100 Best Animated Shows of All Time

Top 100 Greatest Cartoons of All Time

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the absolute best animated franchises, series, and short films ever made. However, we won’t be including anime because, let’s be real, it deserves its own list!

#100: “The Yogi Bear Show” (1961-62)

Hey, hey, hey, it’s Yogi Bear in all his grizzly glory! Considered one of animation’s first breakout characters, Yogi’s antics were too charming to stay on the sidelines. So, he spun-off from “The Huckleberry Hound Show” and got star billing in an even more iconic animated program. Escaping Ranger Smith while seeking out pic-a-nic baskets with Snagglepuss and Yakky Doodle, you just can’t get any more classic than this. Even across decades of shows, spinoffs, and films, Yogi’s enduring appeal hasn’t gone into hibernation. It’s clear to see why Yogi is smarter than your av-er-age bear!

#99: “Star Trek: Lower Decks” (2020-24)

In 2020, the crew of the starship Cerritos[a] boldly went where no “Star Trek” series had gone before - comedy! In any other corner of the galaxy, Beckett Mariner and Brad Boimler would be no-name red-shirts or background characters. But here, they’re the leads, and the show is all the better for it. Turning “Stark Trek” into a workplace comedy reinvigorates the series’ classic formula with wit, originality, and, of course, a universe of laughter. So, whether it’s for the nerdy easter eggs or just a good chuckle, there’s always a new reason to board the Cerritos.

#98: “ReBoot” (1994-2001)

No restart needed; this show was already as cutting-edge as it gets. For one, it was among the first CGI television programs ever made. And, secondly, the entire story revolved around digital heroes within a computer system. Yeah, talk about a real screenSAVER. The heavy focus on technology was a bold move back in the 90s, and it paid off with one of the most memorable cartoons around. Since Bob’s fight against the evil Megabyte often led him into video games, each episode felt like it was a part of its own genre, if not its own show as a whole. The one common denominator was that “ReBoot” never bored.

#97: “Metalocalypse” (2006-13)

Performing death metal is hard work. If “Metalocalypse” is any indication, it’s also really dangerous. Let’s just say when you tune into a Dethklok concert, there’s a good chance it’ll end with a riot, a fistfight, explosions, or all three. If it sounds insane, that’s because it is. “Metalocalypse” doesn’t know the meaning of the word “restraint,” doubling down on its unhinged portrayal of music, life, and heavy metal. Then again, when the main characters have names like Nathan Explosion and William Murderface, what else would you expect? “Metalocalypse” marches to the beat of its own drum, and that’s a good thing.

#96: “G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero” (1983-86)

Cartoons based on toylines have a pretty spotty track record. Against all odds, “G.I. Joe” proved the formula can work. Originally ordered as a series of thirty-second commercials, the brand’s popularity led to the creation of a five-episode miniseries. The success of that prompted another five-part season, and eventually, a full series. “A Real American Hero” had to prove itself at every turn. Each time, its over-the-top action was up to the task. There may not ever be a TV series that emulates the childlike joy of smashing action figures together quite like this. From a show based on “G.I. Joe,” that’s hardly surprising.

#95: “Total Drama” (2007-14; 2016; 2023-)

As a not-so-subtle parody of the hit reality show, “Survivor,” “Total Drama” could have easily coasted on some low-brow satire and called it a day. It wasn’t content being ordinary, and quickly rose above its inspirations into something worthy of its own legacy. “Total Drama” packaged romance, likable characters, serialized stories, and that juicy, reality show drama into bite-sized episodes everyone could enjoy. Even with a slew of twists and cast shakeups over the years, “Total Drama’s” rock-solid setup never once disappointed. Especially not in the humor department. Some of these edgy jokes will make you wonder how this ever aired on children’s networks.

#94: “Infinity Train” (2019-21)

Barrelling full-steam ahead into animation greatness, “Infinity Train” follows a young girl named Tulip who explores the eponymous transport system to reconcile with her parent’s divorce. It’s ambitious, nuanced, and incredibly powerful. And that’s just the first season! Each collection of episodes, called “Books,” features a fresh set of characters and moral quandaries. The train’s unique setting allows for some of the most visually arresting storytelling in any medium. That, alongside the deeply moving personal stories, means “Infinity Train’s” potential is, well, infinite. But, fair warning: only board this one if you have a box of tissues nearby!

#93: “The Smurfs” (1981-89)

At a time when most animated programs spent a handful of seasons in the cutthroat Saturday morning slot before fading into obscurity, a group of little, blue hooligans exceeded every expectation thrown at them. You probably already know their names. Spawning an unprecedented nine seasons and more ancillary media than we can name, “The Smurfs” dominated pop culture in the 80s, and for good reason. The charming stories of Papa Smurf, Smurfette, Brainy Smurf, and the others constantly entertained audiences to the moon and back. Sometimes, literally! With that kind of success, it’s safe to say “The Smurfs” will leave you feeling anything but blue.

#92: “The Amazing World of Gumball” (2011-)

Well, one thing’s for certain; this title is no lie. Gumball’s world really is amazing. Bursting at the seams with colorful characters, sharp humor, and undeniable life, all it takes is a single viewing to see that this show is something special. The secret ingredient is that “Gumball” is always reinventing itself. One episode is a laugh-out-loud comedy, the next is a serious contemplation on mental illness, and the next may not even be 2D at all. “Gumball” is always serving its story first, no matter what it takes, and that’s led to some truly outstanding episodes over the years. “Amazing” really is the only way to describe it.

#91: “Rocko’s Modern Life” (1993-96)

There aren’t many TV programs, animated or not, that you can appreciate as both a child and an adult. That’s what makes “Rocko’s Modern Life” such an underrated gem. While Rocko’s frightened adventures in O-Town are quirky enough for younger audiences to enjoy, it’s also chock-full of some gut-busting innuendos and double-entendres. For example, we’ll never be able to look at Dr. Bendova[b] the same ever again. In stark contrast to other animated shows at the time, “Rocko’s Modern Life” trusted its audience to figure out the joke. If not immediately, then later when they grew up. Given its cult status, we’d wager it succeeded, and then some.

#90: “The Legend of Vox Machina” (2022-)

In 2015, a bunch of nerdy voice actors got together and began streaming their “Dungeons and Dragons” campaign. Seven years later, it led to an animated adaptation unlike anything else. “Critical Role” is known for its expansive narrative and irreplaceable cast banter, two things that this series captures to a tee. The returning voice actors definitely do a lot of the heavy lifting, but major props have to go to the animation department, too. And the composers. Really, everyone deserves their flowers. The best part of all is that, since “Vox Machina” is based on “Critical Role” campaigns, the next, great season is just a roll of the dice away.

#89: “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” (1989-90)

#88: “Danger Mouse” (1981-92)

#87: “Duckman” (1994-97)

#86: “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic” (2010-19)

#85: “Courage the Cowardly Dog” (1999-2002)

Only the best genre fare understands there’s a thin line between fun and fright. Its name is “Courage the Cowardly Dog.” Don’t get us wrong; this is a horror show from top to bottom, featuring some of the most nightmare-fuel moments to ever grace the small screen. It’s also a hilarious farce starring a hopelessly stressed dog as he tries to save his clueless owners. The way “Courage” balances its various tones in each and every episode is nothing short of masterful, especially since it also pushes the envelope on surreal animation styles. It’s a courageous effort, indeed.

#84: “Chowder” (2007-10)

#83: “CatDog” (1998-2005)

#82: “Castlevania” (2017-21)

#81: “Mighty Mouse” franchise (1942-)

#80: “Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law” (2000-07; 2018)

“Attorney at Law” followed in the footsteps of “Space Ghost Coast to Coast,” which similarly used Barbera’s characters in a faux talk show. In this crossover palooza, Harvey Birdman is a washed-up superhero who’s found himself on a new career path: criminal law. Who are his clients, you ask? None other than cartoon characters from other Hanna Barbera works, including Scooby-Doo and Yogi Bear. Heck, even Harvey himself is from “Birdman and the Galaxy Trio.” It’s an endlessly clever concept that allows “Attorney at Law” to poke fun at Barbera’s esteemed legacy while also celebrating it. The verdict is in: “Attorney at Law” is just that good.

#79: “Happy Tree Friends” (2000-)

#78: “Wacky Races” (1968-69)

#77: “Peppa Pig” (2004-)

#76: “Doug” (1991-94; 1996-99)

#75: “The Ren & Stimpy Show” (1991-96)

How do you describe a show that so thoroughly rejects all conventions? “Ren & Stimpy” is simply “Ren & Stimpy.” Rather than cohesive structure or tone, the series threw all kinds of absurdist concepts at the wall to see what would stick. And yet, somehow, a groundbreaking animated program came out of it. The outrageousness became “Ren & Stimpy’s” claim to fame. To this day, you’ll struggle to find anything as off-the-wall bonkers as this show was on a weekly basis. That’s just “Ren & Stimpy” for you. It was unapologetically bizarre to the very end, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

#74: “Todd McFarlane’s Spawn” (1997-99)

#73: “Undone” (2019-22)

#72: “Inspector Gadget” (1983-85)

#71: “Garfield and Friends” (1988-94)

#70: “Steven Universe” (2013-19)

There are a lot of worthwhile corners in this universe. It’s one part endearing coming-of-age story, one part epic space opera, and one part action-packed anime. Altogether, the final production dazzles as bright as an actual gemstone. It really can’t be understated how much “Steven Universe” impacted animation. When most shows played it safe with low-key, episodic installments, Steven’s story adopted an ambitious, serialized narrative with dozens of characters and themes. Despite the odds, it pulled it all off with aplomb. That’s without even mentioning its revolutionary portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, either. Is there any wonder why “Steven Universe” won a Peabody Award?

#69: “Primal” (2019-)

#68: “The Real Ghostbusters” (1986-91)

#67: “ThunderCats” (1985-89)

#66: “Danny Phantom” (2004-07)

#65: “Invader Zim” (2001-02; 2006)

Alien invasions have never been so much fun! Major props go to Zim himself, an invader from planet Irk whose only real weapon is his incomparable incompetence. Thankfully, he doesn’t let it get him down and continues his quest to enslave Earth, no matter how ridiculous - or funny - it becomes. We could fill a whole list of reasons why “Invader Zim” just works. From its stylized art direction, to its unparalleled comic timing, to Richard Steven Horvitz[c]’s career-defining voice work, this is one of the rare shows that comes together on every front. It’s a real shame Nickelodeon canceled “Invader Zim” before it got the run it deserved.

#64: “The Proud Family” (2001-05)

#63: “Voltron: Legendary Defender” (2016-18)

#62: “Blue Eye Samurai” (2023-)

#61: “The Owl House” (2020-23)

#60: “Gargoyles” (1994-97)

Standing as tall and unshakeable as actual Gargoyles, this show remains a rock-solid example of animation at its finest. On the surface, plucking a bunch of mythological creatures and dropping them in modern-day New York is prime for fish-out-of-water conflicts. But, “Gargoyles” handles its characters with a refreshing amount of care, ensuring their transition is presented with honest and lengthy character arcs. The same can be said for all its storylines. At every turn, “Gargoyles” bucked the status quo by building its world up across multiple episodes. As thrilling as it is complex, “Gargoyles” is still a worthy watch today.

#59: “The Venture Bros.” (2003-18)

#58: “Kim Possible” (2002-07)

#57: “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” (1983-85)

#56: “Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends” (2004-09)

#55: “The Transformers” (1984-87)

These days, the robots in disguise are anything but, and you have this show to thank for it. Up until then, the toyline’s lore was pretty thin, meaning it was up to “The Transformers” to establish just about everything that’s made the franchise what it is. That includes the character’s personalities, their relationships, the ongoing story - the whole shebang. Even though it primarily existed to sell toys, “The Transformers” went the extra mile to ensure each new form, upgrade, and character felt like a natural part of its universe. Plus, on its own, it’s simply a well-done sci-fi show.

#54: “Darkwing Duck” (1991-92)

#53: “Hey Arnold!” (1996-2004)

#52: “Clone High” (2002-03; 2023-24)

#51: “Regular Show” (2010-17)

#50: “Arcane” (2021-24)

The tale of two sisters embroiled in the class warfare of a grimy, steampunk world is so arresting, you’ll forget this is based on a video game. “Arcane” is stunning; not just because it sheds the long-standing curse of bad video game adaptations, but also because of how impeccable it is as a work of art. Emphasis on the word “art,” because any still frame from this series could be hung in the Louvre. Still, “Arcane’s” real claim to fame is its exceptional character work, which textures Vi and Powder until they’re not just relatable, they’re full-on real. You could even say this show is in a legendary league of its own.

#49: “The Magic School Bus” (1994-97)

#48: “Superman: The Animated Series” (1996-2000)

#47: “King of the Hill” (1997-2010)

#46: “The Spectacular Spider-Man” (2008-09)

#45: “Popeye” franchise (1933-)

Armed with nothing more than a can of spinach and a whole lot of pirate pride, Popeye the Sailor rode the waves all the way to animation greatness. It’s amazing he’s stuck around so long when, all things considered, his shtick is pretty straightforward. Some ruffian picks a fight, Popeye eats his vegetables, gets even, and rides off into the sunset. Usually, with Olive Oyl at his side. There’s some magic to the formula that’s kept Popeye continually relevant. In a way, he has the simplicity to thank for it. No matter the year or medium, you can always count on Popeye for a good round of vegetable-fueled fisticuffs.

#44: “The Fairly OddParents” (2001-17)

#43: “Dexter’s Laboratory” (1996-2003)

#42: “Big Mouth” (2017-)

#41: “The Jetsons” (1962-63; 1985-87)

#40: “Invincible” (2021-)

This show has all the makings of an action-packed coming-of-age story: bright spandex, exciting plots, and… tons of bloodshed? Yeah, “Invincible” is not quite the sunny superhero cartoon you may expect. It’s squarely aimed at an adult audience, which allows it to indulge in some incredibly brutal and graphic fight scenes. “Invincible” also has license to explore very mature themes, too. Just with equally mature language. Remarkably, the show sifts through it all and never loses sight of Mark Grayson’s journey to become as indestructible as his name. It’s an incredibly gratifying story - that is, assuming you can even make it past the red-stained first episode.

#39: “Aqua Teen Hunger Force” (2000-15; 2023)

#38: “Ben 10” (2005-08)

#37: “Rugrats” (1991-2004)

#36: “Teen Titans” (2003-06)

#35: “Bob’s Burgers” (2011-)

Like the parts of a good burger, the Belcher family is a reliable recipe guaranteed to satisfy. The story is the patty, and toppings are as follows: a slice of situational farce, a sprinkle of absurdism, and an extra helping of family banter. Finally, the characters are the bun that holds it all together. Hanging out with Tina, Gene, Louise, Linda, and Bob is like catching up with old friends. Very dysfunctional, zany friends, but old friends nonetheless. Even better, “Bob’s Burgers” never dips in quality. Any time, anywhere, it’s a full-course meal of comedy that somehow always leaves you hungry for more.

#34: “DuckTales” (1987-90)

#33: “Schoolhouse Rock!” (1973-2009)

#32: “Ed, Edd n Eddy” (1999-2009)

#31: “Æon Flux” (1991-95)

#30: “Justice League” (2001-04) & “Justice League Unlimited” (2004-06)

You want heroes? “Justice League” has them in spades. As the de-facto culmination of the DC animated universe, this crossover combines all the best parts of its expansive roster into one supercharged television event. Most story arcs span several episodes, ensuring each outing is grand enough to warrant such a large-scale effort. And that’s just plain, old “Justice League!” “Unlimited” adds even more fan favorites to the roster, doubling the action, drama, and intrigue. We really shouldn’t be surprised, though. DC’s animated catalogue is so iconic, even the sidekicks have their own fantastic series in “Young Justice.” If you’re a DC fan, these shows are everything you could ever want and more.

#29: “Robot Chicken” (2005-)

#28: “Phineas and Ferb” (2007-)

#27: “The Boondocks” (2005-14)

#26: “The Powerpuff Girls” (1998-2005)

#25: “Peanuts” franchise (1965-)

By now, the “Charlie Brown” holiday specials are pretty much mandatory yearly viewing. Even if they weren’t, all we need to do is play that classic, musical theme to prove why “Peanuts” is such a beloved cornerstone of American animation. Earnest, wholesome, and positively overloaded with heart, Charlie Brown’s adventures are a shining example of how to keep getting up no matter how many times you whiff a football kick. Or you get a rock for Halloween. Or your neighbor overcharges you for psychiatric help. The point is, we’ll be cherishing Charlie Brown about as long as Linus has been holding onto his blanket.

#24: “Animaniacs” (1993-98)

#23: “Futurama” (1999-2003; 2008-13; 2023-)

#22: “Arthur” (1996-2022)

#21: “Gravity Falls” (2012-16)

#20: “X-Men ‘97” (2024-)

Over twenty-five years after “X-Men: The Animated Series” ended its generation-defining run, Disney released a reboot that didn’t just honor the original, it surpassed it. Trust us, that’s saying something. Deepening the already-complex stories of its predecessor while adding smoother animation and outstanding music, “X-Men ‘97” justifiably took the world by “storm.” Pun fully intended. Still, the best part of the reboot is its reverence for what came before. Everything from the show’s stylized aesthetic to the returning voice cast turns “‘97” into a walking, talking love letter to old-school fans. There’s no denying it; these X-Men are X-quisite.

#19: “Bluey” (2018-)

Is there anything more universally enticing than that classic, childlike sense of wonder? It’s a timeless experience, and “Bluey” knows it. So, instead of watering down its honest messaging, the show goes in the opposite direction, becoming one of the rare programs that parents and kids can not just enjoy together, but actually learn something from. It never feels like Bluey and her family are trying to teach you a lesson, though. The morals extend naturally from the series’ grounded conflicts and are usually sandwiched between good-natured laughs. Whether it’s resolving petty squabbles or learning how to donate old toys, “Bluey” will always leave a smile on your face.

#18: “Adventure Time” (2010-18)

What time is it? Well, the answer should be obvious. The story of Jake the Dog and Finn the Human is truly like nothing else, but you probably don’t need to hear that from us. “Adventure Time”’s cross-generational appeal has earned it one of the most devoted online fanbases in modern memory. If that’s not a sign of quality, we don’t know what is. But, if that’s still not enough, all it takes is one trip to the Land of Ooo to understand that this show has an unmatched creative zest. Throw in some downright legendary characters like Marceline, Princess Bubblegum, and the Ice King, and it’s clear why the fun never ends with “Adventure Time.”

#17: “Beavis and Butt-Head” (1993-97; 2011; 2022-23)

It’s no stretch to say this adult comedy exceeded expectations. After all, who expected nuanced political commentary from a show with a character named after a behind? Or, that the crass fusion of low comedy and searing analysis would become a ratings smash for MTV? And yet, even decades after its original airing, “Beavis and Butt-Head”’s dumbwitted legacy has only grown more relevant. Audiences clearly agree, having shown up for two separate revivals, a pair of feature-length films, and the fantastic spinoff “Daria.” If history is any indication, Beavis and Butt-Head will be around for a while, and we’re definitely not complaining about that.

#16: “Samurai Jack” (2001-04; 2017)

Actions speak louder than words. Or, at least, that’s what creator Genndy Tartakovsky wound up saying through this ambitious animated program. Instead of overly complex plotlines or lengthy dialogue scenes, a lot of “Samurai Jack”’s story is told through fight scenes. And naturally, they’re really, really good fight scenes. The choreography and storyboarding are at the very top of the industry even by today's standards. Not just that, the way the show manages to weave a compelling narrative into each action sequence is a masterclass in visual storytelling. As a result, “Samurai Jack” isn’t just a great animated show, it’s great because it’s animated.

#15: “BoJack Horseman” (2014-20)

There’s not many out there shows that can bounce back from a rocky first impression. Then again, there aren't any shows like “BoJack Horseman,” period. And that’s not just because it stars a talking horse trying to reignite his acting career. No, even compared to all that, the most important factor of its success is how well it abandons the confines of its own genre. It’s not quite a comedy, and not exactly a drama, either. Instead, it offers a unique brand of heartbreaking humor that delivers both laughs and tears, often within the same episode. Suffice it to say, this is no ordinary cartoon, but that’s precisely what makes it utterly unforgettable.

#14: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” (1987-96)

On principle, page-to-screen adaptations are to be approached with caution. But, this is the rare interpretation that doesn’t just do its source material justice, it arguably improves it. Most of the franchise’s most iconic elements are original to this animated series. We’re talking about the Ninja Turtles’ pizza obsession, their colorful identifying masks, and even their go-to sayings. The cartoon’s impact on the future of the brand can’t be understated. But of course, none of that would have happened if the show itself had lacked Turtle Power. Thankfully, the incredible action and pitch-perfect comedic timing ensured it was much faster-paced than its namesake reptiles. By the time it adapted the comics’ darker tone, Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michaelangelo were already cultural icons.

#13: “Family Guy” (1999-2003; 2005-)

As early as its first episode, “Family Guy” faced some blowback for its lewd and vulgar brand of comedy. Of course, over twenty years later, that humor has pretty much become its calling card. The Griffin family and their friends embrace the scandalous and taboo unlike anything else, and that’s given the show a nearly unprecedented legacy in comedy and popular culture overall. Fervid fan support even saved it following its premature cancellation. And if the Griffins can come back to life after getting the ax, what can’t they handle? Look, “Family Guy” may not always reflect those good old-fashioned values, but it sure is funny. And quite frankly, that’s all it needs to be.

#12: “Tom & Jerry” franchise (1940-)

It’s not easy to stay relevant and entertaining throughout numerous decades. Yet despite the changing times, everything from the “Tom and Jerry” universe continues to be breezy, charming, and downright hilarious viewing. There’s no need to catch viewers with a mousetrap, since the franchise repeatedly finds ways to innovate on its formula without abandoning it, either. Indeed, even though the title characters seldom talk, their rivalry says a lot about the tropes and gags that define animation. Oh, and don’t even get us started on its impeccable use of music to accentuate each and every punchline. At this point, here’s hoping Tom doesn’t catch Jerry any time soon.

#11: “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” (2008-14; 2020)

At a time when the galaxy far, far away really wasn’t all that distant in our memories, Cartoon Network delivered a series that made revisiting the franchise feel like a no-brainer. It’s downright impressive for anything to replicate the wondrous spirit of “Star Wars,” let alone within the confines of a half-hour animated program. But “The Clone Wars” somehow does it, all the while introducing new ideas, intricate storylines, and, of course, Ahsoka Tano. The fact that there was enough fan demand for a wrap-up season to be released six years after the show initially ended speaks for itself. After all, even compared to its blockbuster cousins, “The Clone Wars” represents “Star Wars” at its absolute best — and it’s hard to get better than that.

#10: “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” (1969-78)

The mystery of this show’s success is pretty easy to solve, no meddling kids or splitting up necessary. It would appear that the real ‘culprits’ were, in fact, Fred, Velma, Shaggy, Daphne, and Scooby all along. And boy are we thankful for them. Their cheesy but charming banter is a Scooby Snack that never gets stale, especially when paired with a gothic aesthetic and memorable catchphrases. While the 2010 series “Mystery Incorporated” found great success with its serialized style, there’s something undeniably cozy about the classic, original Scooby formula. After all, it takes a special kind of program to kickstart a franchise that’s still solving crimes over half a century later. Clearly, the question of the show's enduring legacy is an open and shut case.

#9: “Rick and Morty” (2013-)

These two oddballs’ interdimensional adventures have propelled them all the way to the top of the pop culture zeitgeist. That’s thanks in no small part to the infinite number of places the series can go, which isn’t hyperbole. The multiversal plot devices means each episode is crazier, funnier, and most importantly, different from what came before. There’s been very few shows in all of television that boast as much inventive wit as “Rick and Morty” does on a regular basis. Of course, it helps that there’s a thick layer of crude humor on top, too. Rick and Morty can explore as many universes as they want, but if you ask us, nothing will match the success they’ve found in this one.

#8: “The Flintstones” (1960-66)

Their show may be set in the Stone Age, but there’s nothing prehistoric about this family. Sure, the standard sitcom setup is as classic as it comes. But, “The Flintstones” endures because of its simplicity, not in spite of it. The hominess each and every episode evokes is warm, charming, and completely timeless. However, don’t mistake this straightforward approach for a lack of ambition. On the contrary, “The Flintstones” drew a lot of attention for its fearless portrayal of a modern family! Fred and Wilma sharing a bed may not seem like a big deal now, but it was something to behold in the ‘60s. Oh, and they did all of this while being the first cartoon on primetime TV. “Yabba-Dabba-Doo,” indeed.

#7: “SpongeBob SquarePants” (1999-)

Something in the secret Krabby Patty formula has kept this show’s recipe fresh, though it’s more likely we have the titular yellow fry cook to thank. Frankly, any program that can last this long in the ever-changing entertainment landscape is worthy of praise. But “SpongeBob SquarePants” has not only found a way to stay relevant, it’s also practically defined a generation’s sense of humor. The amount of epic quips and gut-busting memes SpongeBob and the rest of the Bikini Bottom gang are responsible for is nearly unparalleled. All signs point to “weast”, so we’re betting that the trend continues. After all, the series has already spawned movies, spinoffs, a musical, and more, with no signs of stopping. “SpongeBob” isn’t just staying afloat — it’s riding the waves.

#6: “South Park” (1997-)

This cartoon has been funny more times — and in more ways — than Kenny has died. For those keeping track, that’s a lot. The main and recurring characters make the titular place feel like a real, breathing town. Granted, it’s one with a lot of bad language and a questionable respect for the law! As a matter of fact, the show’s penchant for controversy has landed it in hot water more than once, and it was even banned in China. Of course, this being “South Park,” it often wears its scandals as badges of honor. And really, that’s the perfect encapsulation of why it works so well. Yes, it’s loud, obnoxious, and the crudest of the crude. But it never once apologizes for it.

#5: “Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2005-08)

Long ago, we watched TV in dull, generic harmony. Then, everything changed when “Avatar” debuted. It had all of the bright action sequences and chuckle-worthy gags you’d expect. But it also featured a dense world, an ambitious narrative, and took a rare sophisticated approach to its weighty themes. With all that, the Avatar didn’t need water, earth, fire, or air to become one of the all-time cartoon greats. Although with production values this slick, they definitely didn’t hurt. The show is easily one of the most beloved properties of the 21st century, and that’s almost entirely because of how much consideration and thought went into making it. “Avatar: The Last Airbender” wasn’t just given the respect it needed, it was given the respect it deserved.

#4: “Mickey Mouse” franchise (1928-)

From the moment Mickey hopped on that steamboat and began to whistle, a phenomenon was born. It’s only grown in the century that’s followed. There’s no denying Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and the others are still some of the most recognizable animated characters ever created. Sometimes, they're in their own clubhouse. Sometimes, they’re starring in full-on features. And, sometimes, they’re crossing over into other Disney properties altogether. But, they’re always a joy to see. There’s just no end to how much Mickey and the others have influenced the course of Disney, if not animation as a medium. Who knew a mouse could make such a loud impression?

#3: “Batman: The Animated Series” (1992-95)

The Caped Crusader has always been defined by his gritty storylines and mature themes — both things that weren't exactly expected of a kid-friendly cartoon. Yet “The Animated Series”’ willingness to explore Batman’s true nature is precisely why its legacy lives on to this day. If anything, its cast list alone is proof of its staying power. Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill delivered epic performances as Batman and Joker, respectively, and would go on to voice the characters for decades. It’s clear that, even decades later, modern comic book stories are still indebted to what “Batman: The Animated Series” accomplished. This is far from being the titular hero’s only adventure on the small screen, but there’s no denying it’s his best.

#2: “The Simpsons” (1989-)

One could say there are three constants in life: death, taxes, and “The Simpsons.” That’s no exaggeration; it’s literally the longest-running American animated program. It holds the same record for American sitcoms… and for American scripted primetime shows. Still, its biggest achievement might be that Homer’s go-to expression, “D’oh”, was added to the Oxford English Dictionary. Talk about a resume. It’s safe to say that almost every modern adult animated program owes their existence to “The Simpsons.” The also-great “Futurama” even pokes fun at the connection. It’s all a testament to how fun it is watching the Simpson family navigate life in Springfield alongside friends and foes. By now, the hilarious, satirical series is essentially a cultural touchstone — one that will probably outlive us all.

#1: “Looney Tunes” franchise (1930-)

It’s only fitting that the golden age of American animation delivered the undisputed gold standard of comedy. Near the start of the genre’s revolution, these Toons discovered that talking animals and cartoon hijinks formed a winning combination. Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and the others have practically defined the genre as we know it, while stumbling upon a few iconic catchphrases along the way, Doc. Indeed, their influence on modern animation is undeniable — just think of the countless amazing shows, like “Animaniacs,” that have taken cues from “Looney Tunes”. As if that wasn’t enough, Bugs even has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Clearly, this franchise won’t be saying “that’s all, folks!” any time soon.

What’s your all-time favorite animated show? We know it’s hard, so feel free to give us your own list in the comments below!

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