As a kid, I always loved cartoons. Turns out at 21, I still love them just as much.
However, my taste in television has changed slightly over the years (although "Spongebob" will forever remain top-tier in my eyes) and so I put together a list of a few shows from recent years that every adult raised by Cartoon Network can appreciate.
1. "Big Mouth"
If I'm being real, this show should be shown in middle schools sex ed classes. Not only is it unbelievably funny, it accurately illustrates all the awkwardness and confusion that comes along with puberty in a way that I never really had growing up. Not only that, but it can even be educational at times, with certain episodes like "Everybody Bleeds," "Am I Gay?" and "Girls Are Horny Too." Honestly, if this show came out when I was 12, it might've helped make my middle school experience feel slightly more normal.
2. "F is for Family"
One day when my girlfriend was sick in bed, the two of us spent all day going through this series in its entirety. Even though there are only two seasons out currently, it's one of my favorite raunchy cartoons that's been recently released. As a sincere portrayal of life for a working-class family in the 1970s, "F is for Family" can get dark at times, but no matter what it's quick-witted humor and hints of warmth keep you from ever getting too down.
3. "Bojack Horseman"
Speaking of dark shows, this is one that I can't guarantee you'll always be laughing through. Following the trials and tribulations of a washed-up sitcom actor and those who come in and out of his bender of a life, this provides a comical yet accurate take on dealing with depression, trauma, addiction, and self-destructive behavior. However, woven in between these moments are the show's hilariously satirical takes on current events, politics, and show business. In my opinion, it's the most "real" show on this list, in that it's brand of black comedy is equal parts pleasantly entertaining and scarily relatable.
4. "Rick and Morty"
Although pseudointellectual mega-fans have caused me to take a break from this show recently, I can't deny the fact that "Rick and Morty" belongs on this list. The original misadventures within an infinite number of realities, creative writing style, and unique characters have rightfully earned this show its universal acclaim. However, if I hear one more PICKLE RIIIIIIIIIICK reference I might just boycott it indefinitely.
5. "Bob's Burgers"
This is just one of those shows that are pretty hard not to like. Although the premise isn't as intricate or specific as some of these other examples, it's the family the show revolves around that makes this show stand out. Each and every character is eccentric yet lovable in their own unique ways, which make each and every episode both hilarious and comforting.
6. "Superjail"
This... this one is just too much for me to explain. Just give it a try.
7. "The Classics"
Obviously, adult cartoons are not a new concept. Shows like "The Simpsons," "Family Guy," "American Dad," "Futurama," "Animaniacs," "King of the Hill," "Daria," Bevis and Butthead," "The Oblongs," "South Park," and countless other Adult Swim brainchildren have been around for decades, so it's only right to give them their rightful shout-out on this list. These shows act as pioneers of the genre and will remain the foundation for adult cartoons for years to come.
