Revisiting 'The Oblongs': A Forgotten Gem In Adult Animation Deserving A Reboot

Reflecting on 'The Oblongs': A Pioneer in Adult Animation

In a world where adult animation has become a staple with hits like Harley Quinn, Invincible, and Hazbin Hotel, we owe a nod to the 2000s for setting the scene. This era saw an explosion of animated content both in America and globally, with anime giants like Dragon Ball Z and Naruto taking center stage. Meanwhile, American audiences embraced adult-themed animated sitcoms, thanks to trailblazers like Family Guy, American Dad, and HBO's early pioneer Spawn.

Despite the success of these shows, many other adult animated series have slipped into obscurity. One such series is The Oblongs, a show that first hit the airwaves 25 years ago and is crying out for a reboot.

The Oblongs' All-Star Lineup and Unique Premise

The Oblongs premiered on April 1, 2001, on The WB network, which later became The CW. This quirky animated series follows the Oblong family living in a polluted area known as The Valley. The family's deformities, caused by environmental waste, set the stage for a sitcom that mirrors real-world issues like class disparity and economic struggles. With stars like Will Ferrell as the limbless patriarch Bob, Jean Smart as the hairless mother "Pickles," and Pamela Adlon as the troubled child Milo, the show featured a talented cast from the start.

Although only thirteen episodes were produced, with just eight airing on The WB, The Oblongs managed to capture a niche audience when Cartoon Network's Adult Swim picked up the series. It gained a minor cult following after its DVD release in 2005, but still remains largely forgotten.

“The Oblongs was ahead of its time, offering a satirical glimpse into societal issues many weren't ready to face back in the 2000s,” said a fan on social media.

The Case for a Reboot: Why Now?

Ironically, The Oblongs might have been too ahead of its time, pioneering the edgy satire that today's hits like Rick and Morty and South Park thrive on. With stars like Will Ferrell and Jean Smart going on to achieve greater success, the show had undeniable talent.

Today, topics like environmental collapse and economic disparity are more relevant than ever, making The Oblongs ripe for a comeback. In a world that has warmed up to adult animated sitcoms holding a satirical mirror to society, this forgotten series could have a newfound audience ready to embrace its unique brand of humor.

With so many '90s and 2000s shows receiving reboots, it seems only right for The Oblongs to finally get its due. Stream the original series on Tubi and join the conversation about your favorite animated series on the ComicBook Forum!