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Cartoon Cartoons
Cartoon Cartoons
from Wikipedia

The Cartoon Cartoons logo, used for the Latin American version of Cartoon Cartoon Fridays between 2000 and 2006.

Cartoon Cartoons is a collective name used by Cartoon Network for their original animated television series from July 14, 1997, to June 14, 2004, and produced primarily by Hanna-Barbera and later Cartoon Network Studios. The first Cartoon Cartoon, Dexter's Laboratory, premiered in 1996, a year before the moniker's introduction. Further original series followed: Johnny Bravo, Cow and Chicken, I Am Weasel, The Powerpuff Girls, Ed, Edd n Eddy, Mike, Lu & Og, Courage the Cowardly Dog, Sheep in the Big City, Time Squad, Grim & Evil, Whatever Happened to... Robot Jones?, Codename: Kids Next Door, The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, and Evil Con Carne.

Originally, Cartoon Network mainly focused its programming on reruns of older animated series which it had acquired through its parent company's film library, but soon began to introduce more original programming. The Cartoon Cartoons originated with Fred Seibert's animation anthology series What a Cartoon! (1995), an animation showcase series featuring pilots of original cartoon ideas submitted by independent animators. Dexter's Laboratory was the first such pilot to be greenlit by the network for a full series in 1996. After other pilots were successfully produced into their own series, including Cow and Chicken, Johnny Bravo, and The Powerpuff Girls, the collective Cartoon Cartoons were featured on the network's Friday night programming block, Cartoon Cartoon Fridays from 1999 to 2003. Not all CN original series created around this time were officially recognized as Cartoon Cartoons; Samurai Jack, for example, did not bear the moniker.

The moniker was retired by the network in 2004, and its last surviving series, Ed, Edd n Eddy, ended in 2009 after a ten-year run. Since their heyday, reruns of the Cartoon Cartoons continued to air on The Cartoon Cartoon Show (2005–2008) and Cartoon Planet (2012–2014). In 2021, the name was resurrected by the network for a new shorts program.

History

[edit]

Cartoon Cartoons first appeared as shorts on animation showcase series What a Cartoon! in 1995, under the name of World Premiere Toons. The series was produced by Hanna-Barbera and Cartoon Network Studios under the direction of Fred Seibert. Seibert had been a guiding force for Nickelodeon (having overseen the creation of Nicktoons shortly prior to his departure) prior to joining Hanna-Barbera and would establish Frederator Studios years later.[1]

Through What a Cartoon!, Cartoon Network was able to assess the potential of certain shorts to serve as pilots for spin-off series and signed contracts with their creators to create ongoing series.[2] Dexter's Laboratory was the most popular short series according to a vote held in 1995, and became a full series in 1996. Dexter was retroactively labeled the first Cartoon Cartoon in 1997; however, the network's previous original shows, The Moxy Show and Space Ghost Coast to Coast, were not retroactively given the label.

The Cartoon Cartoon brand was first introduced in July 1997 for the network's Cartoon Cartoon Weekend block. Two more series based on shorts debuted in 1997: Johnny Bravo and Cow and Chicken. I Am Weasel, which aired as segments on Cow and Chicken, was spun off into its own series in 1999. These were followed by The Powerpuff Girls in late 1998 and Ed, Edd n Eddy in early 1999.[2][1] Mike, Lu & Og and Courage the Cowardly Dog premiered in November 1999, creating a lineup of critically acclaimed shows.[3][4] From 1999 to 2003, the Cartoon Cartoon Fridays block was the network's marquee night for premieres of new episodes and series.

In 2001, the network received Time Squad and Grim & Evil. In 2002, Codename: Kids Next Door became a full series after being chosen in the previous year's Big Pick Weekend. In 2003, Grim & Evil was split into The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy and Evil Con Carne; they were the last original series to officially carry the Cartoon Cartoon branding before it was discontinued.

The Cartoon Cartoons were intended to appeal to a wider audience than the average Saturday-morning cartoon. Linda Simensky, vice president of original animation, reminded adults and teenage girls that the cartoons could appeal to them as well. Kevin Sandler's article on them claimed that these cartoons were both less "bawdy" than their counterparts at Comedy Central and less "socially responsible" than their counterparts at Nickelodeon. Sandler pointed to the whimsical rebelliousness, high rate of exaggeration and self-consciousness of the overall output which each individual series managed.[5]

In October 2003, the live-action Fridays premiered on the network as a replacement for Cartoon Cartoon Fridays. The Cartoon Cartoons bumpers (that appeared before and after episodes of its original series) were dropped after the network's CN City rebrand on June 14, 2004. In November 2004, the block Cartoon Cartoons: The Top 5 was renamed to simply The Top 5. Cartoon Network still kept the Cartoon Cartoons name around in various forms applying to their older series (such as for The Cartoon Cartoon Show from 2005 to 2008), but since newer shows such as Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Camp Lazlo, and Ben 10 were stylistically different from previous shows, the moniker was not applied to them.

In Asia and Latin America, the moniker continued to be used until the end of 2007 with series like Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, Camp Lazlo, and My Gym Partner's a Monkey.

Revival

[edit]
Cartoon Cartoons
Created byCartoon Network Studios
Country of originUnited States
Original languageEnglish
Production
Executive producers
ProducerScott Malchus
Related

On April 15, 2021, Cartoon Network announced a new iteration of the Cartoon Cartoons shorts program.[6][7] On November 24, 2021, the first new Cartoon Cartoons shorts were announced.[8] The first nine shorts include Accordions Geoffrey & Mary Melodica by Louie Zong (of The Ghost and Molly McGee and We Bare Bears), Dang! It's Dracula by Levon Jihanian (of Tig n' Seek), Hungy Ghost by Jesse Moynihan (of Adventure Time), Fruit Stand at the End of the World by Rachel Liu, Off the Menu by Shavonne Cherry (of Ren & Stimpy and The Looney Tunes Show), Harmony in Despair by Andrew Dickman (of Looney Tunes Cartoons), Unravel by Alexis Sugden, Mouthwash Madness by Lisa Vandenberg (of Animaniacs), and Scaredy Cat by JJ Villard (of King Star King).[9]

On June 7, 2022, more Cartoon Cartoons were announced.[10] The next seven shorts include The All-Nimal by Nick Edwards (of Apple & Onion and The Fungies!), Buttons' Gamezone by Fernando Puig (of The Cuphead Show!, Middlemost Post and Tig n' Seek), Tib Tub, We Need You by Sean Godsey and Mike Rosenthal, I Love You Jocelyn by Tracey Laguerre, Pig in a Wig by Sam Marin (of Regular Show), The Good Boy Report (based on the webcomic of the same name) by Kasey Williams (of Niko and the Sword of Light and Harley Quinn) and Maude Macher and Dom Duck by Kali Fontecchio (of The Looney Tunes Show and Jellystone!).

On March 21, 2024, GiAnna Ligammari (of Niko and the Sword of Light and Inside Job) announced a Cartoon Cartoons short ISCREAM created by her.[11] Four days after, the short was announced as being completed.[12] Violane Briat (of Craig of the Creek and The Loud House) would also announce a Cartoon Cartoons short, Madison and Skylar created by her.[13] The shorts were showcased in a screening on April 25, 2024.[14][15] The short The All-Nimal was shown at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 11, 2024.[16] A panel for the shorts was also hosted at San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2025.[17]

Seven more unannounced shorts, Stinkalina by Eva Konstantopoulos and Jon Burgerman, Sleeping Giants by Maha Tabikh (of Apple and Onion and Pinky Malinky), A For Angel by Chime Merra, Mandie Mander by Nick Bachman (of Sanjay and Craig and Yo Gabba Gabba!), Foools by Seo Kim (of Adventure Time) and Steve Manale (of Summer Camp Island), The Journey to Donut Palace by Somvilay Xayaphone (of Adventure Time and Summer Camp Island) and Duck by Mic Graves (of The Amazing World of Gumball and Elliott from Earth) and Tony Hull (of Elliott from Earth) were also revealed, with footage of the latter four being posted online.

These Cartoon Cartoons shorts were never aired on Cartoon Network, and initially, the studio had no plans to release them after production of new shorts ceased in 2024.[18] However, Warner Bros. Television's YouTube channel began to release the shorts every Monday, starting with A For Angel on January 26, 2026.[19] Warner Bros. TV's YouTube channel also used the Cartoon Cartoons label to release shorts previously unreleased from Cartoon Network Shorts Department.

List of shorts (so far)

[edit]
Title Created by Original premiere(s) Running time
The All-Nimal Nick Edwards June 11, 2024
(Annecy)
A For Angel Chime Merra January 26, 2026
(Online)
7 minutes
Accordions Geoffrey & Mary Melodica[a] Louie Zong February 2, 2026
(Online)
2 minutes
Afternoon Super[b] Ben Crouse and Jacob Sluka February 9, 2026
(Online)
10 minutes
Bird & Squirrel[b] James Burks February 18, 2021 (CFF Seattle)[20]
February 16, 2026 (Online)
8 minutes

Promotions

[edit]

In June 1999, Cartoon Network began promoting its Cartoon Cartoons lineup with an advertising campaign to draw in viewership for its new Friday-night block Cartoon Cartoon Fridays, which was targeted toward viewers aged 6 to 11. Marketing included brand partnerships with General Mills, Hasbro, and Pepperidge Farm as well as an on-air sweepstakes and an 11-market live touring event. Advertisements appeared on television, radio, online, in movie theaters, at Six Flags theme parks, and billboards among other media with the tagline "You with us?".[21]

In mid-2000, Cartoon Network promoted its original programming by launching the Cartoon Cartoon Friday Tour 2000, a live event that ran for 10 weeks across 13 cities. Active during weekdays in the lead-up to its Friday-night block, the tour cost a reported $25 million and reached a collective audience 16.2 million. It was sponsored by Coca-Cola's Hi-C and was created in partnership with Adelphia, AT&T, Cablevision, Charter Broadcasting, Comcast, Cox Cable, MediaOne, and Time Warner Cable.[22] Launched as part of a three-part Cartoon Network marketing campaign occurring at different parts of the year, Cartoon Cartoon Friday Tour 2000 ended on September 1, 2000.[23]

In March 2000, Cartoon Network ran an advertisement on other networks, including rival channel Nickelodeon, featuring different Cartoon Cartoons characters persuading viewers to switch channels and watch Cartoon Cartoon Fridays. The advertisement is set against an orange backdrop, Nickelodeon's signature color. Time Warner City Cable withdrew the commercial from local broadcast stations in New York due to its perceived inappropriateness for children.[24]

Programming blocks

[edit]

More shows premiered bearing the Cartoon Cartoons brand, airing throughout the network's schedule and prominently on Cartoon Cartoon Fridays, which became the marquee night for premieres of new episodes and shows beginning June 11, 1999. It initially aired from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM (Eastern Time) on Friday nights.[25] The block was expanded from three and a half hours to four hours with the November 1999 premieres of Mike, Lu & Og and Courage the Cowardly Dog.[4]

On June 9, 2000, Cartoon Cartoon Fridays launched with a new lineup and quickly garnered increased ratings for the channel.[26] The block's format featured a different character from a Cartoon Cartoon series hosting each week, with the first host being Eustace from Courage the Cowardly Dog. The June 9 broadcast also began the first week of The Big Pick, a showcase of cartoon pilots that could become full series based on the results of an online viewer poll. A similar event, The Big Pick II, aired the following year.

On October 3, 2003, following a months-long switch to Summer Fridays and Fridays, the block was rebooted under a hybrid live-action format as Fridays, hosted by Tommy Snider and Nzinga Blake, the latter of whom was later replaced by Tara Sands. It aired shows outside the Cartoon Cartoon moniker, such as Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, The Life and Times of Juniper Lee, Camp Lazlo, My Gym Partner's a Monkey, Squirrel Boy, and Class of 3000. The last airing of Fridays was on February 23, 2007.

Cartoon Cartoons: The Top 5 (simply retitled The Top 5 in 2004), an hour-long program featuring a countdown of the week's five "best" Cartoon Cartoon episodes from the network's lineup, ran from 2002 to 2008. From 2005 to 2008, the Cartoon Cartoons label was primarily used for The Cartoon Cartoon Show, a half-hour program featuring episodes of older Cartoon Cartoons that were no longer shown regularly on the network.

The block Cartoon Planet was revived on Cartoon Network from 2012 to 2014, airing in a format similar to The Cartoon Cartoon Show. It featured Cartoon Cartoons such as Dexter's Laboratory, Johnny Bravo, Cow and Chicken, I Am Weasel, The Powerpuff Girls, Courage the Cowardly Dog, Ed, Edd n Eddy, Codename: Kids Next Door, The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, and other original Cartoon Network Studios series such as Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Camp Lazlo, and Chowder.

Title Year(s) aired Note(s)
Cartoon Cartoons 1997–2004
Cartoon Cartoon Weekend 1997–2002
Cartoon Cartoon Fridays 1999–2003
Cartoon Cartoon of the Day 1999–2000
The Saturday Morning Block 1999–2000
Cartoon Cartoon Summer 1999–2001
The Cartoon Cartoon Show 2000[27]–03;[28] 2005–08[29]
The Big Pick 2000–01
Cartoon Cartoon Weeknights 2000
Cartoon Cartoon Primetime 2001
The Premiere Premiere Show 2001–02
Cartoon Cartoon Weekend Summerfest 2002
Cartoon Cartoons: The Top 5 2002[30]–08
Cartoon Cartoons in the Morning 2002–03
Cartoon Cartoons in the Afternoon 2002

List of series

[edit]

Precursor

[edit]
Title Premiere date Finale date(s) Note(s)
What a Cartoon! / The What a Cartoon! Show / The Cartoon Cartoon Show February 20, 1995 November 28, 1997 (as main show)
November 29, 2002 (as collective series)
[c][d]

Full series

[edit]
Title Premiere date Finale date Note(s)
Dexter's Laboratory April 28, 1996 November 20, 2003 [e][f][d]
Johnny Bravo July 14, 1997 August 27, 2004 [e][f][d]
Cow and Chicken July 15, 1997 July 24, 1999 [e][f][d]
I Am Weasel July 15, 1997[g] 2000[31] [e][f][d]
The Powerpuff Girls (original series) November 18, 1998 March 25, 2005 [e][f][d]
Ed, Edd n Eddy January 4, 1999 November 8, 2009 [e][f][d]
Mike, Lu & Og November 12, 1999 May 27, 2001 [d]
Courage the Cowardly Dog November 12, 1999 November 22, 2002 [e][f][d]
Sheep in the Big City November 17, 2000 April 7, 2002
Time Squad June 8, 2001 November 26, 2003
Grim & Evil August 24, 2001 October 18, 2002
Whatever Happened to... Robot Jones? July 19, 2002 November 14, 2003 [e]
Codename: Kids Next Door December 6, 2002 January 21, 2008 [e][f][d]
The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy+ June 13, 2003 November 9, 2007 [e][f][d]
Evil Con Carne+ July 11, 2003 October 22, 2004 [e][f][d]
  • (+) Indicates that the show originally aired as part of Grim & Evil, and that the 2003-2004 episodes were not produced for the standalone show.

In other media

[edit]

DC Comics ran an anthology comic based on the Cartoon Cartoons; the series ran from March 2001 to October 2004 for a total of 33 issues.

In the OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes episode "Crossover Nexus", the Cartoon Cartoon logo is shown in the bottom of a wall inside the Cartoon Network headquarters; the Cartoon Cartoon jingle theme song is played when Ben Tennyson (Ben 10) shape-shifts into different Cartoon Network characters.

Cartoon Cartoons was also reintroduced as a YouTube channel featuring content from older Cartoon Network shows since August 2024, it took place of the former YouTube channel for the now defunct Boomerang streaming service, that was shut down on September 30.

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Cartoon Cartoons is a brand name used by to designate its lineup of original animated television series, primarily those developed from short films featured in the What a Cartoon! anthology program that debuted in 1995. Initiated under the creative direction of producer , What a Cartoon! (initially titled World Premiere Toons) served as an incubator for new animation talent, commissioning 48 short films with a $10 million budget to revive the spirit of classic cartoons from the golden age of animation. This initiative directly spawned several flagship series under the Cartoon Cartoons umbrella, including by , by , by , by , and Courage the Cowardly Dog by John Dilworth. These shows, characterized by bold humor, innovative storytelling, and diverse animation styles, helped define 's identity during the late 1990s and early 2000s, transitioning the channel from reruns of classic and to a hub for contemporary original content. The Cartoon Cartoons branding extended to dedicated programming blocks, such as Cartoon Cartoon Fridays, which premiered new episodes and became a cornerstone of the network's weekend lineup starting in 1999. Additional series like , , and Codename: Kids Next Door joined the fold, expanding the brand to encompass up to 15 original productions by the early 2000s. The initiative's success influenced the animation industry by prioritizing creator-driven projects and short-form experimentation, though the original brand was phased out around 2004 as evolved its programming strategy. In 2021, revived the Cartoon Cartoons name for a new shorts program aimed at emerging diverse animators, marking its first such dedicated effort in over a decade.

History

Origins and Development

The "What a Cartoon!" pilot program, launched in 1995 by as president of Cartoons, served as the foundational initiative for developing original animated content for . Inspired by the short-form format of classic theatrical cartoons, the program solicited pitches from emerging animators worldwide, receiving over 5,000 submissions to produce 48 seven-minute shorts. These were created at under Seibert's oversight, with a $10 million budget repurposed from a failed series project, emphasizing a reversal of traditional studio processes by prioritizing creators' storyboards over scripted pitches to foster innovative, character-driven comedy. Key figures such as and emerged through this effort, contributing seminal shorts that shaped the future brand. Tartakovsky's "Dexter's Laboratory," a pilot featuring a boy genius and his sister, debuted in the program's first wave, while McCracken's "Meat Fuzzy Lumkins"—the precursor to —highlighted energetic, superheroic girl protagonists in absurd scenarios. Hanna-Barbera founders and provided advisory input, leveraging the studio's legacy to support this talent discovery amid its financial struggles under Turner Broadcasting ownership since 1991. The selection process involved a dedicated greenlighting team reviewing pitches in a collaborative "greenroom" setting, allowing creators to retain rights to unproduced ideas, which encouraged risk-taking and diversity in styles. From 1996 to 1997, the program evolved into a formalized brand strategy known as Cartoon Cartoons, aimed at boosting 's original content production to compete directly with Nickelodeon's lineup, which had popularized creator-led since 1991. This shift involved strategic partnerships between and , with production milestones including the vetting of shorts for full-series potential based on audience testing and network alignment. The initiative prioritized a creator-driven approach with minimal executive oversight, targeting the development of multiple original series to establish as a hub for innovative by the early .

Launch and Early Success

The Cartoon Cartoons brand emerged as Cartoon Network's initiative to develop and promote its original animated series, beginning with key premieres in 1997. "Dexter's Laboratory," which had debuted as the network's first original half-hour series on April 28, 1996, quickly became its highest-rated program. In July 1997, "Cow and Chicken" and "Johnny Bravo" premiered, expanding the lineup and solidifying the brand's focus on creator-driven shorts adapted into full episodes. These early series, produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, helped the network build momentum in original content amid its growing cable distribution. The launch contributed to notable ratings growth during 1997-1998. The addition of "" and "" boosted Cartoon Network's average primetime ratings among kids aged 6-11 by 52%. "" continued to drive viewership as the network's top performer, supporting overall gains in household reach from approximately 50 million in 1997 to 68 million by 2000. This period saw production ramp up under , which handled the early Cartoon Cartoons until its absorption into in 2001 following the merger dynamics of Time Warner. By 1999, the brand encompassed six core series, including "," "," and "." Early success also involved navigating production shifts, such as transitioning from the short-form "What a Cartoon!" pilots to half-hour formats while maintaining creator input alongside network oversight. In 1998, expanded its programming to daily slots, integrating Cartoon Cartoons more prominently into the schedule to capitalize on rising popularity. The brand's role was pivotal in doubling the network's domestic viewership base over the late , establishing it as a leader in kids' animation.

Expansion and Peak

Following the initial successes of the late 1990s, the brand underwent substantial growth from 2001 to 2003, driven by an increased output of original series produced primarily through . This period marked a shift toward more ambitious creator-led projects, exemplified by the premiere of on August 10, 2001, which introduced Genndy Tartakovsky's distinctive minimalist animation style and epic narrative to the lineup. Building on fan engagement from prior initiatives like the 2001 Big Pick Weekend, where viewers voted on pilots, Codename: Kids Next Door debuted as a full series on December 6, 2002, expanding the brand's focus on action-oriented, kid-centric adventures created by Tom Warburton. Viewership metrics during this era reflected the brand's rising prominence, with Cartoon Network achieving across-the-board growth in the 2001-2002 season, including a 24% increase in delivery to tweens aged 9-14 during total day viewing and a 14% rise in prime time. By 2003, the network solidified its position as the top cable destination for kids aged 2-11, ranking third overall among all networks in that demographic for the month of April alone. This surge contributed to broader strategic developments, such as extended seasons for established shows like The Powerpuff Girls and the introduction of up to ten active series by mid-2003, including Ed, Edd n Eddy, Samurai Jack, and the spin-offs from Grim & Evil. Key milestones underscored the brand's cultural and industry impact, including interactive events like the 2002 Cartoon Cartoon Weekend Summerfest, which featured fan-voted marathons to boost engagement. garnered critical acclaim, securing two in 2003 for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation—won by layout artist Dan Krall and Scott Wills—highlighting the creative excellence amid expanding production demands. While creator-driven innovations fueled these successes, the period also saw subtle tensions from escalating production costs, which began influencing for future projects.

Decline and Discontinuation

By the early 2000s, began signaling a shift away from the Cartoon Cartoons branding, which had defined its original animated programming since 1997. In 2003, the network phased out the "Cartoon Cartoon Fridays" block, its flagship showcase for the initiative, as part of broader strategic adjustments. This culminated in the launch of the on June 14, 2004, a major rebranding effort developed with that introduced a unified urban-themed visual identity featuring characters from various shows interacting in a shared . The new emphasized a more diverse programming slate, incorporating increased acquired content such as series and live-action hybrids, which diluted the focus on Cartoon Cartoons originals. Several key series under the Cartoon Cartoons umbrella concluded during this period, marking the gradual wind-down of the brand. The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, a staple of the lineup, aired its final episode on November 9, 2007, after six seasons. Similarly, , often regarded as one of the last productions tied to the initiative, ran from 2005 to 2008. Reruns of acquired titles like were also phased out as the network prioritized newer formats. While the brand was no longer applied to new content after mid-2004, legacy episodes continued in dedicated blocks such as The Cartoon Cartoon Show until 2008, with some reruns persisting into 2009 alongside the end of long-running holdover . Contributing to the phase-out were rising production costs for , intensifying competition from rivals like —which dominated kids' ratings in the mid-2000s with hits blending animation and live-action—and internal executive shifts. In 2004, Michael Ouweleen was promoted to senior vice president of development and creative direction, reflecting efforts to evolve the network's creative direction amid these pressures. The CN City rebrand aimed to broaden appeal but ultimately accelerated the retreat from the Cartoon Cartoons model by 2009. The discontinuation had notable impacts on creators associated with the brand. Many key talents transitioned to other opportunities; for instance, , architect of and , departed in 2005 to become creative president of Orphanage Animation Studios, focusing on 3D projects. This exodus underscored the brand's fading prominence as the network pivoted toward diversified content strategies.

Revivals and Modern Iterations

Following the discontinuation of the Cartoon Cartoons block in 2009, initiated revival efforts through programming blocks and streaming integrations to capitalize on nostalgia for its original animated series. In , the network revived the Cartoon Planet block, which originally aired from 1995 to 1998, as a weekend showcase for classic episodes from the and 2000s Cartoon Cartoons lineup, including and . This iteration premiered on March 30, , and ran sporadically until March 1, 2014, featuring remixed bumpers and interstitials that echoed the original block's variety-show style but focused exclusively on post-1990 content without new segments. From 2018 onward, individual Cartoon Cartoons series saw renewed availability and limited new productions via HBO Max (later rebranded as Max), particularly through streaming of original episodes and select anniversary content. The Powerpuff Girls reboot, which premiered in 2016 and ran until 2019, became a key streaming offering on the platform, blending classic animation styles with modern storylines. Similarly, Ed, Edd n Eddy episodes were highlighted in holiday-themed programming on HBO Max, including marathons featuring uncut originals and behind-the-scenes features. These efforts marked a shift toward on-demand access rather than linear blocks, aligning with the rise of streaming services. A significant milestone in the brand's revival occurred in 2025, when Cartoon Network Studios held the "Cartoon Cartoons Animated Shorts Showcase" panel at San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2025. The event, in the Indigo Ballroom of the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, featured artists premiering all-new animated shorts and reflecting on their part in the brand's legendary creative legacy. These revivals integrated deeply with the Max streaming service following Warner Bros. Discovery's 2022 merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc., which consolidated Cartoon Network's library under a unified platform. By 2025, Max reported substantial growth in streaming hours for nostalgic animated content, with Warner Bros. Discovery noting a monthly viewership increase driven by family-oriented programming like Cartoon Cartoons classics. This uptick reflected broader trends in subscriber gains, as Max reached over 122 million global users as of May 2025. As of November 2025, the showcased shorts have been made available on Max, contributing to ongoing nostalgia-driven viewership, though no full series pickups have been announced. Despite these advancements, revival attempts faced notable challenges, including fan backlash against perceived deviations from original tones. For instance, a proposed live-action series, developed by in 2021 with a pilot featuring adult versions of the characters, was canceled amid widespread criticism for its "woke" script and tonal shifts, such as emphasizing gender norms and social issues over whimsical action. Subsequent iterations, including the 2025 shorts, have navigated these concerns by prioritizing diverse representation in character designs and stories while honoring classic humor, though debates persist on balancing innovation with fidelity.

Branding and Promotions

Visual Identity and Bumpers

The visual identity of the Cartoon Cartoons brand was established in with the introduction of a stylized "CC" emblem set against a swirly background, featuring explosive where a character pops out from the "O" in "" before the bursts into the words "Cartoon Cartoons" in yellow/orange font with a blue outline. This design emphasized the brand's energetic, playful tone, drawing from the original shorts in the What a Cartoon! showcase. The was updated in to incorporate 3D effects, enhancing its dynamic presentation during block intros and promos. Bumpers for the block were typically 15-second transitions that highlighted characters from featured series, produced by Cartoon Network's in-house animation team to maintain a cohesive feel. Examples include sequences with Dexter from involving lab explosion gags and the in high-speed flying chases, which served as quick interstitials between episodes to build excitement and reinforce the lineup's original content. These bumpers often incorporated the core logo and theme music, creating seamless on-air flow. The original 1997 jingle, composed by Stephen Mank of Primal Screen, was a fast-paced, upbeat track that became synonymous with the brand. It appeared in multiple variations tailored to different block segments, such as intros, outros, and commercial breaks, helping to unify the programming identity. By 2004, the bumpers evolved toward a minimalist style amid Cartoon Network's broader CN City rebrand, which introduced CGI cityscapes where characters interacted in a 3D environment produced by ; final variants appeared before the block's phase-out. All original bumpers were produced in the standard 4:3 to match the era's broadcast format, with HD upgrades applied to reruns starting in 2007 as part of the network's shift to high-definition .

Marketing Campaigns and Contests

Cartoon Network launched several marketing campaigns and contests to promote the brand and foster audience engagement during its peak years. The Big Pick contests, held annually from 2001 to 2003, were fan-voted marathons that highlighted popular series through extended programming blocks. Viewers could cast votes via phone or online for their favorite shows, culminating in announcements of top picks. These contests not only boosted viewership during the weekends but also emphasized the interactive nature of the brand, encouraging repeat engagement. Cross-media promotions extended the Cartoon Cartoons reach beyond television through strategic partnerships with fast-food chains. These collaborations featured toys based on series characters, distributed in meal bundles to capitalize on family dining occasions. The initiatives drove significant merchandise sales by tying collectible items to the shows' characters and storylines. An advertising blitz further amplified visibility with targeted TV spots and print ads. Commercials aired across cable networks, often featuring crossover elements with other kids' programming to highlight the "creator-owned" appeal of the original series. Print campaigns appeared in popular children's magazines, using vibrant illustrations to showcase the diverse animation styles and encourage subscriptions or tune-ins. These efforts positioned Cartoon Cartoons as a fresh alternative in the animated landscape. International campaigns adapted the brand for global markets, with localized promotions in starting around 2000. Dubbed versions of key series were promoted through regional TV spots and events, incorporating cultural nuances to enhance accessibility. This approach increased international awareness, particularly in the UK and , where dubbed episodes of and gained traction.

2021 Revival

In 2021, Cartoon Network Studios revived the Cartoon Cartoons brand name for a new animated shorts program aimed at emerging diverse animators. The initiative reused the established branding to evoke the original incubator spirit, with shorts distributed on Cartoon Network and HBO Max. No major updates to the visual identity were introduced, focusing instead on creator-driven content.

Programming and Distribution

Domestic Blocks

The Cartoon Cartoons programming block debuted on in the United States on July 14, 1997, initially airing Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. ET for one hour, showcasing 2-3 episodes of original animated shorts and early series such as , , and . This weekend slot served as the primary showcase for the brand's emerging original content, drawing from the What a Cartoon! incubator project and helping to establish 's shift toward in-house animation production. The block's launch coincided with a 52% increase in primetime ratings among kids 6-11, reflecting the immediate appeal of these fresh, creator-driven series to young audiences. By 2001, Cartoon Cartoons had expanded beyond weekends into daily programming across the schedule, with episodes integrated into and afternoon slots to build viewer habit. A key development was the introduction of "Cartoon Cartoon Fridays" in June 1999, which evolved into a dedicated 7:00-11:00 p.m. ET block from 2002 to 2004, focusing on new episode premieres and hosted segments featuring characters from the lineup. This Friday night marquee event highlighted series like (premiering November 18, 1998, at 8:00 p.m. ET) and (November 17, 2000), often including countdowns or themed lineups to boost engagement. By 2003, the overall weekly runtime for Cartoon Cartoons content averaged 14 hours, supporting network growth of 14% in kids 6-11 ratings during the 2001-02 season. Special events enhanced the block's visibility, including holiday marathons that featured crossovers among Cartoon Cartoons series. These events often tied into broader network promotions, such as themed bumpers and contests, to reinforce the brand's playful identity. Following the peak in 2004, when new production under the Cartoon Cartoons banner tapered off, reruns shifted to legacy slots within the "CN Classics" programming, airing select episodes in morning and afternoon blocks until 2009. Episodes were broadcast on the newly launched HD channel starting October 15, 2007, preserving the visual style of originals like for modern viewers. This effort supported ongoing reruns amid the network's transition to newer formats. Nielsen data from 1998 indicated up to 61% growth in kids 6-11 delivery in specific weeks for , underscoring strong performance during the brand's core years.

International Adaptations

The Cartoon Cartoons block expanded to in 1998 with the launch of UK, where series like received British dubs to appeal to local audiences. Fox Kids aired dubbed versions of core series such as and in multiple languages including French, German, and Dutch from 2000 to 2004 to facilitate broader accessibility across the continent. In Asian markets, the block debuted on Cartoon Network Asia in 1999, with Mandarin dubs produced for popular shows like The Powerpuff Girls to cater to Chinese-speaking viewers in Taiwan and mainland China. A Japanese-dubbed version of Samurai Jack aired in 2002, with local voice acting to resonate with audiences in Japan while maintaining the original's action-oriented narrative. These adaptations helped the block achieve strong ratings in the region, blending American originals with cultural nuances. Latin America saw the introduction of the Toonami LA block in 2000 on , which integrated Spanish-dubbed Cartoon Cartoons episodes alongside local marathons and promotions to engage Hispanic viewers. By 2003, was a top-rated kids channel in markets like , driven by dubbed versions of and that emphasized humor suited to regional tastes. Cultural adaptations posed challenges for international distribution. Following the original block's discontinuation in 2004, reruns of Cartoon Cartoons continued on International channels until 2015, providing nostalgic programming in dubbed formats across , , and . In 2025, many Cartoon Cartoons series were removed from Max globally.

Series

Precursor Shorts

The "What a Cartoon!" anthology series, originally titled World Premiere Toons, served as the foundational testing ground for Cartoon Network's original animated programming, airing from 1995 to 1997. Produced under the oversight of Cartoons, the program consisted of 48 standalone shorts, each approximately seven minutes in length, designed to emulate the creative freedom of classic theatrical cartoons. These shorts were developed by a diverse group of 16 creators, including emerging talents and industry veterans, who were given substantial artistic autonomy to pitch ideas via storyboards rather than full scripts. The initiative was spearheaded by , then president of Hanna-Barbera, who repurposed a $10 million budget originally earmarked for a single series to fund the entire anthology, allowing for innovative experimentation without the constraints of ongoing episode production. Among the most notable shorts were pilots that directly previewed future hits, such as Craig McCracken's "Meat Fuzzy Lumpkins" (1995), which introduced the superhero trio of battling the hillbilly antagonist Fuzzy Lumpkins; Genndy Tartakovsky's "" (1995), featuring a boy genius and his meddlesome sister in a secret lab; and Van Partible's "" (1995), showcasing the muscle-bound lothario's comedic misadventures with women. Other standout entries included David Feiss's "" (1995) and John R. Dilworth's "The Chicken from Outer Space" (1996), the latter serving as the pilot for . These shorts highlighted a range of styles, from high-energy action to absurd humor, and were produced by creators like , , , , and Hanna-Barbera's founders and Joe Barbera himself. The selection process emphasized creator potential over polished concepts, with over 5,000 storyboard pitches reviewed by a team of development and programming executives at . Successful shorts were chosen based on their ability to demonstrate an animator's unique voice and character-driven storytelling, often prioritizing visual innovation and humor that reflected contemporary life. This approach led to the greenlighting of full series adaptations, with network executives converting pilots into ongoing shows based on audience reception and creative viability; by 2000, at least six major Cartoon Cartoons had emerged directly from the anthology, including , , , (alongside its spin-off ), and . Production was managed by Hanna-Barbera supervisors Buzz Potamkin and Larry Huber, who facilitated a streamlined workflow that inverted traditional television hierarchies by centering animators as the primary storytellers. A key innovation was the early adoption of digital ink-and-paint techniques, which Hanna-Barbera had pioneered since the early 1980s to reduce costs and enhance color consistency compared to hand-cel methods; this efficiency was crucial for delivering the 48 shorts on the allocated budget while maintaining high production values. The process not only revitalized Hanna-Barbera during a transitional period but also proved the commercial viability of creator-led originals, paving the way for Cartoon Network's expansion into full-length series.

Core Original Series

The core original series under the Cartoon Cartoons banner represented Cartoon Network's commitment to original animation, producing 13 full-length shows from 1996 to the late that expanded on short-form pilots and defined the network's creative identity. These series, developed primarily by and Productions, varied in tone from comedy to action-adventure, often featuring budgets that encouraged stylistic innovation. Production highlights included collaborative efforts across shows, such as shared voice talent and thematic crossovers that reinforced the interconnected Cartoon Cartoons universe. (1996–2003, 156 episodes) was created by and premiered on April 28, 1996. The series centers on Dexter, a diminutive boy genius with a hidden underground laboratory filled with high-tech inventions, whose experiments are frequently sabotaged by his boisterous older sister Dee Dee and rival Mandark. Its unique style draws from 1940s rubber-hose , using bold colors, exaggerated expressions, and rapid pacing to deliver fast-paced, inventive humor. The Powerpuff Girls (1998–2005, 78 episodes), created by , debuted on November 18, 1998. This show follows the titular trio—Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup—superpowered kindergarten girls created by Professor Utonium using Chemical X, as they battle villains like Mojo Jojo while navigating school and family life in . The series stands out for its comic-book-inspired visuals, dynamic fight choreography, and blend of cute aesthetics with intense action. Ed, Edd n Eddy (1999–2009, 131 episodes), created by , premiered on January 4, 1999. It depicts the misadventures of three adolescent boys—Ed, Edd (Double D), and Eddy—in a cul-de-sac, where they concoct elaborate scams to scam money from neighborhood kids amid summer boredom. Known for its minimalist animation style, the show employs thick outlines, elastic physics, and a retro suburban vibe reminiscent of 1970s comics, emphasizing character-driven without dialogue-heavy exposition. Courage the Cowardly Dog (1999–2002, 52 episodes), created by John R. Dilworth, first aired on November 12, 1999. The narrative revolves around Courage, a pink, anthropomorphic dog who protects his elderly owners Muriel and Eustace from grotesque, otherworldly monsters on their isolated farm in Nowhere. Its distinctive surreal style combines horror elements with fluid, watercolor-like backgrounds and grotesque character designs, creating a mix of fright and heartfelt moments. Samurai Jack (2001–2004, 52 episodes), also created by Genndy Tartakovsky, launched on August 10, 2001. The story tracks Jack, a masterless samurai hurled into a dystopian future by the demon Aku, as he quests across lands to find a way back in time and defeat the tyrant. Featuring a minimalist animation approach with sweeping panoramic shots, sparse dialogue, and influences from Japanese ukiyo-e art and Western cinema, the series emphasizes epic scope and philosophical themes. Among the other notable core series were (1997–2004, 65 episodes), created by , where a muscle-bound, Elvis-impersonating repeatedly fails at seducing women through over-the-top antics in a of macho stereotypes, styled with vibrant, Looney Tunes-esque exaggeration; (1997–1999, 52 episodes), created by , following the odd-couple siblings—a gentle cow and sarcastic chicken—as they encounter absurd family dilemmas orchestrated by the devilish Red Guy, using crude, sketchy linework for gross-out humor; and (1997–2000, 79 episodes), a spin-off by Feiss centering on a sophisticated and dimwitted rivaling each other in improbable achievements, adopting a similar irreverent, minimally animated format. Additional entries included Grim & Evil (2001, 13 episodes), created by Maxwell Atoms, an anthology pilot series introducing the laid-back Grim Reaper living with human kids Billy and Mandy, and the scheming Hector Con Carne, rendered in a cartoony, Tim Burton-inspired gothic style that spawned spin-offs; Codename: Kids Next Door (2002–2008, 78 episodes), created by Tom Warburton, depicting a secret organization of children using 2x4 technology to combat adult oppression, with high-energy, gadget-filled action and modular character designs; and My Gym Partner's a Monkey (2005–2008, 68 episodes), created by Timothy and Julie McNally Cahill, where human boy Adam Lyon navigates a zoo-based school full of animal classmates, employing anthropomorphic humor and fluid, animalistic movements. Rounding out the lineup were Mike, Lu & Og (1999–2001, 26 episodes), created by Mikhail Aldashin and others, about a girl adapting to island life with inventive siblings, mixing 2D and 3D animation for cultural exploration; and Sheep in the Big City (2000–2002, 26 episodes), created by Mo Willems, tracking a sheep's urban escape from a secret agent farmer, featuring angular, collage-like visuals and wordplay-driven comedy.

Revival and Spin-off Productions

In the , Cartoon Network revived one of its flagship Cartoon Cartoons series with a of , which premiered on April 4, 2016. Produced by , the series reimagined Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup as modern tween superheroes combating villains in while navigating everyday challenges like school and friendships. It ran for three seasons, comprising 119 eleven-minute episodes, and incorporated contemporary themes such as female empowerment, inclusivity, and emotional growth to appeal to a new generation of viewers. The reboot's premiere episode drew significant attention, generating over 81 million cumulative multi-platform impressions across television, digital, and social media in its first week, marking it as Cartoon Network's largest digital launch at the time and leading to a swift renewal for a second season. Subsequent seasons maintained steady streaming performance on platforms like HBO Max, though linear TV ratings declined compared to the original 1998 series, with the show benefiting from broader accessibility via on-demand viewing. The production emphasized vibrant animation updates and guest voice talent, including Amanda Leighton for Blossom, Kristen Li for Bubbles, and Natalie Palamides for Buttercup, while retaining core elements like the girls' Chemical X origins. Following the success of the Powerpuff Girls reboot, Cartoon Network revived the Cartoon Cartoons branding in 2021 as part of a new shorts program designed to foster original animated content, echoing the incubator roots of the original initiative. This effort, overseen by Cartoon Network Studios in collaboration with Warner Bros. Animation, aimed to develop pilot shorts that could spin off into full series, though it primarily focused on fresh concepts rather than direct continuations of classic Cartoon Cartoons titles. By late 2021, several shorts had entered production, signaling a renewed commitment to the block's legacy of innovative storytelling. As of 2025, while additional shorts were completed in 2022, the program has not yet resulted in any full series productions. Powerpuff Girls Z, a Japanese spin-off originally produced in 2006 by , was dubbed into English in 2008 and received international distribution on outside the U.S., premiering in the on July 15, 2008. The 52-episode series reinterpreted as teenage protagonists using magical transformations to fight crime, blending tropes with the original's action-comedy style, and was later made available internationally via streaming to capitalize on nostalgic interest.

Legacy and Impact

Critical and Commercial Reception

The Cartoon Cartoons brand enjoyed strong critical acclaim during its original run from 1997 to 2004, with individual series averaging approximately 78% on based on aggregated season scores. Series such as and received particular praise for their innovative animation and storytelling, contributing to the block's reputation as a cornerstone of Cartoon Network's programming. Commercially, the brand drove significant revenue, with merchandise sales fueled by popular toys and apparel tied to shows like and . Licensing deals capitalized on the block's edgy, character-driven appeal. Awards underscored the creative success of key series, including Primetime Emmy wins for in 2001 for Outstanding Animated Program and multiple Emmys for from 2002 to 2004 in categories such as Outstanding Animated Program and Individual Achievement in Animation. Early reviews highlighted the brand's bold innovation, though some criticized its edginess; for instance, Cow and Chicken drew mixed responses for its gross-out humor and subversive elements, which were seen as pushing boundaries for children's television while occasionally alienating audiences with crude jokes. A 2012 Variety article described the era as Cartoon Network's "golden age," crediting Cartoon Cartoons for elevating the network's profile through fresh, creator-driven content that balanced humor and artistry. Revivals in recent years have received more tempered responses. Overall, the brand was a major factor in 's original content successes before , establishing a benchmark for animated programming success through its blend of commercial viability and critical innovation.

Cultural Influence

The programming block pioneered a creator-driven approach to television animation by incubating independent shorts into full series, fostering innovation and originality in the medium during the late and early . This model emphasized artistic vision over conventional studio formulas, setting a precedent for subsequent developments within . It directly influenced the network's expansion into the block, launched in as a late-night extension that repurposed and built upon the experimental spirit of earlier original animations for adult audiences. Shows like , which debuted on in 2013, extended this legacy by blending sci-fi absurdity with creator-led storytelling, impacting broader pop culture trends in narratives and adult-oriented cartoons. Elements from Cartoon Cartoons permeated internet culture, particularly through memes originating from series like Courage the Cowardly Dog, where recurring phrases such as "Stupid dog!" achieved widespread online recognition starting in the early 2000s. Fan communities flourished around this era's shows, with dedicated events and promotions on Cartoon Network engaging audiences through marathons and special broadcasts from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s. Nostalgia for these programs persists in the 2020s, evident in viral social media content revisiting The Powerpuff Girls, which has inspired countless edits and discussions evoking childhood memories. Cartoon Cartoons advanced diversity in children's media by featuring strong female protagonists in The Powerpuff Girls, which emphasized themes of empowerment and teamwork, appealing to a broad audience and influencing subsequent girls' programming in the 2000s. The block also incorporated multicultural representation, as seen in Codename: Kids Next Door, where the core team included characters from varied ethnic and national backgrounds, promoting inclusivity in adventure narratives aimed at young viewers. These elements contributed to a gradual improvement in character diversity across animated series during the period. On a global scale, Cartoon Cartoons helped shape international practices by demonstrating effective short-to-series development pipelines, which European programs like the EU's MEDIA-backed initiative adopted to support emerging creators post-2000. The block's success facilitated Cartoon Network's worldwide distribution, exposing non-U.S. audiences to American-style original and encouraging cross-cultural adaptations in studios across and beyond. The enduring cultural footprint of Cartoon Cartoons is reflected in its role as a cornerstone of millennial childhoods, with surveys and cultural analyses highlighting how these series formed key nostalgic touchstones for an entire generation. By retrospectives, they were recognized as pivotal in defining shared pop culture experiences, influencing perceptions of and humor in .

Expansions in Other Media

The Cartoon Cartoons programming block and its associated original series spawned extensive merchandise lines from 1998 onward, particularly for flagship shows like The Powerpuff Girls. By 2002, the franchise had generated nearly $1 billion in retail sales through toys, apparel, and collectibles distributed by partners such as Trendmasters and Play Along. Overall, The Powerpuff Girls alone amassed more than $2.5 billion in global retail sales since its 1998 debut, making it one of Cartoon Network's top-grossing properties and a cornerstone of the block's commercial expansions. Comic book adaptations further extended the Cartoon Cartoons universe through partnerships with DC Comics' Johnny DC imprint. The Powerpuff Girls ongoing series ran from 2000 to 2006, producing 70 issues that adapted and expanded the show's narratives with original stories featuring the superhero trio battling villains like Mojo Jojo. Anthology titles such as Cartoon Network (1998–2000) and Cartoon Cartoons (2001–2004) compiled shorts from multiple series including Dexter's Laboratory and Ed, Edd n Eddy, while Cartoon Network Action Pack (2006–2012) continued the format with action-oriented tales from the block's legacy shows. In the 2010s, IDW Publishing reprinted select DC-era Cartoon Network comics and launched new titles, including crossovers like Super Secret Crisis War! (2014), which united characters from The Powerpuff Girls, Dexter's Laboratory, and others in a multiverse-spanning event. Theatrical and television films provided key cinematic expansions for prominent Cartoon Cartoons series. : Ego Trip, a 1999 made-for-TV movie, served as a , depicting the boy genius traveling through time to thwart a dystopian future threat from his adult self and Mandark. (2002) marked the block's sole wide theatrical release, exploring the origin of , Bubbles, and Buttercup as they confront Mojo Jojo's plot to conquer ; it earned $11.4 million domestically and $16.4 million worldwide against an $11 million budget. Video games adapted Cartoon Cartoons properties across consoles and handhelds, emphasizing platforming and puzzle-solving tied to each series' premise. Titles like : Relish Rampage (2002, various platforms) and Dexter's Laboratory: Chess for Lunch! (2001, ) targeted young audiences with levels recreating show episodes. For Codename: Kids Next Door, Operation S.O.D.A. (2004, ) involved operatives battling soda-fueled mutants, while later entries like Operation V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. (2005, multi-platform) expanded the spy-kid lore into 3D action-adventure gameplay. Mobile apps in the 2020s, such as Cartoon Network's official streaming platform, incorporated interactive elements from revived Cartoon Cartoons content, including mini-games based on 2016 reboot. Non-traditional media formats included reprints and digital experiences that sustained the block's legacy. IDW's 2013 partnership with Cartoon Network facilitated omnibus collections reprinting 1990s–2000s comics from DC, such as Cartoon Network All-Star Omnibus (2015), bundling stories from Johnny Bravo and Courage the Cowardly Dog. Virtual reality offerings, like Cartoon Network Journeys VR (2019, Steam), immersed users in abstract worlds inspired by the block's surreal animation style, though no major stage productions or 2025-specific VR tie-ins emerged. By 2010, non-television revenue streams—including merchandise and licensing for Cartoon Cartoons series—contributed significantly to the broader Cartoon Network portfolio, with individual franchises like The Powerpuff Girls exceeding $2.5 billion in cumulative retail alone.

References

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