potent planet-destroying superweapon.
The House On Netflix
- “The House”: A stop-motion anthology for adults, created by Nexus Studios for Netflix.
- Structure: Consists of three distinct 30-minute tales, each crafted by renowned European animation directors.
- First Story Leadership: Emma De Swaef and Marc James Roels, recognized for their Annie Award-nominated work, “This Magnificent Cake.”
- Second Story Direction: Nikki Lindroth von Bahr, celebrated for winning the Annecy Cristal with “The Burden.”
Super Drags on Netflix
“Super Drags” is an adult animated television series produced by Brazilian animation studio Combo Estúdio and released by Netflix in 2018. It’s a Brazilian show that centers on the lives of three department store workers who moonlight as superhero drag queens, fighting against hate crimes and promoting LGBTQ+ positivity.
Agent Elvis – Adult Cartoon
- “Agent Elvis”: An adult animated series set to debut on Netflix.
- Star Voice: Matthew McConaughey voices Elvis Presley.
- Genre: A blend of bloody action and comedy.
- Creative Origins: Brainchild of Priscilla Presley and John Eddie.
- Production: Sony Pictures Animation, known for “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” embarks on its first adult animation project.
Harvey Birdman – Adult Animation Shows
- “Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law”: Parodies legal dramas with a twist on classic and lesser-known cartoon characters’ legal woes.
- Character Portrayal: Gary Cole voices Harvey Birdman, masterfully combining slickness, legal flair, and a touch of desperation.
Bojack Horseman
Awards: Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Animated Series
Program creator: Raphael Bob-Waksberg
Executive producers: Lisa Hanawalt, Kate Purdy, Corey Campodonico
Final episode date: January 31, 2020
BoJack Horseman is an American adult cartoon series created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg. The show premiered on Netflix in 2014 and quickly became a fan favorite.
- Setting: A city reminiscent of Los Angeles, inhabited by both humans and anthropomorphic animals.
- Main Character: BoJack Horseman, a washed-up 90’s sitcom star aiming for a comeback.
- Genre: A mix of dark humor, tragic elements, and philosophical undertones, with critiques of fame and the media world.
Inside Job
Program creator: Shion Takeuchi
Network: Netflix
Executive producer: Chantal Hennessey
Dive into a new world with “Inside Job,” the must-watch adult cartoon of 2023! Set in a future where robots have taken all the jobs, friends band together to start their own company. But, as they soon find out, the business world is no walk in the park.
Human Resources
First episode date: March 18, 2022 (USA)
Predecessor: Big Mouth
Genres: Ribaldry, Animated sitcom, Office humor
Watch Now
- Spin-off Alert: From the creators of Big Mouth comes a new series.
- Unique Concept: Think Monsters Inc., but with a focus on exploring sexual desires.
- Humor Style: Leans heavily into crude and bold humor, not suited for all audiences.
- Target Audience: Fans of Big Mouth’s direct and unapologetic style will find this spin-off entertaining.
- Viewer Discretion: A heads-up that this series may not appeal to all due to its explicit content.
The Great North
Writers: Minty Lewis, Wendy Molyneux
First episode date: January 3, 2021 (USA)
Network: Fox
Get ready to immerse yourself in the quirky world of the Belcher family as they take on a new adventure in the wilds of Alaska. With an added twist, The Great North brings the same dry humor and situational comedy fans of Bob’s Burgers have come to love.
- Explore the beautiful Alaskan setting, and get to know a cast of quirky characters as they navigate the great outdoors. The Great North has many laughs, from Beef mistaking his ex-wife’s absence for a bear attack to other silly mishaps.
M.O.D.O.K
Program creators: Patton Oswalt, Jordan Blum
Network: Hulu
Genres: Science fiction, Animated sitcom, Animated series
Discover the dark and hilarious world of M.O.D.O.K., starring the classic supervillain. Voiced by the talented Patton Oswald, M.O.D.O.K. navigates the challenges of balancing his evil empire and fatherhood.
- This is not your average superhero series featuring graphic violence and raunchy humor. So hold on to your seat and brace yourself for a wild ride filled with laughs, gore, and unexpected twists.
Rick & Morty
Distributor: Warner Bros. Television Distribution
Original network: Adult Swim
- Follow the adventures of alcoholic genius Rick and his eager-to-please grandson Morty as they traverse time and space, exploring the furthest reaches of the universe. With a universe full of possibilities, you never know what wild and hilarious scenarios these two will find themselves in next.
Aggretsuko
Language: Japanese
Network: TBS Television
Created by: Sanrio
Aggretsuko is a Japanese anime series that first premiered in 2018. Retsuko is a 25-year-old red panda who works as an accountant in the office.
Despite her cute and meek exterior, Retsuko struggles to cope with the daily frustrations of her job, including a tyrannical boss and incompetent coworkers. To relieve stress, Retsuko escapes to karaoke bars and sings death metal.
- The show explores themes such as workplace stress, the challenges of navigating adulthood, and finding one’s identity. Despite its lighthearted and humorous approach, Aggretsuko tackles these serious topics in a relatable and empathetic manner, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Gravity Falls
Program creator: Alex Hirsch
Writers: Alex Hirsch, Matt Chapman, Shion Takeuchi,
Gravity Falls is a magical adventure waiting to happen! Join Dipper and Mabel, twin siblings, on a wild ride as they discover the mysterious town of Gravity Falls, Oregon, and uncover its supernatural secrets.
- From June 15, 2012, to February 15, 2016, this American animated TV series, created by Alex Hirsch and produced by Disney Television Animation, captivated audiences of all ages with its witty humor, mysterious plot, and lovable characters.
Solar Opposites
Solar Opposites is an American adult animated science fiction sitcom created by Justin Roiland and Mike McMahan. The show was first released on Hulu in 2020 and has become one of the most popular and highly-regarded adult cartoons on television.
The series revolves around a group of four aliens from the planet Shlorp who escape to Earth and must navigate their new surroundings while dealing with their personal and cultural differences. The aliens consist of Korvo, Terry, Yumyulack, and Jesse, each with unique personalities and quirks.
Solar Opposites is known for its blend of humor, science fiction, and social commentary, as well as its well-developed characters and sharp writing.
Tuca & Bertie
First episode date: May 3, 2019 (USA)
Writers: Lisa Hanawalt, Lee Sung Jin, Shauna McGarry, Karen Graci, Rachelle R. Williams, Gonzalo Cordova
Networks: Netflix, Adult Swim
Get ready for a wild ride with Tuca & Bertie, the adult cartoons that will have you laughing out loud! Produced by ShadowMachine, this show follows Tuca and Bertie as they navigate their 30s and the ups and downs of friendship.
- With a bold and unique animation style, witty humor, and an honest depiction of adult life, Tuca & Bertie explores topics like sexuality, mental health, and the complexities of female friendship.
Big Mouth
Awards: Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Award for Outstanding Character
Music composed by: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, Bill Ward
Theme song: Changes
Program creators: Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, Jennifer Flackett
Big Mouth is an American adult cartoon tv series that premiered on Netflix in 2017. The show was created by Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett and is produced by the animation studio Brutus Pink.
- Big Mouth follows the coming-of-age experiences of a group of 7th-grade friends as they navigate the challenges and awkwardness of puberty. The show explores topics such as sexuality, masturbation, and relationships boldly, unapologetically, and often crudely.
South Park
Program creators: Trey Parker, Matt Stone
First episode date: August 13, 1997 (USA)
Networks: Comedy Central, HBO Max, REN TV, Paramount Comedy, MTV
- This long-running cartoon is famous for its biting social and political satire. The show takes on everything from current events to pop culture, and its unique animation style, foul language, and outrageous plotlines make it one of the most controversial and talked-about cartoons on TV.
The Simpsons
Writers: Matt Groening, Dan Castellaneta, Conan O’Brien
First episode date: December 17, 1989 (USA)
Program creator: Matt Groening
Predecessors: The Simpsons shorts
- This long-running cartoon is the longest-running American sitcom and the longest-running American primetime scripted television series. The show is known for its irreverent humor, clever writing, and insightful commentary on American culture and society.
Futurama
This science-fiction sitcom follows the adventures of a delivery boy named Fry, who’s cryogenically frozen and wakes up a thousand years later. The show is known for its quirky humor, clever writing, and memorable characters.
- One of the strengths of Futurama is its imaginative world-building. Robots and aliens live side-by-side with humans in a futuristic, familiar, and strange society.
Family Guy
Writers: Mike Henry, John Viener, Alex Borstein, Danny Smith
First episode date: January 31, 1999 (USA)
Nominations: Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Voice-Over Performance
This comedy follows the adventures of the Griffin family and their talking dog, Brian. No primetime cartoon uses cutaway gags, pop culture references, and irreverent humor like this.
- Family Guy is often considered a groundbreaking adult cartoon because of its irreverent and controversial humor. Parodies and political, religious, and sexual jokes make the show stand out.
Archer
Archer is an adult animated spy comedy that has entertained audiences for over a decade. The show follows the adventures of Sterling Archer, a charming but utterly self-absorbed spy who works for the International Secret Intelligence Service (ISIS).
- Archer is a master of espionage but is also a complete mess regarding his personal life. He is rude, immature, and prone to getting into trouble, but despite his many flaws, he is one of the most entertaining cartoon characters on television.
Bob’s Burgers
- Unique Feature: Bob’s Burgers stands out for its quirky humor.
- Humor Elements: Characterized by offbeat gags, silly jokes, and pun-laden conversations.
- Writing Talent: The creative team excels at weaving humor into mundane life aspects.
- Consistent Entertainment: The Belcher family’s adventures, from health inspections to food truck contests, guarantee laughs.
Disenchantment
- Show Introduction: “Disenchantment,” a fresh animated series on Netflix.
- Main Characters: Centers on a young princess, her elf companion, and a personal demon.
- Setting: Set in the fantastical realm of Dreamland, blending humor with magical quests.
- Appeal: Features vivid animations, sharp dialogue, and engaging plots, poised to captivate animation enthusiasts.
- Critical Reception: Lauded for its unique twist on classic fairy tale and fantasy clichés.
- Viewing Recommendation: Offers both light-hearted entertainment and deeper storytelling, making “Disenchantment” a must-watch.
Hit-Monkey
Hit-Monkey is a comic book character and cartoon series created by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in 2010 and has become a popular and beloved figure in the Marvel universe.
As a result of his training by the ghosts of fallen ninjas, Hit-Monkey becomes an assassin.
The character has appeared in several comic book series and featured in several animated projects, including a short-form series on the Marvel HQ YouTube channel.
Invincible
Invincible is an exciting animated series from Amazon Prime Video that follows the exploits of 17-year-old Mark Grayson as he discovers his superpowers.
- With its colorful animation, engaging story, and action-packed scenes, Invincible is sure to become a favorite among fans of superheroes and animation.
The Venture Bros
Adult Swim’s longest-running original series, this hilarious and action-packed cartoon, debuted in 2004 and has captivated audiences ever since.
Get ready to dive into a world where comic book and pop culture legends are re-imagined as part of an epic family drama!
- The Venture clan is headed by Dr. Rusty Venture, a once-brilliant scientist who has become a washed-up has-been. But life never slows down for the good doctor. When he’s not battling his bumbling arch-enemy, he’s dealing with the madness of his overzealous bodyguard and two wacky sons. Get ready for non-stop laughter and adventure!
Regular Show
Get ready for a wild ride with two of the most unlikely heroes you’ve ever met! Two blue jays and a raccoon work as groundskeepers at the local park.
But don’t let their day jobs fool you – these two are always up for a good adventure! Whether getting into hijinks or trying to avoid trouble, their escapades are always entertaining and sure to have you in stitches.
Harley Quinn
Network: HBO Max
Executive producer: Dean Lorey
Genres: Adult animation, Animated Tv Shows, Dark comedy
Get ready to experience the chaotic antics of Gotham City’s queen in a new way! If you were blown away by Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Harley Quinn in “Birds of Prey,” you won’t miss the Harley Quinn animated series.
- This show is a must-see for fans of all things DC Comics, as it spotlights Harley and her quest to claim Gotham City as her own.
Samurai Jack
Embark on an epic journey through time with Samurai Jack, the star of this visually stunning animated series. Through a rich tapestry of cultural influences, this show tells the story of Jack’s quest to save the world.
With a captivating storyline and breathtaking animation, every episode is a feast for the eyes and mind.
After an impressive run of four seasons, the show took a 13-year break before finally delivering the satisfying conclusion fans had been waiting for in 2017. Take advantage of this timeless classic!
The Boondocks
The show is set in the fictional suburb of Woodcrest. It follows the lives of the Freeman family: ten-year-old Huey, his younger brother Riley, and their grandfather Robert, who has moved them from the South Side of Chicago to the peaceful suburb.
- Regina King voices both Huey and Riley, while John Witherspoon voices Robert Freeman. The characters each provide a different perspective: Huey is a politically aware radical, Riley is a product of modern hip-hop culture, and Robert, their grandfather, often serves as the more traditional or mainstream viewpoint.
Steven Universe
Embark on an epic adventure in Beach City, where alien warriors and crystal gems stand guard to protect the world from evil forces.
- These powerful beings take on human form, each with a magical gemstone at their core, and the story follows Steven as he discovers and learns to harness his powers.
Join Steven as he navigates his exciting new abilities alongside his human father, Greg, his friend Connie, and the colorful characters in Beach City. Get ready for a journey filled with magic, mystery, and heart as Steven learns what it means to be a hero.
Metalocalypse
Get ready to headbang through the dark and twisted world of Metalocalypse! This show is a must-watch for fans of death metal and all things dark, twisted, and rock and roll.
- Follow the over-the-top adventures of Dethklok, the world’s most successful death metal band, as they navigate their fame and face off against a government organization determined to destroy them.
With a unique blend of humor, action, and heavy metal music, Metalocalypse is the perfect show for anyone who loves the darker side of life. So, turn up the volume and prepare for a wild ride with Dethklok!
Clone High
Step into a world of comedic mayhem, where history’s biggest legends are reborn as teenagers in this short-lived animated comedy.
- Get ready to see your favorite historical figures as you’ve never seen them before. Abraham Lincoln as a hopeless romantic, JFK as a smooth ladies’ man, Joan of Arc as a gothic rebel, and Gandhi as a wild party animal.
With its unique blend of humor, history, and teenage antics, this show is a wild and unforgettable ride you don’t want to miss!
Aqua Teen Hunger Force
“Aqua Teen Hunger Force” is an animated series aired on Cartoon Network’s late-night programming block, Adult Swim. It first premiered in 2000 and has significantly impacted the landscape of adult animation.
- The show’s surreal and absurd humor, colorful and eccentric characters, and disregard for the typical narrative structure have all contributed to its cult status and why it’s often considered one of the best adult cartoons.
Beavis and Butt-head
Get ready to experience the magic of “Beavis and Butt-Head,” the groundbreaking adult cartoon that changed the game.
- Created by the legendary Mike Judge, this epoch-making comedy series premiered on MTV in the heyday of the network, when it was truly the coolest place to be.
- Despite popular beliefs, the antics of two incredibly foolish burnouts proved one of the most iconic and influential cartoons ever.
King of the Hill
Join Mike Judge and immerse yourself in the quirky world of Arlen, Texas, with King of the Hill. The Hill family and funny neighbors are the central characters of this animated series.
- Get ready to laugh with this timeless classic, which ran for a remarkable 13 seasons on Fox before ending its run in 2009. With its witty humor and relatable characters, King of the Hill is a must-watch for anyone searching for a good laugh.
Happy Tree Friends
This deceptively cute cartoon packs a punch with its shock-value humor and graphic violence. Don’t be fooled by its child-friendly appearance; Happy Tree Friends is a twisted feast of constant death and senseless violence.
- Despite its bleak subject matter, the show has gained a massive following and unexpected Internet success thanks to its cast of dim-witted woodland creatures and their hilariously disastrous decisions.
The Ren & Stimpy Show
Get ready to relive the wild and wacky adventures of Ren and Stimpy! Though they may not be as well-known as they once were, these two characters left a lasting impact on adult cartoons.
Follow the hyperactive Chihuahua and his clueless feline friend as they dive into chaos and cause mayhem with their crude humor and disgustingly hilarious antics.
- The show’s unique animation style and fast-paced energy set the bar high for future cartoons like Spongebob Squarepants, making Ren and Stimpy true pioneers in animated comedy.
Trailer Park Boys Animated Series
Join the wild and wacky journey of the Trailer Park Boys! This adult cartoon follows a group of trailer park residents who are nothing short of characters.
- From ex-convicts to die-hard hillbillies, they all call the fictional Sunnyvale Trailer Park in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, their home.
Robot Chicken
Get ready for a wild ride through the pop culture universe with “Robot Chicken. This stop-motion comedy is the ultimate late-night binge with its rapid-fire sketches that will have you in stitches.
- Co-created by actor Seth Green, each 11-12 minute episode is packed with celebrity guest stars and a never-ending stream of absurdity. Nine seasons of pure madness await, so buckle up and hit that pulverize button with Robot Chicken.
Space Ghost Coast to Coast
Step into the world of the legendary superhero turned talk show host – Space Ghost. After hanging up his cape, he returns as Tad Ghostal, ready to rock the late-night scene with his talk show.
- From Denzel Washington to Hulk Hogan to Timothy Leary, no celebrity is safe from Space Ghost’s quirky interviews beamed in from Earth.
Ugly Americans
“Ugly Americans” takes you to New York City’s wildest corners. This adult cartoon is a world filled with all the freaks of nature you can imagine.
- Follow Mark Lilly, a social worker employed by the Department of Integration, as he struggles to navigate his job’s dangerous and unpredictable world.
Black Dynamite
Black Dynamite will take you on a funky ride. This animated series follows the adventures of the ultimate ex-C.I.A. agent and ladies’ man, the one and only Black Dynamite.
- With his crew by his side, Black Dynamite sets out on a mission to avenge the death of his brother and take down kung-fu masters, drug-dealing pimps, and the all-powerful man.
Brickleberry
Embark on a wild and hilarious adventure with Daniel Tosh as he leads the charge in Brickleberry National Park.
- This irreverent adult cartoon features a cast of quirky park rangers and the outrageous antics they get up to. With Daniel’s signature humor and a touch of mischief, you’re sure to be in for a good time. Buckle up for three seasons of non-stop laughter, exclusively on Comedy Central!
American Dad!
Program creators: Mike Barker, Matt Weitzman, Seth MacFarlane
First episode date: February 6, 2005 (USA)
Composers: Walter Murphy; Joel McNeely; Ron Jones
Seth MacFarlane expands his comedic genius to American Dad, a hilarious adult cartoon that takes on the classic sitcom formula.
- Get ready to dive into the wacky world of CIA operative Stan Smith and his quirky family. Meet his loving wife, nerdy son, wild daughter, and the outrageous extraterrestrial, Roger.
Paradise PD
Writers: Roger Black, Waco O’Guin, Amy Pocha
Genres: Adult animation
Network: Netflix
Welcome to Paradise, where the police force is the epitome of bad.
But not just any ordinary bad; we’re talking about a new level of incompetence. This off-the-wall adult cartoon is the perfect escape from reality and a must-watch on Netflix.
Join the ride as the bumbling police officers bring non-stop laughter and chaos. Buckle up, as season two is coming soon!
Daria
Spin-off: Jodie
Theme song: You’re Standing on My Neck
Predecessor: Beavis and Butt-Head
Join the iconic Daria Morgendorffer as she takes center stage in her hilarious adult cartoon.
As a regular in Beavis and Butt-head, Daria has proven herself to stand out with her dry wit and razor-sharp intelligence.
F is for Family
Genres: Comedy, Satire, Dark comedy, Drama, Comedy drama
Executive producers: Brian J. Cowan, Jean Baptiste Lère, Heath Kenny
Program creators: Bill Burr, Michael Price
Step back in time with comedian Bill Burr in his Netflix hit cartoon “F Is for Family. This semi-autobiographical show takes us to the wild and hilarious world of the 1970s, where foul language and crude jokes reign supreme.
- Bill provides the hilarious voice for Frank Murphy, an Irish-American living in the suburbs with a passion for his family and TV. But which one Frank loves more is the million-dollar question.
- Get ready to laugh out loud and see a side of the 1970s you’ve never seen before with “F Is for Family.
Drawn Together
Executive producers: Dave Jeser, J. Michael Mendel, Claudia Katz
Writers: Jordan Young, Matt Silverstein, Dave Jeser, Bill Freiberger
Network: Comedy Central
Drawn Together takes on reality TV with its wild and hilarious cartoon! This boundary-pushing series brings together eight animated characters from different walks of life and places them in a house where anything goes.
- With its no-holds-barred humor and fearless approach, this show is not for the faint of heart.
But if you’re up for a wild and unforgettable viewing experience, then Drawn Together is a must-watch. You might not find a show like this on the air today.
Central Park
Program creators: Loren Bouchard, Josh Gad, Nora Smith
Nominations: Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Award for Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance
First episode date: May 29, 2020 (USA)
Network: Apple TV+
Genres: Adult animation, Musical
Step into the heart of New York City and experience the wacky adventures of the charming Tillermans in Central Park.
- This hilarious new adult cartoon is a must-watch for those looking for a good laugh. The show follows the Tillermans as they work to save Central Park from the clutches of the greedy land developer Bitsy Brandenham.
With the help of an eccentric cast of characters, the Tillermans will stop at nothing to preserve their beloved park.
