Recently, Best Animated TV Shows for Adults have become more sophisticated in terms of targeting not only children but also adult viewers. A notable example is “Rick and Morty”, an adult-targeting animated series created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon that is both darkly comic and intellectually stimulating. “Rick and Morty” is beloved animated series known for its comic wit, intricate sci-fi plotlines and existential humor.
Exploring complex themes while remaining lighthearted at times. “BoJack Horseman,” another standout television series, takes viewers into the life of an ageing, horse actor navigating Hollywood. “Archer,” with its exploration of mental health issues and addiction as well as fame’s consequences, stands out as an impressively mature and thought-provoking animated series for adults.
Additionally, its blend of comedy with spy action gives the series an entertaining mix of wit and espionage action – making this show perfect for adult viewers! These adult animated TV shows demonstrate animation’s capacity for handling complex topics with humor, creativity, and sophistication that resonates with grownup audiences.
How to Choose the Best Animated TV Shows for Adults
Selecting the ideal animated television shows for adults requires considering many different aspects, including personal preferences, storytelling styles and thematic elements. Here are a few helpful hints:
Genre Preferences: Think carefully about your genre preferences. Whether they include science-fiction, fantasy, comedy and drama or combinations thereof – animated shows offer something suitable to every taste and preference.
Humor Style: Different animated shows feature various comedic styles that may appeal to you, from slapstick comedy to satire, dark humor or clever wordplay. Make a selection based on which kind of humor resonates most with you.
Artistic Style: Animation shows can range widely in terms of their artistic styles, from hand-drawn animation to computer generated graphics. Experiment with various animation styles until one catches your eye as an aesthetic preference.
Complexity of Storytelling: Some animated shows feature intricate plot arcs and character development for an in-depth viewing experience, while others may offer episodic formats with standalone stories. Decide which shows fit your preferences for storytelling complexity.
Themes and Subject Matter: Take into consideration the themes and subject matters explored in each show before choosing it as entertainment. From social commentary, existential questions, or imaginative adventures; find a show that speaks to your interests!
Critical Acclaim: Look for shows with positive reviews and critical acclaim from both audiences and critics, which will provide insight into its quality and reception.
Creator Portfolios: If you were impressed with previous works by an individual creator or creative team, exploring more of their productions may be beneficial. Each creator typically has a distinct style and thematic focus which they carry through to each of their productions.
Viewer Ratings: Check viewer ratings on platforms such as IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic to assess overall appeal of shows. While individual preferences may differ, high ratings can provide insight into an ensemble appeal of shows.
Cultural Relevance: Some animated shows explore contemporary issues or provide social commentary, so if this type of media piques your interest, look for ones that reflect it in real-world scenarios.
Trial Episodes: For an immersive viewing experience, view one or two trial episodes or trailers of any given show to get a sense of its tone and style. Many streaming platforms offer this option with pilot episodes or short previews available as pilot episodes or short previews.
Remember to put yourself and your own tastes first when selecting animated TV shows for adults. Explore different programs until you find one that speaks to you the most.
Here Is List Of Best Animated TV Shows for Adults
- ‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’
- ‘The Midnight Gospel’
- ‘American Dad’
- ‘King of the Hill’
- ‘Disenchantment‘
- ‘Daria’
- ‘Metalocalypse’
- ‘Love, Death & Robots
- ‘Bob’s Burgers’
- ‘Archer’
- ‘Cowboy Bebop’
- ‘Rick and Morty’
- ‘Beavis and Butt-Head’
- ‘Samurai Jack’
- ‘Arcane’
- ‘Futurama’
- ‘Family Guy’
- ‘BoJack Horseman’
- ‘South Park’
- ‘The Simpsons’
20 Best Animated TV Shows for Adults
1. ‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’
“Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” stands out as one of the finest animated shows for adults, seamlessly merging the gritty aesthetic of cyberpunk with an intriguing narrative. Studio Trigger in collaboration with CD Projekt, creators of the award-winning Cyberpunk 2077 video game, brings viewers into an alternate dystopian future featuring neon-lit cityscapes, cutting edge technology, and an intriguing cast of characters.
“Edgerunners” is an irresistibly thrilling cyberpunk tale that tackles complex themes of social inequality, corporate control and technological advancement – as well as their human cost. Combining mature storytelling with dynamic animation and futuristic atmosphere provides a captivating experience to adult audiences looking for thought-provoking animated television.
2. ‘The Midnight Gospel’ (Best Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“The Midnight Gospel” stands out in terms of animated TV shows geared toward adults, offering an exceptional and thought-provoking viewing experience. Created by Duncan Trussell and Pendleton Ward, this series blends animated storytelling with thought-provoking podcast discussions for an unmissable experience. Each episode follows Clancy, a spacecaster using a multiverse simulator to travel across universes and interview inhabitants about deep and profound topics.
The combination of colorful animation and serious philosophical discussions creates a captivating blend that engages both intellect and emotions of mature audiences. “The Midnight Gospel” deftly explores themes such as life, death, consciousness and spirituality to deliver an engaging animated adventure for adults that transcends traditional animation storytelling boundaries.
3. ‘American Dad’ (Best Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“American Dad” stands as one of the top animated shows for adults, providing a hilarious and irreverent take on American suburban life. Created by Seth MacFarlane, Mike Barker and Matt Weitzman, the series follows Stan Smith, an eccentric but patriot CIA agent, and his eccentric family through their adventures.
“American Dad” is well-known for its sharp social and political commentary, often using humor to highlight contemporary issues ranging from politics and relationships to pop culture with an often subtle yet subversive touch.
“American Dad’s” wide variety of characters – such as Roger the alien and Klaus, the talking fish – contributes to its comedic charm and offers a wide variety of comedy styles. A perfect balance of absurdity, satire and heartfelt moments keeps adult audiences coming back for more of this animated entertainment show that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
4. ‘King of the Hill’
“King of the Hill” stands out among animated shows aimed at adults due to its subtle depiction of suburban life and unique mix of humor and heart. Mike Judge and Greg Daniels created this series that follows the lives of Hank Hill’s family living in Arlen, Texas, with Hank serving as its centerpiece character. “King of the Hill” stands out from animated sitcoms by taking an approachable and realistic tack, making it accessible and relatable for adult viewers.
“King of the Hill” expertly explores social and cultural issues with sophistication, touching upon family dynamics, friendship dynamics and contemporary society’s challenges. Through its humorous storytelling and endearing characters, this timeless animated classic resonates with adults seeking both laughs and genuine insights into everyday life complexities.
5. ‘Disenchantment’
“Disenchantment” stands out among the best animated television shows for adults due to its irreverent humor, clever writing style and unique fantasy setting. Matt Groening, creator of “The Simpsons” and “Futurama”, developed this animated series starring Princess Bean of Dreamland, Elfo the Elf and Luci their demon friend. “Disenchantment” seamlessly merges medieval fantasy and contemporary satire, exploring themes of self-discovery, friendship and the effects of social expectations.
“Disenchantment’s” character-driven humor, combined with its sharp social commentary, appeals to adult audiences looking for an exciting take on traditional fantasy tropes. As its story progresses, “Disenchantment” manages to combine laughs with moments of genuine emotion that make this animated series captivating and well-rounded enough for even discerning adult viewers.
6. ‘Daria’ (Top Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“Daria” stands out as an outstanding animated series for adults, beloved for its trademark sharp humor, incisive social commentary, and Daria herself being unabashedly nonconformist. Glenn Eichler and Susie Lewis Lynn’s animated series is a spin-off from MTV’s hit comedy “Beavis and Butt-Head.” Daria Morgendorffer is an intelligent yet witty high school student navigating her adolescence in Lawndale.
This show expertly mocks teenage culture, social expectations and the inherent absurdities of high school life. Daria’s unique blend of humor and defiance of social norms continues to resonate with adult audiences as she tackles universal themes like self-discovery, identity formation and the pursuit of authenticity. Her sharp writing and engaging cast remain timeless classics – perfect for adults seeking an intelligent yet subversive take on the trials associated with growing up!
7. ‘Metalocalypse’ (Top Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“Metalocalypse” stands out among animated shows for adults as one of the top animated programs with its compelling mix of heavy metal, dark humor, and over-the-top absurdity. Created by Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha, this animated series follows fictional death metal band Dethklok as they live out an extreme lifestyle with global impact.
“Metalocalypse” stands out in adult animated series with its relentless satire of both music industry and metal culture, exaggerated violence and surreal humor – making it standout within this category. Never afraid to push boundaries or break convention,
“Metalocalypse” offers an intriguing blend of comedy and musical intensity in every episode. The series targets an adult audience, providing a satirical commentary on fame, power, and the consequences of unchecked excess all within an animated world based around heavy metal music – something which appeals to fans both of genre as well as unconventional humor.
8. ‘Love, Death & Robots
“Love, Death & Robots” stands as an outstanding anthology series and one of the best-animated TV shows for adults, enthralling audiences with its wide-ranging short stories and stunning animation. Tim Miller and David Fincher created an anthology series which delves into love, death and surreality using various animation styles and narrative genres. From futuristic sci-fi landscapes to gritty noir aesthetics, “Love, Death & Robots” presents an engaging series of tales with profound ramifications for today.
This show’s mature themes, graphic content and complex storytelling caters to an adult audience looking for an entertaining animation experience that offers more complexity and visual depth. “Love, Death & Robots” stands out as an animated story that defies convention and challenges audiences’ assumptions of animated storytelling by exploring human nature, technology, and the unexpected turns of fate.
With its exploration of these topics as well as unforeseen fateful twists of fateful fates that unexpectedly intervene throughout, “Love Death & Robots” makes an unforgettable animated viewing experience that transcends conventional boundaries while pushing them even further.
9. ‘Bob’s Burgers’ (Best Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“Bob’s Burgers” stands out as one of the premier animated shows for adults, offering an engaging blend of quirky humor, heartfelt storytelling and endearing characters. Loren Bouchard and Jim Dauterive created the series which follows Bob, Linda and their three eccentric children as they manage their struggling burger restaurant. The show’s charm lies in its relatable family dynamics, amusing wordplay, and genuine affection between characters.
“Bob’s Burgers” takes an amusing, lighthearted approach to everyday challenges with its depictions of small business owner struggles and family life’s idiosyncrasies. Through witty dialogue, memorable musical interludes, and its cast of adorable misfits, “Bob’s Burgers” has become an animated series that resonates with adults searching for both humor and heart in their animated entertainment.
10. ‘Archer’
“Archer” stands out among animated shows designed for adults due to its signature blend of espionage, humor, and deep character dynamics. Adam Reed created this series which centers around Sterling Archer, an inept yet outgoing agent from ISIS (International Secret Intelligence Service). “Archer” is beloved television show for its amusing dialogue, pop culture references and innovative animation. With an irreverent approach to spying and its inherent dangers, “Archer” adds humor and irreverence into its genre.
“Archer”‘s mature themes of workplace relationships, identity crises and the negative consequences of living hedonistically are appealing to adult audiences looking for something beyond simple laughs. With its absurd missions and clever banter between characters navigating them successfully through absurd missions “Archer” has earned itself a place as an intelligent yet consistently entertaining animated series for viewers who appreciate smart humor with an element of spying flair.
11. ‘Cowboy Bebop’
“Cowboy Bebop” remains one of the best animated shows for adults, seamlessly merging different genres to craft an engrossing narrative set in a futuristic, intergalactic setting. Shinichiro Watanabe’s series Bebop follows Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine Edward and Ein as they navigate their complicated pasts while searching for criminals on board the spaceship Bebop.
“Cowboy Bebop” transcends traditional anime boundaries with its adult themes, jazz-influenced soundtrack, and film noir-influenced visual style. This show’s exploration of existialism, loneliness, and the consequences of an eventful past add depth to its action-packed storytelling; adult audiences find comfort in its rich character development, complex narratives and the melancholic beauty that pervades every episode, making “Cowboy Bebop” an animated TV classic for viewers with sophisticated tastes.
12. ‘Rick and Morty’ (Best Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“Rick and Morty” stands out in animated television for adults as an exceptional work, known for its groundbreaking combination of dark comedy, intricate sci-fi storytelling, and existential exploration. Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon’s series chronicles the interdimensional adventures of eccentric scientist Rick Sanchez, as he traverses dimensions with his well-meaning grandson Morty Smith who follows in his footsteps.
“Rick and Morty” has quickly become an international cultural phenomenon thanks to its sharp humor, humorous take on pop culture references, and willingness to tackle difficult philosophical topics. This show stands out by seamlessly merging high-concept science fiction with relatable family dynamics, making it especially appealing to adult audiences seeking smart and entertaining animated content. “Rick and Morty” has long been one of the top animated shows for adults, providing audiences with laughs, intellectual stimulation and emotional resonance.
13. ‘Beavis and Butt-Head’ (Top Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“Beavis and Butt-Head” stands out among adult animated shows for its offbeat humor, often controversial themes and irreverence. Mike Judge created this series, chronicling Beavis and Butt-Head as they navigate adolescence with a constant fixation on music videos and juvenile humor. Though initially targeted toward teenagers, this show gained immense popularity with adults due to its mocking critique of contemporary culture and uninhibitedly offensive comedy.
“Beavis and Butt-Head” became an irreverent cultural touchstone, employing its main characters’ antics to poke fun at social norms and everyday idiocy. The animated adult-oriented series made an indelible mark on its genre as an irreverent animated satire with subversive undertones – making it an indispensable work.
14. ‘Samurai Jack’
“Samurai Jack” stands as an animated TV series for adults that transcends its genre with breathtaking animation, innovative storytelling, and philosophical depth. Genndy Tartakovsky created this series, following Samurai Jack on his journey to defeat Aku, an evil shape-shifting wizard, and return home. Its distinctive visual style — which blends traditional animation with cinematic techniques — has won widespread acclaim from audiences around the globe.
“Samurai Jack” stands out by its ability to explore mature themes and complex emotions with minimal dialogue and striking visuals that tell Jack’s journey in depth. The series delves into topics such as honor, perseverance and the consequences of ongoing struggle against powerful adversaries – leaving an imprintful mark in adult animation as it provides viewers with an engaging storytelling experience that visually resonates emotionally as well as visually stunning storytelling experiences.
15. ‘Arcane’
“Arcane” has quickly emerged as a premier animated series for adults, winning audiences over with its stunning visuals, intricate world building, and captivating storytelling. Riot Games and Fortiche Productions collaborated on this animated series created as a prequel to their popular online game “League of Legends.”
“Arcane” explores the origins of Jinx and Vi within Piltover and Zaun cities – two captivating places. “Arcane” stands out from traditional video game adaptations with its mature themes, depth of character development and narrative that explores morality and power with equal candor.
“Arcane”‘s intricate animation and exploration of social unrest and technological development appeals to an adult audience eager for sophisticated storytelling through animation. Arcane sets a new standard in animated series by appealing both to fans of gaming as well as those seeking an engaging narrative experience.
16. ‘Futurama’ (Top Animated TV Shows for Adults)
Futurama remains one of the top-rated animated shows for adults, celebrated for its inimitable mix of comedy, science fiction, and emotional depth. Matt Groening created this series focusing on Philip J. Fry, a 20th century slacker who is cryogenically frozen and wakes up in 31st century Earth. The show features an ensemble cast that includes a one-eyed mutant, a robot who likes bending things, and an incompetent bureaucrat – each playing an essential part in making its comedic moments brilliantly funny.
“Futurama” has long been revered for its sharp humor and intricate world-building. Furthermore, this sitcom manages to seamlessly integrate deep-hitting messages within its comedic narrative. Futurama has won fans with its clever social commentary, well-developed characters and willingness to explore complex themes – drawing them in with its clever mix of social commentary, character development and heartfelt storytelling – becoming a timeless classic in adult animated television.
17. ‘Family Guy’ (Best Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“Family Guy” has earned its place as one of the best-animated shows for adults, known for its irreverent comedy, satirical takes on pop culture, and commitment to pushing boundaries. Seth MacFarlane created the series which follows the Griffin family –Peter, Lois, Meg, Chris, Stewie, Brian–as they navigate life in Quahog. “Family Guy” stands out with its fast-paced gags and knockoff jokes that parody various topics.
Cultural references, social commentary, and willingness to tackle controversial subjects all add up to make “Family Guy” popular with adult audiences. Family Guy remains an iconic animated series for adult viewers, providing laughs and comment on relevant current issues. Its longevity and cultural impact mark it out as an influential player in this area of animation.
18. ‘BoJack Horseman’
“BoJack Horseman” stands as an unforgettable animated TV show for adults, transcending genre boundaries in its design and quality of animation. Raphael Bob-Waksberg created this series that follows BoJack Horseman through his turbulent life as an abandoned former sitcom star coping with existential depression and addiction.
What sets “BoJack Horseman” apart is its unflinching exploration of mental health, fame and redemption – topics often explored with humor but often too serious or mature for other forms of media. Animated formats allow this show to explore these subtle topics with ease.
“BoJack Horseman,” led by Will Arnett’s stellar voice cast, features an engaging combination of satire, social commentary, and deep examination of human experience. The show stands out among animated television in particular thanks to its clever writing and sharp humor; moreover it resonates deeply with adult audiences making this show one of a kind in this genre.
19. ‘South Park’
“South Park” has long been recognized for its exceptional animated television shows geared toward adults. Acclaimed for its unbridled satire and irreverence as well as social commentary, “South Park” remains an outstanding TV series to this day.
Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s animated comedy follows four boys–Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny–living in Colorado town of the same name. “South Park” is known for its quick turnaround time that allows it to respond timely to current events, politics and popular culture, making its show timely in its commentary of controversial subjects and social taboos.
South Park’s distinct animation style and crude humor, combined with its ability to lampoon a wide range of topics, make it an essential cultural touchstone. South Park continues to push boundaries by providing biting yet often thought-provoking commentary on modern society – earning its status as a pioneering adult animated television series.
20. ‘The Simpsons’ (Best Animated TV Shows for Adults)
“The Simpsons” remains one of the top animated shows for adults, cementing its status as an iconic cultural phenomenon and becoming the longest-running American animated program. Matt Groening created “The Simpsons” series in 1989 and its cast includes Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson in Springfield, a fictional town located in Central America. Famed for its sharp satire, humorous dialogue, memorable characters and signature visual style; “The Simpsons” remains a beloved adult animation classic today.
This show’s ability to cover topics ranging from politics and popular culture with humor has earned it an enormous following among fans, from young children all the way through senior citizens. Over time, “The Simpsons” has become an iconic cultural touchstone, reflecting and shaping society while continuously providing laughs and poignant moments. Its lasting legacy and influence on animated television have cemented its place as an enduring classic for viewers of all ages – proving that animated content can both entertain and intellectually stimulate adults.
Benefits Of Best Animated TV Shows for Adults
Best animated TV shows for adults offer a range of benefits that contribute to their popularity and appeal. Here are some key advantages:
Entertainment and Escapism: Animated shows provide a unique form of entertainment that allows adults to escape from the stresses of daily life. The imaginative worlds, colorful characters, and creative storytelling offer a break from reality.
Diverse Genres and Themes: Animated shows cater to a wide range of genres and themes, providing diversity in storytelling. Whether it’s comedy, drama, science fiction, or fantasy, adults can find animated shows that align with their preferences.
Humor and Satire: Many animated shows are known for their clever humor and satirical take on real-world issues. They often use animation as a tool to exaggerate situations and deliver social commentary in a lighthearted and entertaining manner.
Innovative Storytelling: Animated shows often push the boundaries of storytelling with imaginative plots, unique visual styles, and creative narratives. This can provide a refreshing and innovative viewing experience for adults.
Artistic Expression: Animation allows for diverse artistic styles and expressions. Viewers can appreciate the creativity and craftsmanship involved in the animation process, from hand-drawn animation to cutting-edge computer-generated graphics.
Cultural and Social Commentary: Many animated shows explore relevant cultural and social issues, addressing them in a way that is accessible and engaging. This can lead to increased awareness and thought-provoking discussions among adult viewers.
Nostalgia and Childhood Connections: Some animated shows, particularly those with long runs, may evoke a sense of nostalgia for adults who grew up watching them. Revisiting these shows can provide a sense of connection to one’s childhood.
Emotional Engagement: Well-crafted animated shows often evoke a wide range of emotions. They can be funny, heartwarming, or even thought-provoking, creating a strong emotional connection with the audience.
Accessibility and Convenience: With the availability of streaming platforms, animated shows are easily accessible, allowing adults to watch at their convenience. This accessibility contributes to the popularity of animated content for adult viewers.
Crossover Appeal: Some animated shows are designed to appeal to both adults and children. This crossover appeal allows for shared viewing experiences, making it enjoyable for families or groups with diverse age ranges.
Overall, the benefits of the best-animated TV shows for adults lie in their ability to offer a rich and diverse range of content that entertains, stimulates, and provides a unique form of storytelling that resonates with a mature audience.
Best Animated TV Shows for Adults Conclusion
Conclusion Ultimately, animated television shows for adults have evolved into an expansive and dynamic landscape offering endless forms of entertainment, intellectual stimulation, and emotional resonance. Family Guy” and “Rick and Morty”, to “BoJack Horseman” and “Futurama”, these animated series cater to adult audiences with sophisticated tastes. Benefits of creative writing range from entertainment and innovative storytelling, to exploring complex themes, social commentary and the sheer joy of artistic expression.
As animation continues to break new ground, animated shows for adults have become cultural touchstones that reflect current societal trends and spark dialogue about important issues. Nostalgia, humor or just captivating narratives–animated shows for adults are increasingly becoming an integral part of contemporary television entertainment, showing that animation isn’t solely meant for children but is instead an entertaining form of entertainment that speaks to individuals of all ages.
Best Animated TV Shows for Adults FAQ
Are animated TV shows only for kids?
No, animated TV shows have evolved to cater to diverse audiences, including adults. Many shows explore mature themes, offer sophisticated humor, and provide thought-provoking narratives.
What makes an animated TV show suitable for adults?
Animated shows for adults often feature complex storytelling, mature themes, and humor that may be more nuanced or satirical. They address a range of topics such as relationships, societal issues, and existential questions.
Are there different genres within adult animated TV shows?
Yes, adult animated shows span various genres, including comedy, drama, science fiction, fantasy, and even horror. This diversity allows adults to find shows that align with their specific interests.
Can animated shows for adults be emotionally impactful?
Absolutely. Many adult animated shows, such as “BoJack Horseman” and “The Simpsons,” are known for their emotional depth. They can evoke a wide range of feelings, from laughter to introspection.
How can I find the best-animated TV shows for adults?
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video offer a wide selection of adult animated content. Researching reviews, considering personal preferences, and exploring creators’ portfolios can help you discover shows that suit your tastes.
Are there animated shows that cater to both adults and children?
Yes, some animated shows have crossover appeal, designed to entertain both adults and children. However, the level of sophistication and humor may vary to accommodate a broader audience.