20 Animated Shows We Wish Were Still on Today

From epic adventures to quirky comedies, these 20 animated shows left an indelible mark on our childhoods, and we're still craving more of their unforgettable characters and wild storylines.

Alyana Aguja
December 3, 2024
5 min read

20 Animated Shows We Wish Were Still on Today — Khalid Alshehri from Unsplash

Animated shows take us into worlds full of imagination, both fun and poignant. And a few of the greatest haven’t given up on letting us go. From the elemental journeys of Avatar: The Last Airbender to the supernatural hijinks of Gravity Falls, these shows shaped our childhoods and continue influencing new generations. Their unforgettable characters, wily writing, and imaginative settings make us gravely disappointed that they ever stopped because they left a lasting mark on popular culture and on our hearts.

1. Avatar: The Last Airbender

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This epic tale of Aang’s journey to master the elements and bring balance to the world captured hearts like no other. Its deep themes, stunning animation, and unforgettable characters make us yearn for more stories in the Avatar universe. Sure, The Legend of Korra was great, but who wouldn’t want more Team Avatar adventures?

2. Teen Titans (2003)

Cartoon Network from Wikimedia Commons

Dark, humorous, and somehow surprisingly emotional in its execution, this show maintained the perfect blend of superhero actions and teenage drama. However, after that cliffhanging ending, we all got robbed of a true ending. If you are still looking forward to some humor, though not quite like the originals, Teen Titans Go is fun.

3. Futurama

Xeworlebi from Wikimedia Commons

This sci-fi comedy nailed humor, heart, and existential philosophy in one futuristic package. Fry, Leela, and Bender’s misadventures with Planet Express were always full of surprises. While it’s had multiple resurrections, we’d still love even more of its quirky brilliance.

4. Gravity Falls

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Few shows packed as much mystery and charm into two seasons as Gravity Falls. Dipper and Mabel’s summer in the weird and wonderful Gravity Falls left us wanting more cryptic puzzles and wacky adventures. It was a short but unforgettable ride into the supernatural.

5. Kim Possible

Disney Animation from Wikimedia Commons

What’s the sitch? Kim, Ron, and Rufus were the dream team, saving the world and navigating high school with sass and flair. It’s the spy-action show with a beeping communicator we’d still answer in a heartbeat.

6. Danny Phantom

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This half-ghost teen hero delivered ghostbusting action with a side of teenage angst. Danny’s battles against villains like Vlad Plasmius and the Ghost King were legendary. And let’s be honest–the theme song is still going through our heads.

7. The Spectacular Spider-Man

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This animated adaptation of Spider-Man was the perfect blend of action, humor, and heartfelt storytelling. Peter Parker’s struggles as a teen and superhero were portrayed with depth and wit. Its abrupt cancellation left a web of disappointment in which we’re still tangled.

8. Justice League Unlimited

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This superhero ensemble gave out some of the best epic storytelling and character development in such an immense cast. Iconic fights and quiet moments of camaraderie defined DCAU for many. We’d still tune in to watch Batman and Wonder Woman team up any day.

9. Samurai Jack

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Jack’s quest to defeat the evil Aku was an odyssey of style, substance, and stunning visuals. Though it got a final season to wrap up the story, we’d gladly take more of the wandering samurai’s adventures. Let’s face it—Jack’s aesthetic alone deserves another season.

10. Star Wars: The Clone Wars

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This series transformed Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ahsoka Tano into richly developed characters. Its mix of war stories, political intrigue, and Jedi philosophy kept fans glued to the screen. Even with The Bad Batch, we still miss the galaxy-spanning drama of this masterpiece.

11. Batman: The Animated Series

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This one was dark, moody, and undeniably cool, redefining Batman for a generation. Its noir-inspired art style and voice acting set a standard for superhero storytelling. The streets of Gotham haven’t been the same since it’s over.

12. Codename: Kids Next Door

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The KND turned childhood imagination into epic adventures, fighting adult tyranny with treehouse tech. Its humor and inventive world-building made every kid dream of joining Sector V. We’d still love to see what Number 1 and his team are up to now.

13. Invader Zim

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Zim’s goofy attempts to conquer Earth and Dib’s overall quest to stop him were comedy gold. Its dark humor and weird art style still garner a cult following. Imagine what Zim could do today in this meme-driven world.

14. Recess

Disney from Wikimedia Commons

This playground-centric show captured the universal truths of school life with humor and heart. TJ, Spinelli, and the gang’s recess escapades were as adventurous as they were relatable. We’d gladly join them for another “good old-fashioned recess.”

15. The Boondocks

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This satirical powerhouse blends razor-sharp social commentary with dynamic animation. Huey, Riley, and Granddad’s exploits are as relevant today as they were then. With the issues of modern times, imagine how the Freemans would weigh in now.

16. Phineas and Ferb

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The ultimate summer vacation show gave us endless inventions, catchy songs, and Candace’s hilariously futile busting attempts. Phineas and Ferb’s creativity inspired us to maximize our summers. We’re still wondering what they would do next!

17. Chowder

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Such was this surrealist, wistful, whimsy-chomping, cooking-themed adventure filled with fun and laughter for me and my family on a diet of pure pandemonium. Who wants more Mung Daal’s kitchen wizardry with Chowder?

18. The Powerpuff Girls (1998)

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Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup fought to save Townsville and be kids. This sugar, spice, and butt-kicking combination was far ahead of its time. The reboot didn’t have the same punch, so let’s return to the classic trio!

19. King of the Hill

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This grounded, hilarious look at small-town Texas life was surprisingly heartfelt. Hank, Bobby, and the crew’s antics provided endless quotable moments. We could use more of their subtle wisdom and propane-fueled humor in today’s world.

20. Courage the Cowardly Dog

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This creepy yet endearing show had Courage protecting his owners from bizarre threats. Its unique blend of horror and heart was both unsettling and comforting. Who wouldn’t want to revisit the middle of Nowhere for another eerie adventure?