Best 90s Cartoons That Are Still Around Today

Highlights

The Simpsons is an iconic show with smart writing and clever commentary that has enamored fans for decades.
X-Men: The Animated Series introduced viewers to popular comic book characters and left fans wanting more.
SpongeBob SquarePants became a kid-friendly hit that has embedded itself in millennial culture with endless quotable moments.

As a kid who grew up in the 90’s, I can wholeheartedly say that these cartoons were not just a part of my childhood, but they shaped it! From The Simpsons’ witty commentary to SpongeBob’s endless quotable moments, these shows provided us with laughter, excitement, and a sense of belonging.

In the ‘90s, I found myself immersed in a golden age of animated TV. Shows catering to all age groups flooded the airwaves across numerous networks, each striving for dominance. Some truly exceptional shows managed to claim their place atop the heap, demonstrating they had the chops to captivate audiences like none other.

In some instances, certain series from that timeframe would naturally conclude, while others managed to maintain their appeal through timeless humor and themes, captivating audiences for years. Regardless, the most exceptional shows of the ’90s left an indelible mark on pop culture, with their legacies extending well into the present day. Here’s a compilation of some beloved 90s cartoons that continue to thrive today.

5 The Simpsons

The Simpsons Debuted In 1989 (December 17th)

Best 90s Cartoons That Are Still Around Today

Without a doubt, there’s hardly another cartoon as universally recognized and adored as The Simpsons. It’s the endearing yellow family and their endless escapades that have undeniably captivated viewers since its debut, keeping fans hooked for years.

As a dedicated fan since late ’89, I’ve been captivated by The Simpsons’ witty script and insightful commentary on the world, which has kept audiences enthralled for decades. This timeless show has garnered countless awards, showing no signs of slowing down. Without a doubt, it will continue to bring laughter and joy to fans like me for many years to come.

4 X-Men: The Animated Series

X-Men: The Animated Series Debuted In 1992

Watching X-Men: The Animated Series was a common first encounter with Professor X’s School for Exceptional Students. Characters such as Cyclops, Wolverine, and Rogue gained recognition in this relatively serious comic book adaptation.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the show’s adaptation of some well-loved X-Men comic narratives, it unfortunately ended after just three seasons. Fortunately, the latest X-Men ’97 series has stepped in to continue the story from where the previous one left off. This was done nearly 30 years later, and it has received both fan and critical approval.

3 King of the Hill

King of the Hill Debuted In 1997

Mike Judge’s shows, while often delivering humor in a more subdued manner, effectively use this style to great advantage, as demonstrated by the popular series, King of the Hill. This sitcom offers a glimpse into the everyday life of an average American family residing in suburban Texas, thereby providing a rich source of humor that resonates with many Americans.

The program continued until around the mid-2000s, but it remained popular due to memes and online clip sharing platforms. Additionally, a reboot series is planned for 2025, which promises to revitalize the original with fresh energy.

2 South Park

South Park Debuted In 1997

South Park is a long-standing project by creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, being their earliest venture. At times, it appeared as though the show’s purpose was to provoke controversy, but over time, it evolved into one of the top-tier satirical animated series available today.

Despite its clever yet crude nature, the show continues to captivate audiences due to its undeniable entertainment value. Its audacity takes a backseat to this, and it’s downright shocking at times. For example, the movie “South Park: Bigger, Louder, and Uncut” was a musical that garnered several awards and even earned an Oscar nomination for its original songs.

1 Spongebob Squarepants

Spongebob Squarepants Debuted In 1999

Certainly, it’s important to note that not all ’90s animated shows were intended primarily for adult audiences. SpongeBob SquarePants, however, stood out as a children’s cartoon that parents felt comfortable leaving their kids to watch for extended periods. Interestingly enough, this show eventually resonated so deeply with the millennial generation that it seemed to define their overall persona.

1. The series is full of memorable lines, leaving an indelible mark on those who watched it as kids. With numerous video games, films, and even a balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, it’s clear that our beloved jellyfish has a bright future ahead.

2024-08-04 09:33