Time really flies, but television stays the same! The shows we grew up with can make us feel nostalgic for our past, or just give us a quick escape back to our youth. Whether you were raised on Flintstones or Timmy Turner, there are some shows that are so influential that they're sure to last for generations to come...
The Flintstones
Living in Bedrock, Fred Flintstone is the patriarch of a modern Stone Age family. Aired in 1960, Fred, his wife Wilma, and little daughter Pebbles lived next to Barney and Betty Rubble. Barney and Betty eventually adopted a super-strong son named Bamm-Bamm. The show is considered to be one of the biggest cartoons of the 21st century, still being monetized to this day.
Batman: The Animated Series
Starting in 1992, this animated series would forever change the image of Batman. Up until this series, Batman was typically depicted as a goofy and lovable superhero. In the 1992 cartoon, however, he was given a much more stoic and thoughtful persona that has persisted into his characterization to this day. Who knew cartoons could be so serious...
Adventure Time
Created in 2010, this show follows a twelve-year-old boy named Finn and his magical dog, Jake, as they roam the Land of Ooo battling evil and solving the city's problems. Their biggest rival, the Ice King, searches for a wife throughout the series and sets his sights on Finn's friend Princess Bubblegum. The duo makes some friends along the way who help them protect the Princess.
Dexter's Laboratory
Debuting in 2005, this show follows child genius Dexter and his adventures in his lab. His older sister, Deedee doesn't share his smarts but loves to play around with his snazzy new inventions, which he whips up easily every day. His nemesis, Mandark, is another child genius at his school, Huber Elementary. And of course, Mom and Dad have no clue what's going on behind closed doors.
The Jetsons
The younger generation might not recollect this classic series. Debuting in 1962, the Jetson family are living a life in a utopian future. Houses are in the sky, people work three days a week, flying saucers replace cars, and all problems can be solved with a quirky new invention. George, Jane, Judy, Elroy, and the robot maid Rosie join together to make this series great. And of course Astro, their adorable dog.
Rugrats
Who doesn't miss these adorable rascals? Fans of this 1991 classic joined Tommy Pickles as he navigated through the weird and wonderful world of being a baby. Joined by his friends Chucky, Susie, Phil, and Lil, the kids try to avoid Tommy's mean older cousin Angelica. They also use their imagination to go on adventures back in time, to the future, and everywhere in between.
Gravity Falls
In the 2012 show, Gravity Falls, twin siblings Dipper and Mabel Pines are sent to live with their great-uncle, Grunkle Stan, over the summer. They work in his tourist Mystery Shack in Gravity Falls, Oregon. The thing is, Gravity Falls has some secrets in its deep forests. With the help of their quirky coworkers, the kids discover some of the hidden truths of this mysterious town and risk it all in the process...
Teen Titans
Teen Titans first aired in 2003. Robin, formerly Batman's sidekick, is back on screen to protect the Earth. He and his team, which includes Starfire, Raven, Cyborg, and Beast Boy, live in the Titans Tower together. Aside from Robin, who only has a utility belt and a quick mind, each team member possesses unique skills to help fight a new iteration of villains. With these guys watching over Jump City, citizens can rest easy.
Justice League
Ever wonder where superheroes go when they're not saving the planet? Well, in 2001's Justice League, your favorite superpowered friends keep a watchful eye from their orbiting spaceship. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, and others, battle forces not just confined to Earth, but in outer space. Turns out, crime truly never sleeps, not even out of this world.
Rick and Morty
Rick Sanchez is living with his daughter Beth and her husband Jerry, when they realize Beth'd dad is a little unhinged. This adult cartoon focuses on Rick, the sociopathic scientist, and his adventures with his grandson, Morty. His inventions get them into tight spots on Earth and in different dimensions. Luckily, these two are willing to do anything to get back home...truly anything. It first aired in 2013.
Pokémon
Got to catch them all! Ash Ketchum is just beginning his Pokémon training when he gets a cool Pikachu monster instead of a typical first Pokémon. Ash thought winning gym badges would be a breeze, but such is not the case for the young trainer. He's joined by friends and former gym leaders Brock and Misty as the trio goes on quests to make new friends and collect new monsters throughout the 1997 show.
Dragon Ball Z
Dragon Ball Z (1989) is not just any ordinary anime show. The series follows the adventures of protagonist Goku. He, along with the other Z Warriors, work to protect the Earth against any possible villains. The classic action-adventure show reinforces the ever-present battle between good versus bad. Focusing on teamwork, loyalty, and trust, this show demonstrates what it means to be one of the best.
Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?
R'uh r'oh r'aggy! Join the mystery mutt Scooby-Doo as he and his friends track down the truth behind reports of ghosts, goblins, and ghouls around the world. The 1969 show features the rest of the crew, including Shaggy, Velma, Daphne, and Fred, these kids will meddle in any evil plot and usually end up in some pretty tight spots as a result. Oh, the things they do just to get a Scooby snack...
Duck Tales
Donald Duck is quite a beloved character, but this show is all about his adorable duckling nephews: Huey, Dewey, and Louie. The triplets are sent away to live with their rich and grumpy uncle, Scrooge McDuck. Together, the four ducks find a way to defeat villains who want to steal Scrooge McDuck's gold and wealth (of which, there is a lot). Older fans might be shocked to hear the show was recently rebooted! The original started in 1987.
The Bugs Bunny Show
Bugs Bunny might be one of the most well-known cartoon characters of all time, and for good reason. After bothering Elmer Fudd for years with his iconic "What's up, Doc?" catchphrase, the rabbit finally got his own series: The Bugs Bunny Show. The show, which started in 1960, ran in syndication for almost 40 years. Now that's what you call a timeless classic...
Pinky and the Brain
Pinky and Brain star as two lab mice who live in a cage in a research facility. Brain is self-centered also has a plan, while Pinky is good-natured but not very smart. Together, the two tries (and fail) to take over the world from the confines of their tiny mouse cage. While they might not have world domination, they at least will always have the other by their side. It aired in 1995.
Animaniacs
Animaniacs is the show that taught a lot of people the song to name the fifty states, but this show was more than just a quirky educational program. Capitalizing on humor styles like wit, slapstick, and pop culture references, the variety show has a large collection of characters. Running from 1993 throughout 1998, the show was great for kids and adults alike! Now that's good TV...
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Four sewer turtles have mutated into talking, upright-walking, crime-fighting ninjas in this hilarious childhood gem. Each turtle is named after a famous painter. In the squad are Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, and Leonardo. The fighters are trained by their rat sensei, Splinter, in order to battle evil in the city above. With danger around every corner, these friends rely on each other to save the world. It aired in 1990.
Family Guy
Peter Griffin is just an everyday guy, and his family members are just as normal as him. However, the show has become one of the most quotable of all time for it's often forgotten pop culture references and iconic characters, such as Stewie, an evil baby bent on world domination. There's also Brian, the talking dog, who might be the only smart character in the series. It first aired in 1999.
Spongebob Squarepants
Debuting in 1999, Spongebob quickly became a favorite for all Nickelodeon kids. Following the life of a sea sponge under the sea while he works as a fry cook at the local fast-food restaurant, The Krusty Krab, this show was an instant classic. He, joined by BFFs Patrick and Sandy, lovingly annoy his neighbor Squidward and care for his pet snail, Gary. The show is full of fun hijinks!
Futurama
When pizza-deliverer Fry wakes up 1,000 years in the future, he learns that he was frozen into the future. His only living descendant, an old and tired scientist who operates a cargo delivery service. The family is joined by other cast members. These friends include Capt. Leela, an accountant named Hermes, an intern named Amy, an annoying obnoxious robot named Bender and an alleged doctor named Zoidberg. It debuted in 1999.
Josie and the Pussycats
These singers are here to fight crime! Whenever the girls are on their way to a show, they find their way into a crazy adventure. Usually battling some evildoer bent of world domination, The Pussycats were tasked with taking these bad guys down. They would foil their plans and return quickly to their gig, recording studio, or something else, often to the tune of one of their own songs. It debuted in 1970.
The Pink Panther Show
Before it was a hit movie, the pink panther made his debut on the small screen. The animated series of shorts ran between 1969 and 1978, starring the cartoon Pink Panther character. It ran on both NBC and ABC. The panther has certainly retained his acting chops. He still regularly appears in advertising and other cartoon programs. A legend never dies!
South Park
South Park has certainly made an impact over the years. The animated series is made for adults only. Stan, Kyle, Kenny, and Cartman star in this show that aims to offend anyone and everyone, no groups excluded. The program has made takes on Saddam Hussein, Osama bin Laden, politicians of both sides, and celebrities of every kind. Also, Kenny usually dies in every episode. It debuted in 1997.
Tom and Jerry
Ah, the old cat and mouse game. Tom and Jerry don't talk but that doesn't mean they don't say a lot. Created in 1940 by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, the duo has been battling for several decades. The team has made over 160 theatrical short films with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. The cat (Tom) and mouse (Jerry) have a friendly rivalry that keeps viewers coming back for more.
The Simpsons
This animated series is the longest-running cartoon ever put on television. The series focuses on the lives of the Simpson family, which includes little son Bart, daughter Lisa, Marge, and of course, Homer. Homer is surrounded by characters like his annoying neighbors and fellow bar patrons, but he always returns home to his wild, wacky, and wonderful family. It started in 1989.
Looney Tunes
Starting from 1930 to 1969, Looney Tunes is considered to be the golden age of American animation. It was known for introducing characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd, Sylvester, Granny, Yosemite Sam, Foghorn Leghorn, Marvin the Martian, Pepé Le Pew, Speedy Gonzales, Tasmanian Devil, the Road Runner, and even Wile E. Coyote...
Recess
The children at the Third Street School are looking forward to one part of the day: recess. And at that hour of freedom, they make it their job to protect the other kids on the playground from mean teachers and bullies. Despite King Bob and his minions, who rule the school and enforce his unwritten laws, the team of T.J, Ashley, Vince, Gus, Gretchen, and Mikey defend the schoolyard. It debuted in 1997.
6teen
Minimum wage jobs as a teenager are no fun unless you've got your friends. In the Galleria Mall, a group of 16-year-olds is working through their summer jobs. This 2004 show follows Jonesy Garcia, Nikki Wong, Jude Lizowski, Jen Masterson, Wyatt Williams, and Caitlin Cooke as they spend their days learning the ropes at their first jobs and high school as a whole. Neither one is that easy...
Codename: Kids Next Door
No adults allowed in this kid's headquarters. Debuting in 1998, five friends known as Kids Next Door join together to protect local kids from vicious adults. With each other by their side, they can get out of the dentist or summer camp by using spy technology, elaborate contraptions, and their quick wit. Each kid, named a number 1-5, has their own special ability...
Kim Possible
When she's not avoiding mean girls at school, Kim Possible is fighting the evil crime of her small town (of which there is quite a lot.) She, joined by her best friend Ron Stoppable, is on a mission to save the world and get through her high school experience. Her biggest rival was Dr. Drakken, but more so his sidekick Shego, who had the same abilities as Kim, but malicious intent. It started in 2002.
The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy
This was one of Cartoon Networks weirder show pitches. Billy and Mandy (2000) are a pair of young friends (barely) who befriend the Grim Reaper after defeating him in a limbo contest. His punishment for losing is befriending the two weird kids. Mandy's bossy and mean nature if offset by Billy's curious attitude and goofy sense of the world. Together, hilarious escapades are bound to happen.
Ed, Edd n Eddy
These three boys might have the same name, but they've got very different personalities. Ed, Edd, and Eddy (1999) are clueless about girls, bullies, and life, but that won't stop them from trying to turn a profit. Ed, Ed, and Eddy all offer something different to the group, whether that be brains, brawn, or unbridled confidence. As long as they can get a jawbreaker candy, they're happy.
Courage the Cowardly Dog
Courage is quite a cowardly dog. This timid pink puppy from 1996 has serious paranoia problems regarding his old owners. His caretakers, an old couple, live on a farm full of bizarre adversaries that threaten their wellbeing. Courage must overcome his fear every episode and help save his aged but beloved owners, Eustace and Muriel. Everything from monsters to paranormal spirits is after them!
Power Puff Girls
These superpowered little girls are not to be messed with. Created in a lab by Professor Utonium, these girls are genetically made by sugar, spice, and everything nice. The sisters, named Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup, regularly rescue Townsville from local villains like Mojo Jojo, the Gangreen Gang, and Him. Though they have differing personalities, they are committed to justice. It debuted in 1998.
CatDog
Is it a cat? A dog? Nope, it's a catdog! These conjoined animals deal with the unique challenges of their perplexing existence. The brothers face constant bullying from the local Greaser Dogs. They also have different goals for their combined life. Cat wants to be rich and famous, while Dog is happy just living a normal doggie life. As long as he can chase a garbage truck, he's sure to be happy. It debuted in 1998.
The Fairly OddParents
Timmy Turner (2001) woke up one day to find out that he was selected as a child who deserved fairy godparents that could grant his every wish. Most of his wishes include tormenting his evil babysitter, Vicky, or getting the most out of his childhood. However, as Timmy often learns, having anything you could ever want at your fingertips is better in theory than in practice...
Johnny Bravo
Johnny Bravo (1995) is the biggest man on the block, and he wants you to know it. The cartoon brute contains no shortage of brashness and confidence, and he's pretty convinced that all women want to date him. Is he right? Well, not always. With his big blonde hair reaching to the sky, he's known for his aggressive karate moves, tight black tee, and very cool sunglasses...
The Wild Thornberrys
This is not your typical family, and you definitely won't find them in your local suburban neighborhood. Instead, these explorers travel the world to meet unique and interesting animals. Even better, Eliza can talk to animals, which helps her understand their plights and issues. With her older sister and younger brother, two wacky parents, and a talking monkey as a pet, what could go wrong? It debuted in 1998.
Arthur
Arthur Read has big glasses and big dreams. The young student is a perfect example for kids dealing with tough troubles like childhood traumas and difficulties in homework, schoolteachers, and playground bullies. He has sisters that he also quarrels with, but loves playing with his friends, he finds where he belongs. Francine, Buster, Brain, Muffy, and Sue Ellen are all part of his team. It debuted in 1996.
Hey Arnold!
Starting in 1996 and running until 2004, Hey Arnold is a classic show for all 90s kids. The show is centralized around the main character Arnold. The fourth-grader isn't exactly the coolest kid on the block, but he sure has a lot of good friends. He lives with his grandparents in an inner-city apartment, and many of his adventures center on life as a kid in the big city, as well as school endeavors...
ChalkZone
Imagine drawing your own perfect world. That's exactly what student Rudy does when he finds a magical piece of chalk. Rudy draws portals with his magic chalk that allows him to enter another world: the Chalk Zone (2002). He can draw characters that come to life, like his best friend Snap, who is a blue robot-looking drawing who accompanies him in the different worlds.
Lilo and Stitch: The Series
Your favorite adorable alien and Hawaiian kiddo are back, and this time, they brought all their friends. In this 2003 series adaptation of one of the most famous animations, Lilo and her alien friends return to Hawaii to find new homes like what Stitch found with her. Of course, since they have unique and special tricks, there are bound to be some silly situations that arise...
The Proud Family
This show debuted in 2001. Penny Proud is your everyday, average teenager. The fourteen-year-old is growing up and having some trouble navigating it. In an effort to gain her independence from her family and face typical teenage drama in junior high, being herself is easier said than done. With her parents, Trudy and Oscar, by her side (as well as her grandma, Sugar Mama) Penny is sure to have some stories...
American Dragon: Jake Long
Jake Long might seem to be just like you, but the fact is, he's pretty unique. In fact, he's actually a descendant of dragons! As if being 13 wasn't hard enough, Jake is also secretly practicing to become the American Dragon and protect all of Manhattan. Thankfully, he's not alone. He has Grandpa Lao Shi to help him. Jake is working to defend all the magical beings living amongst humans in New York. It began in 2005.
The New Casper Cartoon Show
Casper has always been such a friendly ghost, but not everyone understands that! Starting in 1963, this show followed a gang of ghosts as the littlest, Casper, tried to make friends with the people he terrified. He also tries to get his mean cousins, who love to scare people, to renounce their traumatizing ways. They reject this ideology on several occasions. It aired in 1963.
Camp Lazlo
Memory unlocked! Camp Lazlo (2005) follows the Bean Scouts at Camp Kidney. Lazlo, a free-spirited monkey, is joined by all of his Jelly Cabin bunkmates. Clam is an albino rhino and Raj the elephant aren't trying to annoy Scoutmaster Lumpus, but almost always end up doing so. It isn't hard-- Lumpus is determined to make sure nobody enjoys the camp! Can Lazlo and friends make this summer an unforgettable one?
Ben 10
Ben Tennyson was normal once upon a time, but not anymore. The 10-year-old boy finds a magical watch that can turn him into 10 different monsters which include 10 different abilities. Ben, armed with his new alien powers, joins his Grandpa Max and Cousin Gwen to help those in need and stop bad guys. Of course, he uses those powers for some normal kid problems as well! It aired first in 2005.
Chowder
Little boy Chowder (2007) has big dreams of becoming a master of culinary arts. In the meantime though, he works for the chef Mung Daal. Mung isn't just a boss, he also gives Chowder some tips on his relationships and being a chef. Also in the kitchen is Panini (who believes Chowder is her boyfriend) and Shnitzel, a monster who doesn't like Chowder very much. Luckily, his friend Kimchi is by his side!
Total Drama Island
Camp Wawanakwa, might seem like an island retreat, but this fake reality show is anything but easy. Here, a group of 22 teens competes for a $100,000 grand prize by completing challenges and forming alliances. Every few days, teens are either deemed safe or exiled. The lone camper who is voted off must make their exit on the Dock of Shame and into the Boat of Losers. Who will win it all? Only one did, back in 2007.
Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends
Where do your imaginary friends go when you grow up? Well, according to this cartoon, they go to foster homes. Here, grown-up Mac learns that he's too old for an imaginary friend, and must send his beloved Bloo off to the foster care facility. He visits his friend and the other adoptable imaginary friends there, like basketball player Wilt, massive Eduardo, crazy Coco, and the whole Foster Family! It aired in 2004.
Rocket Power
These cool kids just want to play every sport. A group of four friends shares an affinity for action and extreme sports in the cartoon beach town of Ocean Shores, California. Lead by Otto Rocket the group of Reggie, Twister, and Sam practice every aggressive sport they can try. Whether they're skateboarding, mountain biking, rollerblading, or surfing, these kids want the adrenaline. It aired in 1999.
I Am the Greatest: The Adventures of Muhammad Ali
He's not just a boxer, he's also a cartoon character! I Am the Greatest: The Adventures of Muhammad Ali is a cartoon show about the famous boxer Muhammad Ali and his life adventures. The real-life Ali actually voiced his own character! Broadcast on Saturday mornings in the fall of 1977, this NBC show did not do great in the ratings. It was permanently cancelled after just 13 episodes.
Hammerman
Back in the 1970s, every celebrity wanted their own cartoon for some reason. MC Hammer was no exception to the rule. This Saturday morning cartoon starred rapper and pop star MC Hammer for it's entire thirteen episodes run on ABC. Airing in the fall of 1991, the DIC Animation City series received very little acclaim and was cancelled quickly after it's debut.
Mister T
Who knew Mister T would be such a hit with kids? Airing on NBC every Saturday morning from 1983 to 1986, the series depicted Mr. T as a crime-fighting gymnast. The series created a total of 30 episodes and had two seasons. Reruns were picked up by Cartoon Network, and the show still airs occasionally for anyone feeling a little nostalgic for the good ol' Mr. T days.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe
Eternia, a planet of magic, is lead by Prince Adam. He is endowed with "fabulous secret powers" when he holds a powerful sword and becomes the hero He-Man, known as the most powerful person in the universe. He-Man uses his new gifts to defend his land from the evildoer Skeletor. Skeletor's main purpose is to conquer the leading fortress of Castle Grayskull. It debuted in 1983.
Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels
The people of the universe are back to prehistoric times. Captain Caveman is the unlikely hero of this animated series. He, joined by the teen angels, is a prehistoric caveman brought back to life in the modern-day. He's not just another pretty face though, he also fights crime and injustices around the land. His weapon of choice is a large club and a classic battle cry (which is just his own name). It debuted in 1977.
Dudley Do-Right
Dudley Do-Right is here to save the day. Created by Alex Anderson, Chris Hayward and Allan Burns, Dudley isn't your everyday superhero. Stemming from a segment on The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show, this Mounties man was actually a spoof. The series parodied early classic 20th-century melodrama tendencies and the notion of silent film, using only a piano as background noise. It debuted in 1961.
Mr. Peabody
Mr. Peabody is not a mister at all, he's a dog! The anthropomorphic cartoon appeared in the 1950s through the 1960s. Peabody appeared in the "Peabody's Improbable History" segments on the Rocky and Bullwinkle Show. In 2014, he found his way to the big screen when the show was readapted for modern audiences in a movie. The series was recreated in 2015-2017.
Wacky Races
Who knew races could be so...ridiculous. The series followed 11 different cars racing against one another in various road races across North America. With the main villain riding in the Mean Machine, the other racers tried desperately to beat out Dick Dastardly. Some of these racers included Peter Perfect, Rufus Ruffcut, Sergeant Blast and Private Meekly, and the Ant Hill Mob. It debuted in 1968.