45 Iconic 2000s Cartoons That Will Take You Right Back to Your Childhood

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For quite a while, television shows have run concurrently with me, almost since their inception. Some decades, like the 80s and 90s, produced timeless series that continue to be fondly remembered years after they were first released. Recently, however, the cartoons from the 2000s are starting to be viewed as classics, comparable to the well-known and influential cartoons of yore. Not all shows from this era have been universally praised, but some stand out in viewers’ memories as exceptional.

It’s disappointing, as a dedicated fan, that some of the most iconic shows from the 2000s haven’t been officially released in their entirety. This leaves us with cherished memories, carefully saved clips, and occasional full episodes to reminisce and rewatch. These remarkable cartoons, spanning various trends of the decade – such as the surge of anime, the enduring appeal of the ’90s “thick line” aesthetic, and the rise of flash animation – are timeless gems that continue to captivate us.

Created by Genndy Tartakovsky

Among classic cartoons that bring back fond memories, Dexter’s Laboratory stands out as a favorite alongside The Powerpuff Girls. While the theme of a child prodigy isn’t entirely original, Dexter’s Lab is undeniably one of the most exceptional portrayals of such a narrative. Despite his youth, Dexter boasts an intelligence that surpasses that of his family members and peers, with the exception being his equally brilliant rival, Mandark.

In the realm of my favorite childhood shows, nothing quite compares to the wonderland that was Dexter’s secret lab. Even those who didn’t aspire to be scientists found themselves drawn to its cutting-edge tech. However, what truly made Dexter’s Laboratory stand out was its humor. Dexter’s life was a constant whirlwind of dealing with his mischievous older sister Dee, but the rest of his family added layers of entertainment to the mix. To illustrate, Dexter’s parents were often at the heart of hilarious jokes and gags. Dexter’s Lab was an exceptional cartoon because it provided enjoyment for both kids and their parents alike.

Created by Michael Paraskevas and Betty Paraskevas

Not all cartoons made for young children will have lasting impact or be worth rewatching as time goes by. However, Maggie & the Ferocious Beast stands out as an exceptional choice among children’s cartoons. The main character, Maggie, is a curly-haired little girl with the most incredible friends anyone could ask for: Beast and Hamilton. Among the best cartoon companions, it’s primarily Beast who steals the show.

In the captivating tale of “Maggie & the Spotted Beast,” a magical creature adorned with red polka dots possesses the power to transform these spots into enchanting feats. This delightful story perfectly encapsulates the essence of childhood, offering a fantastical world that every youngster yearns for. Aimed at kindergartners, the series lacks the weightiness often associated with more mature content, but it excels in every aspect suitable for its intended audience.

Created by Paul Germain and Joe Ansolabehere

Among children from all age groups in schools, it’s safe to say that most would concur that the two highlights of their school day are lunchtime and the afternoon play break (recess). Recess plays a significant role in childhood for many kids, making it an excellent foundation for the TV series called “Recess“. This show centered around a group of fourth-graders who were often considered outcasts. It wasn’t just about schoolyard games; it tackled surprisingly profound topics related to the power dynamics within a school playground. Each of the six primary characters had unique traits and personalities, allowing each viewer to find a character they could relate to.

The TV series “Recess” reimagined playgrounds as arenas for struggles of liberty, territorial conflicts, and accountability. It had its share of bullies, informants, and authoritative teachers who often hindered the main characters. Ultimately, “Recess” was an exceptionally entertaining show that provided a peculiar sense of liberation to those watching alone. Even today, many adults who grew up with this show still cherish their favorite character fondly.

Developed by Mark Palmer, Jeff Astrof and Mike Sikowitz

In the 2000s, family adventure series were a popular and enduring genre, highlighting the significance of familial bonds. One such series was “The Wild Thornberrys,” an ideal choice for any child dreaming of becoming a zoologist or vet – essentially every animal-loving kid. Led by Nigel and Marianne, the unconventional yet thrill-seeking parents, the Thornberry family were always on the hunt for the perfect documentary footage. However, above all else, 12-year-old Eliza was the heart of the series, embodying the spirit of familial love.

The cartoon series The Wild Thornberrys was filled with unconventional chaos, largely due to the eccentricities of Nigel Thornberry and his adopted son Donnie, who bore resemblance to characters like Tarzan or Mowgli. Nigel, in particular, has been a source of endless memes for years thanks to his oddball remarks and oversized nose. The Wild Thornberrys veered away from traditional family dynamics, providing a unique perspective on a different kind of family life.

Created by Dan Yaccarino

One of the standout cartoons from the 2000s was undeniably Oswald. Although it didn’t last long on air, it left an indelible impression. Oswald imparted valuable life lessons such as appreciating the beauty of nature and enjoying time with friends. This was quite common for children’s shows, but what made Oswald exceptional was its unique character designs that turned watching it into a truly enjoyable experience.

In this tale, Oswald – our leading character – is a plump, blue octopus, often seen sporting his distinctive top hat. However, it’s not Oswald himself who steals the show, but his beloved pet, Weenie. As her name suggests, Weenie is none other than a hot dog and the true star of the story. The narrative may lack deep philosophical themes, yet it serves as a gentle reminder for all ages – including grown-ups – to cherish life’s small moments, which can sometimes be overlooked.

Developed by Craig Kyle and Greg Johnson

When Marvel unveiled that Wolverine and the X-Men would air on Nickelodeon, fans found themselves somewhat doubtful. After all, Wolverine was renowned as an X-Man, but now he was to take over the X-Men leadership role, a position typically held by characters such as Cyclops, Professor X, or Storm. This was a surprising turn of events.

Swiftly, Wolverine and the X-Men series demonstrated its worth through Craig Kyle and Greg Johnson’s well-structured narrative that kept audiences hooked episode after episode. The storyline commenced with the X-Men dispersed following the destruction of their mansion, with Wolverine reuniting the team due to a future Xavier providing him insights into a grim future for mutantkind. By the culmination of its first season, the series showed promise to eclipse even X-Men: The Animated Series. Unfortunately, despite garnering favor among viewers, Disney’s purchase of Marvel in 2008 prevented Wolverine and the X-Men from receiving a second season.

Created by Vincent Chalvon-Demersay and David Michel

In the 2000s, it was usually more challenging to find cartoons. However, “Totally Spies” paved the way for a significant change in this trend. This series focused on a band of teenage girls who juggled their school life with their secret agent duties. “Totally Spies” masterfully played with the typical elements found in spy stories, engaging in thrilling worldwide adventures as they outsmarted villains with inflated egos using their smarts and stylish gear.

Totally Spies achieved success among both male and female audiences, an uncommon feat for its time, ensuring the longevity of this animated show. In America, the show’s popularity was boosted by being one of the cornerstone cartoons for Cartoon Network’s new Miguzi block, which replaced Toonami as it transitioned to Saturday nights to cater to an older demographic. The series enjoyed such high popularity that it continued airing even after the characters graduated from high school and moved on to college, and is set to return for a seventh season in 2025.

Created by Dwayne McDuffie, Denys Cowan, Michael Davis, Derek T. Dingle, Christopher Priest

During the 90s, a group of gifted black artists established Milestone Media, a label dedicated to producing comics that reflected minorities more accurately. Regrettably, Milestone’s comics division ceased operations in 1997. However, one of their teenage characters, Static, found a place on Kids WB through the show Static Shock. This series focused on Virgil Hawkins, who, along with other youngsters, gained superpowers following an event known as “the Big Bang”. Unlike his peers who chose to misuse their powers for criminal activities, Virgil decided to use his abilities to safeguard people, transforming into the hero Static.

As a passionate movie reviewer, I can confidently say that Static Shock left an indelible mark on the animated world with its bold and courageous approach to tackling tough topics like gun violence and racism. This fearless exploration of relevant social issues is one of the many reasons why this groundbreaking series has managed to endure long after most other Kids WB shows have faded from memory. Even today, fans continue to voice their desire for a comeback, reflecting the lasting impact that Static Shock has had on our collective consciousness.

Moreover, what sets Static Shock apart is its commitment to character development, as evidenced by his re-emergence as an adult, seamlessly integrating him into the beloved DCAU (DC Animated Universe). This continuity not only deepens the richness of the universe but also underscores the timeless appeal of the Static Shock character.

Created and Directed By Dave Wasson

In the 2000s, Cartoon Network’s significant influence can be attributed largely to their “Cartoon Cartoons” label, a collection of original animated shows created by both budding and seasoned creators. In 2001, Cartoon Network debuted their tenth “Cartoon Cartoon,” named Time Squad. This series followed an inept group of time cops who ensured the future’s integrity by managing the past. The team consists of the overzealous but clumsy Buck Tuddrussel, the sarcastic robot Larry 3000, and Otto Osworth, the history-knowledgeable member who keeps the team functional.

Despite being produced by Dave Wasson, Time Squad doesn’t receive the recognition it truly deserves – a level of acclaim that many of its Cartoon Cartoons peers have already earned. The show utilized time-travel adventures to educate children about history, but unfortunately, it often aired so early in the morning that most kids were still asleep and preparing for school.

Created By Mike Young Productions

By the early 2000s, there was enough nostalgia for the ’80s that some animated shows were revived. Specifically, “He-Man and Masters of the Universe” and “Transformers: Armada” made their return on Cartoon Network’s Toonami block in 2002. Instead of continuing the storyline from where the original series by Filmation ended, the creators chose to provide a complete retelling of the original stories.

In this fresh take on the He-Man saga, we delve deeper into Adam Grayskull’s transformation from a boastful prince to Eternia’s guardian. Unlike its predecessor, it eschews a traditional episodic structure, instead unfolding as a single, continuous narrative across its first season. However, the initial wave of 80s nostalgia seemed to wane before the series could fully find its footing. Regrettably, despite its impressive quality, the show was terminated after completing a second season that aired between 2003 and 2004.

Created by Doug Langdale

In this Disney Channel animated series, the storyline centers around Dave, a remarkable barbarian in medieval times, living with his fashion-loving sister Candy and younger sibling Fang. With their parents, the King and Queen, absent on a mission to combat evil, it falls upon the trio to protect the kingdom of Udrogoth. These medieval escapades were filled with laughter and excitement, often engaging the audience through its clever humor and numerous self-referential jokes, which were typically provided by Dave the Barbarian’s narrator, voiced by Jeff Bennett, who is also known for his role as Johnny Bravo.

In Dave the Barbarian, what made him unique was his preference for the subtler and emotionally resonant aspects of life over the usual barbarian pursuit of territorial expansion. His antics with family, coupled with witty villains, absurd storylines, and frequently bizarre situations, resulted in a series that was both entertaining and cult-worthy. Despite its brief run, Dave the Barbarian’s appealing features endeared it to many viewers.

Created and Directed by John R. Dilworth

The show offers an extraordinary and absurdly surreal experience with a distinctive art style that combines early CGI and live-action elements. This unique blend effectively establishes a chilling and bizarre ambiance, balancing humor and relatively harmless frights. Upon its release, it garnered positive attention for introducing the horror genre to cartoons in a family-friendly format. Although some viewers found the exaggerated slapstick and terrifying scenes off-putting, leading to a cult following, those who continued watching became devoted admirers of the series.

Fans particularly enjoyed the diverse horror genre references in “Courage the Cowardly Dog” and the touching bond between Courage and Muriel. The duo provided a comforting contrast to the show’s suspense and occasionally sarcastic wit. What made it even more enjoyable was witnessing Courage conquer his fear with double the courage, fending off any evil that threatened him or his home by the end of each episode.

Created by Jeff Goode

As a cinema enthusiast, I can tell you that “American Dragon: Jake Long” revolves around me, a Chinese-American teenager named Jake, who uncovers the astonishing power to morph into a dragon. Needless to say, this transformation wasn’t exactly a walk in the park during my teenage years, given the additional burdens and complications it brought along. Yet, I embraced my supernatural powers with grace, balancing the duty of protecting mystical creatures from dragon slayers with caring for my beloved family and friends.

This animated series, American Dragon: Jake Long, offered a compelling mix of thrilling action, emotional family dynamics, heart-aching romance, and profound emotions. Despite being designed for children, it also captivated adults who tuned in to some episodes. The show was so well-received that it continued to air reruns on different Disney channels until 2012, and surprisingly, it has made a comeback more recently.

Created by Tania Palumbo and Thomas Romain

As a dedicated cinephile, I vividly remember the French animated series, Code Lyoko, gracing our screens on Cartoon Network back in 2004. It captivated the hearts of ’00s viewers with its unique blend of a virtual world, imbued with game-like elements, serving as an explorable playground for its characters. Despite the thrilling combats in this digital realm, it never lost sight of its overarching narrative, subtly strengthening the camaraderie and teamwork among the principal characters.

In essence, Code Lyoko was not just a series about a virtual world, but a serialized anime-like production that unfolded like an intricate storyline rather than a typical cartoon.

The story unfolds around Jeremy Belpois, an eighth grader, who discovers a powerful supercomputer housing a virtual world, an imprisoned AI character named Aleita, and a menacing multi-agent system known as XANA. This artificial intelligence entity has the potential to influence electronic devices and objects beyond its home computer, much like a malignant computer virus with supernatural abilities.

In essence, the plot of Code Lyoko blossoms from this premise, and upon reflection, many viewers believe that the tale of Code Lyoko has remained compelling even after its initial broadcast.

Created by Joe Murray – Creative Director: Mark O’Hare

In a vibrant universe inhabited by talking animals, Camp Lazlo transcends typical character representation and offers a wildly imaginative portrayal of a regular summer camp setting. It’s worth noting that the animal characters in this show were thoughtfully crafted to reflect the traits of their real-world counterparts. For instance, Patsy, Lazlo’s female equivalent in character, is actually modeled after a Mongoose.

Each episode revolves around the characters at Camp Kidney, focusing primarily on Lazlo and his companions Raj and Clam as they strive to unearth camp myths and engage in the eccentric activities organized by the enigmatic Moose, under the watchful eye of Scoutmaster Lumpus. Camp Lazlo was generally well-received, with older viewers and critics noting its lighthearted, adventure-filled comedy that consistently results in Lazlo and his friends doing good, even if they face challenges along the way. Kids from the 2000s were equally pleased with Camp Lazlo’s offerings, continuing to express fond memories of it even as they grew older.

Created by Mark Dindal

In a new spin on the story, “The Emperor’s New School” served as the TV sequel to the original tale, “The Emperor’s New Groove.” Kuzco, the young, sometimes arrogant heir to the throne, found himself back in the spotlight. However, this time, he was enrolled in a corrective school where he would learn about empathy and humanity in order to become a better ruler. Elements from “The Emperor’s New Groove,” such as Kuzco’s unique character traits and Yzma’s mischievous schemes, were continued, but in fresh and amusing new settings that kept the animated series engaging.

The lighthearted humor was essentially the heart of the show. It consistently provided laughter to viewers at every opportunity, even if it wasn’t universally praised by critics. The show, like the movie, was filled with recurring jokes that made fun of its own dialogues and situations, as well as references to ‘The Emperor’s New Groove.’ What makes the show particularly memorable is the significant presence of Kronk alongside main characters Kuzco and Yzma, which remains a reason for its continued positive reception.

Developed by Bill Motz and Bob Roth

The story continues, picking up where the 1999 movie “Tarzan” concluded. It then transformed into a beloved 2000s cartoon series that many fans still cherish today. This animated series stood out with its vibrant visuals, engaging plotlines, and well-developed character dynamics, making it an exceptional drama-comedy for those seeking a change from the traditional comedic cartoons. Tarzan, one of Disney’s most renowned characters, was brought to life once more on the small screen, offering viewers a chance to follow his tale further.

The enchanting and sugary series, “The Legend of Tarzan,” sadly ended prematurely in its second season, comprising merely three episodes. Despite this, it was one of the most cherished cartoons from the 2000s that left a lasting impression on viewers. Tarzan was endearing, and Jane was equally captivating; their ongoing adventures were enjoyed not just by the intended audience, but also by their family members, with many episodes emphasizing strong family values.

Created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes and Eric Weiner

While not known for its complex narratives, Dora the Explorer remains a cherished show for those who grew up watching it in the 2000s. Dora, a Latina girl, led young viewers on exciting journeys. Today, elements like her purple backpack and companions such as Boots and the Map evoke fond memories of a simpler time.

The children’s show, Dora the Explorer, had a unique blend of education and entertainment, often referred to as an interactive learning experience. During the program, a virtual cursor would appear on screen at certain moments when Dora asked viewers to help solve puzzles by identifying clues, objects or locations. As it may feel tedious for adults today who grew up with this show, those who watched it during its peak popularity often find themselves nostalgic and reminiscent of their childhood days.

Created by Jhonen Vasquez

Despite not initially airing on TV for several years after its creation, the massive fanbase of Invader Zim kept it relevant enough to spawn a 2015 comic series titled Invader Zim, written by Jhonen Vasquez, Eric Trueheart, and others, with art by Aaron Alexovich, Dave Crosland, and more. Additionally, in 2019, the show was revived for a movie, Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus!. Since its release, the Invader Zim cartoon has become a staple of pop culture, particularly through merchandise that became extremely popular during the early days of the internet and has since become synonymous with retro-internet culture.

The cartoon character Zim, an alien trying to take over a human planet disguised as a student at “Skool”, seems just as satirically apt today as it did in 2001. With its dark humor, occasional slapstick, and cynical perspective on humanity, Invader Zim offers both puzzling yet engaging viewing for younger audiences and uproarious entertainment for older ones. The memorable duo of Zim and his haphazard sidekick Gir have left lasting impressions that even casual glances can identify, thanks to their enduring popularity during the show’s initial release.

Created by Genndy Tartakovsky

Samurai Jack is often hailed as a pinnacle of American television animation during the 2000s, standing out amongst numerous cartoons from that era. The stories were straightforward and classic in nature, yet skillfully executed with animation, sound design, and direction that left younger viewers amazed and older fans captivated. The various cinematic influences of Genndy Tartakovsky, which included the likes of Akira Kurosawa, Sergio Leone, Akira, and Blade Runner, all contributed to making Samurai Jack a unique masterpiece.

It’s believed that young audiences could endure the quiet patience and introspection, with numerous instances demonstrating that diligence outweighs natural talent that is wasted. Years after the initial cartoon was released, Adult Swim’s Toonami program introduced a fifth season, targeting adults who were fans of the original. Many viewers rejoiced as it offered a more mature but still fulfilling conclusion to the series, which elegantly continued what made the original Samurai Jack so captivating.

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2025-04-27 18:12