Top Animated Hits Of The 2000S: A Year-By-Year Cartoon Countdown

The 2000s: A Cartoon Renaissance

The 2000s ushered in a golden era for animation, continuing the vibrant legacy of the 1990s. With advancements in technology, including the rise of CGI and innovative cartoon blocks like Adult Swim, the decade produced an array of diverse shows. While children's cartoons were prevalent, the era also catered to mature audiences, making it a landmark decade for animation enthusiasts.

Listing every cartoon from the 2000s would be a colossal task. Instead, we've highlighted one standout series from each year, showcasing the variety and creativity that captivated audiences and left a lasting impact.

2000: 'Aqua Teen Hunger Force'

Adult Swim's Aqua Teen Hunger Force introduced viewers to the bizarre antics of Master Shake, Frylock, and Meatwad, a trio of sentient fast food items navigating suburban life. Known for its surreal humor, the show thrives on randomness and irreverent wit, with each episode offering a fresh blend of chaos and comedy.

Master Shake's schemes, Frylock's attempts at sanity, and Carl's unfortunate involvement result in unpredictable adventures, making it a quintessential Adult Swim classic.

2001: 'Samurai Jack'

Samurai Jack, from the mind of Genndy Tartakovsky, is a visually stunning series that follows a young samurai's quest to defeat the demon Aku. Sent to a dystopian future, Jack's journey is marked by a blend of fantasy and sci-fi, with minimal dialogue and compelling visuals driving the narrative.

“The animation in Samurai Jack speaks volumes, capturing the essence of its fantastical world through its striking aesthetics.”

The show's unique storytelling and memorable characters have solidified its status as an animated masterpiece, earning a revival to complete Jack's epic saga.

2002: 'Kim Possible'

Disney's Kim Possible broke the mold by combining high school drama with superhero escapades. Kim's globetrotting missions, aided by her quirky sidekick Ron and tech-savvy Wade, face off against the likes of Dr. Drakken and Shego, delivering action-packed episodes with a humorous twist.

The show's smart writing and relatable characters continue to charm audiences, proving that teen drama and espionage make an irresistible combo.

2003: 'Teen Titans'

Teen Titans offered a fresh take on superhero storytelling, focusing on the lives of Robin, Raven, Cyborg, Starfire, and Beast Boy as they defend Jump City. Balancing serious arcs with zany adventures, the show flourished with its anime-influenced animation and character-driven plots.

The blend of lighthearted and intense moments has made Teen Titans a beloved part of DC's animated universe.

2004: 'The Venture Bros.'

The Venture Bros. started as a parody of classic adventure series but evolved into a character-rich show exploring themes of legacy and failure. Dr. Thaddeus Venture, his sons, and their bodyguard Brock Samson embark on thrilling yet dysfunctional escapades.

The series is a tribute to sci-fi and adventure genres, delivering a thoughtful examination of its characters while keeping viewers entertained with humor and heart.

2005: 'Avatar: The Last Airbender'

Avatar: The Last Airbender is a storytelling triumph that captivates audiences with its intricate world and profound themes. Aang's journey to master the elements and end the Fire Nation's tyranny is a blend of whimsical comedy and serious narratives that resonate across generations.

The show's rich character development and philosophical insights make it a standout in animation history, celebrated by both young and older fans alike.

2006: 'Curious George'

Curious George brings the beloved monkey to life with bright animation and gentle storytelling. George's adventures, often teaching life lessons, are relatable for children, thanks to the show's simplicity and charm.

Frank Welker's portrayal of George is a highlight, capturing the character's curiosity and warmth.

2007: 'Phineas and Ferb'

Phineas and Ferb captures the endless possibilities of summer with imaginative inventions and sibling shenanigans. Balancing humor with heart, the show offers catchy music and clever storytelling, delighting audiences of all ages.

The dynamic between the brothers, their sister Candace, and the secret agent Perry the Platypus creates a comedic formula that never disappoints.

2008: 'The Spectacular Spider-Man'

The Spectacular Spider-Man brings Peter Parker's dual life into sharp focus, highlighting his struggles as a young hero. The show's faithful adaptation of Spider-Man's universe, combined with rich character arcs, makes its premature cancellation a sore point for fans.

The series remains a favorite for its engaging storylines and dynamic action sequences.

2009: 'Archer'

Closing the decade is Archer, a witty blend of spy thriller and office sitcom. Sterling Archer's chaotic missions and dysfunctional team adventures are filled with sharp humor and clever writing, making it a standout hit.

The show's unique style and character dynamics offer endless comedic potential, solidifying Archer's place in animation lore.