20 Top-Rated Adult Cartoons You Can’t Miss

Animation used to be seen mostly as something made for kids, but that idea has changed a lot over the years. Today, there’s a whole world of animated shows made just for adults. These shows are more than just funny—they can be deep, thoughtful, emotional, or even dark.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes adult cartoons special and look at the most popular, important, and influential ones that have shaped this growing genre.

What Is an Adult Cartoon?

Adult cartoons are animated shows meant for older teens and adults, not for young children. These shows often include more serious topics, mature jokes, and sometimes strong language or violence. They may talk about real-life issues like politics, relationships, or mental health.

Some might have adult humor or explore dark and serious themes, but that doesn’t mean they’re inappropriate or obscene. Instead, they aim to entertain and connect with adult viewers by showing things that they can understand and relate to.

AdWeek described adult cartoons well—they’re shows made for grown-ups, often with bold, edgy humor that mixes real-life struggles with fantasy. These cartoons also reflect the interests, humor, and values of the generation watching them. That’s why they can be so different from traditional family-friendly animations.

List of Top-Rated Adult Cartoons

Top Adult Cartoons of All Time, sorted from highest to lowest IMDb rating:

Note: IMDb ratings can fluctuate. The data presented is based on available research material at the time of this report.

Rick and Morty (2013–present)

Created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon

Rick and Morty is an animated sci-fi comedy that follows the wild, interdimensional adventures of a cynical, alcoholic scientist named Rick Sanchez and his nervous but well-meaning grandson, Morty. Together, they travel through alternate realities, alien worlds, and dangerous situations that often test their morals and relationships. The show mixes outrageous science fiction concepts with dark humor, shocking twists, and often, surprisingly deep emotional moments.

What makes Rick and Morty stand out is its ability to be hilarious while also making viewers think. Whether it’s questioning the nature of free will, exploring broken family dynamics, or poking fun at pop culture, the series blends absurd comedy with smart storytelling. Its sharp writing, fast-paced plots, and unique animation style have helped it become one of the most popular adult cartoons of all time.

Arcane (2021–Present)

Created by Christian Linke & Alex Yee

Arcane is a visually stunning animated series set in the universe of the popular video game League of Legends. It tells the origin stories of iconic characters like Vi and Jinx, set in the twin cities of Piltover and Zaun. The show explores themes of class divide, family conflict, and scientific ambition with rich character development and emotional depth. Its animation style, blending hand-painted textures with fluid action sequences, sets a new standard in TV animation.

Even viewers unfamiliar with the game have praised Arcane for its storytelling, music, and world-building. It earned instant critical acclaim for its mature themes, layered characters, and ability to balance spectacle with substance. With a second season on the way, Arcane continues to impress as one of the most artistically ambitious and emotionally resonant adult cartoons ever made.

BoJack Horseman (2014–2020)

Created by Raphael Bob-Waksbergac

Set in a world where humans live alongside talking animals, BoJack Horseman tells the story of a washed-up 90s sitcom star who struggles with addiction, self-doubt, and the search for meaning in his life. BoJack, a humanoid horse, tries to revive his career while facing the emotional consequences of his past mistakes. Though the series is full of clever jokes and Hollywood satire, it’s also deeply introspective.

BoJack Horseman became famous for exploring mental health, depression, and toxic behavior in a way few animated shows ever have. Each character is flawed and complex, and the writing often shifts between comedy and heartbreaking drama. With its bold storytelling, surreal visuals, and unforgettable dialogue, the show left a lasting mark on adult animation and continues to be praised for its honesty and emotional depth.

South Park (1997–present)

Created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone

South Park is one of the longest-running animated series in television history. It follows four foul-mouthed elementary school boys—Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny—as they experience life in a small Colorado town filled with absurdity. Known for its simple animation and fast production schedule, the show tackles everything from politics to pop culture, often just days after real-world events occur.

What sets South Park apart is its fearless approach to controversial topics. No subject is off-limits, and the show often uses shock humor to make sharp social commentary. Despite its crude style, it’s a smart and often insightful reflection of American society. Its creators, Parker and Stone, continue to push boundaries, making the show both relevant and rebellious for over two decades.

The Simpsons (1989–present)

Created by Matt Groening

The Simpsons is a groundbreaking animated sitcom that changed the face of television. Set in the fictional town of Springfield, it follows the everyday lives of the Simpson family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. What began as a simple family comedy quickly grew into a cultural icon, using satire to comment on everything from politics to entertainment and everyday life.

With over 30 seasons and counting, The Simpsons has influenced nearly every adult cartoon that came after it. Its mix of clever writing, relatable characters, and sharp humor has made it beloved by fans of all ages. Even as it evolves, the show remains a time capsule of American culture, always finding new ways to make people laugh—and think.

Invincible (2021–present)

Created by Robert Kirkman, based on the comic series

Invincible is a superhero cartoon that flips the genre on its head. It tells the story of Mark Grayson, a teenager who inherits superpowers from his father, Omni-Man, the most powerful hero on Earth. As Mark starts to understand what it means to be a hero, he also learns that his father has dark secrets, and the world he thought he knew is much more dangerous and complex.

While the animation style might feel traditional at first, Invincible quickly proves it’s meant for adults. The show features brutal fight scenes, emotional storytelling, and mature themes like betrayal, identity, and personal responsibility. Based on the comic by The Walking Dead creator Robert Kirkman, it has become a hit for its gripping plot and its bold, unflinching look at what power really means.

Blue Eye Samurai (2023–Present)

Created by Michael Green & Amber Noizumi

Blue Eye Samurai is a mature, animated revenge saga set in 17th-century Japan. It follows Mizu, a biracial sword master with piercing blue eyes who disguises herself as a man to seek vengeance against the white men responsible for her exile and pain. The story blends historical fiction, brutal action, and complex themes of identity, belonging, and rage with breathtaking animation and intense storytelling.

Praised for its cinematic visuals, compelling protagonist, and emotional weight, the show quickly became a standout on Netflix. Its mature tone and bold narrative choices mark it as a modern classic in adult animation. With its mix of samurai drama, social commentary, and stylized violence, Blue Eye Samurai has set a high bar for future animated dramas.

Adventure Time (2010–2018)

Created by Pendleton Ward

At first glance, Adventure Time looks like a colorful kids’ show, but it grew into something much deeper. It follows Finn, a human boy, and his magical dog Jake as they explore the fantastical Land of Ooo. While early episodes focused on fun and goofy adventures, the show gradually introduced serious themes like loss, identity, love, and growing up.

What makes Adventure Time special is its ability to evolve with its audience. As Finn matures, so does the show’s storytelling. Its creative world-building, poetic moments, and emotional story arcs gained it a large following among teens and adults. It showed that animated series can be whimsical and profound at the same time, paving the way for more emotionally complex cartoons.

Archer (2009–2023)

Created by Adam Reed

Archer is a stylish, action-packed animated comedy that spoofs the spy genre with a heavy dose of sarcasm and absurdity. It follows Sterling Archer, an arrogant and wildly inappropriate secret agent who works at a dysfunctional intelligence agency filled with equally flawed co-workers. The show is known for its fast-paced dialogue, clever jokes, and unique animation style inspired by vintage comic books.

Over the years, Archer has reinvented itself several times, moving between settings like Hollywood noir, tropical islands, and space adventures—often blurring the line between reality and fantasy. This willingness to evolve, combined with a sharp sense of humor and strong character dynamics, has kept the series fresh and exciting. Its witty one-liners and irreverent tone have made it a favorite among fans of edgy, offbeat comedy.

The Venture Bros.. (2003–2018)

Created by Jackson Publick

The Venture Bros. is a clever and satirical take on the classic adventure cartoon genre, especially shows like Johnny Quest. It follows the misadventures of Dr. Venture, his two dimwitted sons, and their bodyguard Brock Samson, as they face bizarre villains and outlandish sci-fi threats. The show is known for its witty dialogue, pop culture references, and long-running story arcs.

What started as a parody evolved into a deeply rich series with surprisingly emotional character development and intricate plotlines. It gained a cult following for its unique blend of humor, nostalgia, and drama. Although it never became mainstream, The Venture Bros. is widely respected as one of the smartest and most inventive adult cartoons ever produced.

Futurama (1999–2013, 2023–present)

Created by Matt Groening

Futurama takes viewers on a hilarious journey through space and time with Fry, a pizza delivery boy who accidentally freezes himself in 1999 and wakes up 1,000 years later. He joins the crew of Planet Express, including a feisty cyclops named Leela and a hard-drinking robot named Bender, as they deliver packages across the galaxy. The show blends science fiction and comedy with heartwarming character moments.

Though it shares a creator with The Simpsons, Futurama carves out its own identity with imaginative plots, futuristic satire, and emotional storytelling. It balances absurd humor with thoughtful stories about love, loss, and what it means to be human. Its ability to make audiences laugh and cry in the same episode has earned it a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

Pantheon (2022–present)

Created by Craig Silverstein

Pantheon is a thought-provoking animated drama based on short stories by Ken Liu. The show centers on a teenage girl who begins receiving mysterious online messages from her recently deceased father. As she investigates, she discovers a larger conspiracy involving uploaded human consciousness, rogue artificial intelligence, and the future of humanity itself. The series blends tech-heavy science fiction with emotional, human stories.

Although it hasn’t reached the popularity of some other titles on this list, Pantheon has been praised for its complex storytelling, strong performances, and high production values. With themes like digital immortality, corporate greed, and ethical dilemmas in AI, it stands out as one of the most intelligent and ambitious adult animated series in recent years. It’s 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating reflects its critical success.

Samurai Jack (2001–2004, 2017)

Created by Genndy Tartakovsky

Samurai Jack follows the journey of a noble samurai warrior flung into a dystopian future ruled by the shape-shifting demon Aku. The show is celebrated for its minimalist dialogue, atmospheric storytelling, and cinematic animation style. Jack’s quest to return to the past is filled with surreal encounters, epic battles, and philosophical moments.

While originally aired on Cartoon Network, the fifth and final season (released on Adult Swim) embraced darker and more mature themes, firmly placing it in the adult animation category. Samurai Jack stands out for its artistic innovation, emotional storytelling, and its influence on modern animation as both a visual and narrative masterpiece.

The Boondocks (2005–2014)

Created by Aaron McGruder

The Boondocks is a sharp, socially conscious animated series that follows Huey and Riley Freeman, two brothers who move to a predominantly white suburb with their granddad. The show tackles topics like race, politics, media, and pop culture through biting satire and intelligent commentary. It mixes anime-inspired visuals with street-smart dialogue and controversial humor.

Despite pushing boundaries, The Boondocks earned critical praise for its bold storytelling and fearless approach to taboo topics. Huey’s philosophical insights and Riley’s rebellious antics create a dynamic that keeps the show both thought-provoking and entertaining. It remains one of the most influential and daring adult cartoons ever aired on American television.

Bob’s Burgers (2011–present)

Created by Loren Bouchard

Bob’s Burgers is a feel-good animated sitcom about the Belcher family, who run a small, quirky burger restaurant. Bob, the father, tries to keep the business afloat while dealing with his enthusiastic wife Linda and their three eccentric kids: Tina, Gene, and Louise. The humor is warm and character-driven, often focusing on the family’s awkward but endearing attempts to connect with each other.

Unlike some edgier adult cartoons, Bob’s Burgers is more wholesome in its approach, celebrating the weirdness of everyday life and family bonds. The show is filled with catchy original songs, clever wordplay, and memorable side characters. Its charming blend of absurdity and sincerity has made it a comforting and beloved series for many viewers.

Family Guy (1999–present)

Created by Seth MacFarlane

Family Guy centers on the Griffin family—Peter, Lois, Meg, Chris, Stewie, and their talking dog Brian—living in the fictional town of Quahog, Rhode Island. Known for its fast-paced, cutaway-gag humor, the show often references pop culture, movies, and politics in outrageous and unpredictable ways. It has a distinct comedic voice that’s irreverent, absurd, and sometimes controversial.

While critics have been divided over the years, Family Guy has built a loyal fan base thanks to its bold jokes and memorable characters. Stewie, the evil-genius baby, and Brian, the sarcastic dog, became breakout stars of the series. Love it or hate it, Family Guy has been a major influence on modern animated comedy and remains a staple of the adult animation world.

Daria (1997–2002)

Created by Glenn Eichler & Susie Lewis Lynn

Daria is a smart, deadpan comedy that centers on Daria Morgendorffer, a cynical high schooler navigating life in the fictional suburb of Lawndale. Originally a spinoff of Beavis and Butt-Head, the show carved out its own identity with its sharp social satire and commentary on adolescence, conformity, and suburban life. Daria’s dry wit and indifference to her peers make her a relatable icon for many viewers.

The show became a cult favorite for its clever writing and unique tone, striking a balance between humor and heartfelt moments. It captured the alienation of teenage life in a way that felt both realistic and timeless. Daria remains beloved for giving voice to outsiders and smart girls who often go unheard in mainstream media.

King of the Hill (1997–2010)

Created by Mike Judge & Greg Daniels

King of the Hill follows the Hill family in the small town of Arlen, Texas, particularly the mild-mannered propane salesman Hank Hill. Unlike many adult cartoons that lean into absurdity, this show grounds itself in realism, exploring everyday American life with warmth, subtle humor, and social commentary. The show’s quiet brilliance lies in its characters’ simplicity and the small moments that define their lives.

While it may seem low-key compared to louder, more outrageous shows, King of the Hill has earned critical acclaim for its depth, heart, and consistency. It takes its time with character development and often delivers poignant messages under its comedic surface. Its respectful, nuanced view of working-class America has made it a staple of adult animation.

Robot Chicken (2005–Present)

Created by Seth Green & Matthew Senreich

Robot Chicken is a fast-paced sketch comedy series made with stop-motion animation using action figures and toys. Each episode is a wild ride of pop culture parodies, absurd humor, and quick-cut gags targeting everything from movies and video games to celebrities and comic books. It’s chaotic, irreverent, and packed with adult-oriented jokes.

The show’s unique visual style and unpredictable comedy earned it a loyal fan base and multiple Emmy Awards. With its rapid-fire format and no-holds-barred approach to satire, Robot Chicken helped redefine what short-form adult animation could look like. It’s a favorite among fans who enjoy edgy, nostalgic, and completely off-the-wall humor.

The Ren & Stimpy Show (1991–1995)

Created by John Kricfalusi

The Ren & Stimpy Show is one of the earliest adult-oriented cartoons, known for its surreal animation and shock humor. It follows Ren, a short-tempered chihuahua, and Stimpy, a dim-witted cat, as they go on bizarre and often grotesque adventures. The show was visually wild and pushed the limits of what was acceptable on TV at the time, especially for a cartoon.

Though controversial for its crude jokes and disturbing imagery, Ren & Stimpy has become a cult classic. It laid the groundwork for future adult cartoons by showing that animated shows didn’t need to be just for kids. Its unique visual style, bold storytelling, and rebellious spirit helped it stand out and remain influential decades later.

How Adult Animation Became Popular

Adult cartoons didn’t become popular overnight. In the 1970s, films like Fritz the Cat showed that animation could be used to tell grown-up stories.

But it wasn’t until the late 1980s and 1990s that adult animation really took off on TV. The Simpsons was a huge turning point—it proved that animated shows could be funny, smart, and successful with adult audiences. It opened the door for many other series.

After that, shows like South Park brought in sharp political humor, while King of the Hill focused more on everyday life. Cable networks like Adult Swim gave creators more freedom to experiment with weird, bold, and creative ideas.

Later, streaming services like Netflix helped the genre grow even more. With no strict rules and a global audience, shows like BoJack Horseman and Arcane could explore serious topics and tell longer, deeper stories. Today, adult animation is one of the most exciting parts of modern TV.