7 Best Animated Series For Adults

Hey there, fellow grown-ups! So, you've survived another week, maybe battled some spreadsheets, dealt with that one coworker who microwaves fish (we all have one, right?), and now you're craving some serious couch-and-TV time. But here’s the dilemma: what to watch? The usual suspects feel a bit…meh. You want something smart, funny, maybe a little weird, and definitely not something that requires explaining to your grandma. Enter the glorious world of adult animated series. Yep, cartoons aren't just for kids anymore! Think of it as a nostalgic trip with a mucho mature twist. So, grab your comfiest blanket, perhaps a sneaky snack (we won't tell!), and let's dive into my top 7 picks for animated shows that'll make your adult brain sing. These are the ones that’ll have you snorting with laughter one minute and contemplating the universe the next. It’s a wild ride, folks, strap in!

First up on our animated adventure, we have a show that's basically the adult equivalent of your favorite Saturday morning cartoons, but with way more existential dread and way less sugar cereal. It’s a show that bravely tackles the mundane realities of adulthood with a surreal, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt spin. Imagine if your most bizarre dreams and your deepest anxieties decided to have a party in your living room. That’s kind of what you’re in for. The animation style is unique, the characters are deeply flawed but utterly lovable, and the humor? Oh, the humor is just chef’s kiss.

1. Rick and Morty

Alright, alright, I know. You've probably heard of this one. Maybe you've even tried it and got a little lost in the sci-fi jargon. But stick with me here, because Rick and Morty is an absolute masterpiece of adult animation, and it deserves its spot at the top. This show is about a nihilistic, alcoholic super-genius scientist, Rick, and his anxious, good-hearted grandson, Morty, who go on wild, dimension-hopping adventures. Think Doctor Who meets The Simpsons on a cosmic acid trip. The humor is incredibly clever, often dark, and always keeps you on your toes. You’ll find yourself laughing at jokes that are so layered, you might not even get them until the second or third watch (which, let’s be honest, you’ll definitely be doing).

What makes it so good for us adults? It’s the way it tackles big, philosophical questions without ever feeling preachy. It delves into themes of free will, the meaning of life (or lack thereof), and the complexities of family dynamics, all while Rick is belching out incomprehensible scientific theories and Morty is having a panic attack. It's messy, it's brilliant, and it’s guaranteed to make you think. Plus, the sheer creativity of the alien worlds and creatures they encounter is mind-blowing. Just try not to think too hard about the potential for infinite suffering across the multiverse. Easy peasy, right? This is the kind of show that makes you say, "Wow, cartoons can be this smart."

2. BoJack Horseman

Prepare yourselves, because BoJack Horseman is about to hit you right in the feels. This is not your typical laugh-out-loud comedy, although it has its hilarious moments. This is a show that uses animation to explore the darker, more complex aspects of depression, addiction, fame, and the relentless search for happiness. BoJack himself is a washed-up 90s sitcom star, a horse who is, frankly, a mess. He’s self-destructive, self-pitying, and has a knack for pushing away everyone who cares about him. Sound fun? Well, it is, in its own wonderfully, tragically human way.

The brilliance of BoJack Horseman lies in its ability to be incredibly funny and utterly heartbreaking, often within the same scene. The supporting characters are equally well-developed: Diane the ghostwriter, Princess Carolyn the agent, Todd the lovable slacker, and Mr. Peanutbutter the infuriatingly optimistic golden retriever. Each character grapples with their own set of issues, and their journeys are depicted with such nuance and honesty, it’s almost uncomfortable at times. It’s a show that acknowledges that life is messy, that people are complicated, and that sometimes, even with the best intentions, things fall apart. But amidst the darkness, there are moments of genuine connection and hope. It’s a reminder that even a flawed character can be compelling, and that’s a very adult realization, wouldn’t you say? It will make you laugh until you cry, and then cry until you laugh again. A real rollercoaster for your emotions, folks.

3. Archer

Now, for something completely different! If you like your humor dry, your spy thrillers ridiculous, and your characters infuriatingly incompetent yet somehow still employed, then Archer is your jam. This show is pure, unadulterated, adult-oriented comedy. It follows the exploits of Sterling Archer, a suave but deeply immature secret agent, and his equally dysfunctional colleagues at the International Secret Intelligence Service (ISIS). The dialogue is rapid-fire, packed with pop culture references, and boasts some of the most quotable lines in animated history. Seriously, I still find myself muttering "phrasing" under my breath on occasion.

What makes Archer so perfect for adults? It’s the sheer audacity of its humor. It’s politically incorrect, it’s over-the-top, and it never apologizes for it. The show skewers spy tropes with gleeful abandon, creating scenarios that are both thrilling and hilariously absurd. You’ll witness car chases, betrayals, improbable rescues, and a whole lot of drinking. The animation style, while simple, perfectly complements the sharp writing and the character-driven comedy. And let’s not forget the characters themselves – they are a collection of glorious caricatures, each with their own unique brand of terrible. From the domineering Malory Archer to the perpetually injured Cyril Figgis, you’ll find yourself strangely attached to these awful people. It's the kind of show that reminds you that sometimes, the most enjoyable way to deal with complex situations is with a healthy dose of sarcasm and a perfectly aimed tranquilizer dart. Plus, the sheer volume of catchphrases you'll pick up is astounding. Get ready to be dangerously funny.

4. Bob's Burgers

Oh, Bob's Burgers. This show is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, but with more quirky family dynamics and way more creative burger puns. It centers around the Belcher family – Bob, Linda, and their three eccentric children, Tina, Gene, and Louise – who run a struggling burger restaurant. What sets Bob's Burgers apart is its incredible warmth and its unwavering commitment to its characters. These aren't caricatures; they feel like real people, albeit very funny, very strange people.

The humor in Bob's Burgers is gentle, observational, and often derived from the everyday struggles of running a small business and raising a family. Bob’s dry wit, Linda’s infectious enthusiasm (and vocal stylings), Tina’s awkward teenage obsessions, Gene’s theatrical pronouncements, and Louise’s maniacal genius all come together to create a truly special dynamic. The show is remarkably optimistic, even when things go wrong, and it celebrates the love and support within the Belcher family, no matter how chaotic things get. And let’s talk about the burgers. The creative burger names are a constant source of amusement, and the sheer passion Bob has for his craft is inspiring. It’s a show that proves you can be funny, heartwarming, and incredibly wholesome all at once. If you’re looking for a show that will make you smile, chuckle, and maybe even feel a little inspired by the power of family (and fantastic burgers), then you’ve found your match. It's like a cozy sweater for your brain, but with better jokes. Truly a burger-tastic choice!

5. Family Guy

Okay, I know Family Guy is a bit of a controversial pick for some, and I get it. It can be incredibly hit-or-miss, and some of the jokes have definitely aged like milk. But you can't deny its enduring legacy and its undeniable impact on adult animation. For me, Family Guy is at its best when it’s pushing boundaries, when it’s utterly absurd, and when it leans into its surreal cutaway gags. It follows the adventures of the Griffin family: Peter, Lois, their three kids (Chris, Meg, and Stewie), and their talking dog, Brian. Yeah, a talking dog. That’s just the tip of the iceberg with this show.

The humor is, to put it mildly, unconventional. It relies heavily on pop culture references, observational humor about American life, and those infamous cutaway scenes that can range from genius to…well, less genius. But when it’s on, it’s hilarious. Stewie’s evil genius schemes and his complex relationship with Brian are often the highlights, offering a surprising depth amidst the often-juvenile humor. It’s the kind of show that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its charm for adults who just want to switch off their brains and laugh at something completely ridiculous. It's a guilty pleasure for many, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that! Sometimes, you just need a show that will make you groan and guffaw in equal measure. And let’s be honest, some of those cutaways are iconic. It’s a show that says, "Why be normal when you can be hilariously weird?"

6. The Venture Bros.

Prepare for a deep dive into a world of super-science, sad sack heroes, and an almost encyclopedic knowledge of comic book lore. The Venture Bros. is a show that rewards its viewers with intricate storytelling, brilliant character development, and a humor that’s both sophisticated and delightfully goofy. It follows the misadventures of the Venture family, led by the well-meaning but utterly incompetent Dr. Thaddeus "Rusty" Venture, his two teenage sons, Hank and Dean, and their perpetually loyal henchmen. Think Jonny Quest reimagined by a group of hyper-intelligent, slightly jaded comedy writers.

What makes The Venture Bros. so special is its incredible world-building. It has a vast cast of characters, each with their own complex backstories and motivations. The show masterfully blends action, comedy, and genuine drama, exploring themes of legacy, disappointment, and the search for identity. The humor is often referential, playing on decades of superhero tropes and Saturday morning cartoons, but it’s never inaccessible. Even if you’re not a comic book aficionado, the wit and charm of the characters will draw you in. The show is known for its long story arcs and its subtle foreshadowing, making rewatches incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to smart writing and a love for the absurd. This is a show that doesn’t shy away from being weird, and in doing so, it creates something truly unique and utterly compelling. It's the kind of show that makes you feel like you're part of an inside joke, but the joke is so good, you'll happily keep telling it to yourself. Simply venture-tastic!

7. Futurama

We're rounding out our list with a classic that’s been resurrected more times than a certain cartoon cat and dog duo – Futurama. Created by Matt Groening, the mastermind behind The Simpsons, this show transports us to the year 3000, following the misadventures of Philip J. Fry, a pizza delivery guy who accidentally freezes himself and wakes up in the future. He quickly finds himself working at Planet Express, a delivery company run by his distant nephew, Professor Farnsworth. And thus, a whole new universe of hilarious chaos unfolds.

What makes Futurama such a perfect fit for adult audiences? It’s the perfect blend of witty humor, sharp satire, and surprisingly poignant storytelling. While it’s packed with sci-fi gags and hilarious jabs at future society, it also explores deeper themes of friendship, love, and belonging. The characters are incredibly endearing: the dim-witted but lovable Fry, the cynical robot Bender, the one-eyed captain Leela, the eccentric Professor Farnsworth, and the rest of the quirky Planet Express crew. Each character is well-developed and contributes to the show's unique brand of comedy. The show’s ability to be both outrageously funny and genuinely moving is its greatest strength. It’s the kind of show that can make you laugh out loud at a ridiculous situation one minute and then have you tearing up at a heartfelt moment the next. It’s a testament to clever writing that can appeal to both your inner child and your adult sensibilities. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good robot with a penchant for stealing shiny objects? A truly timeless series that proves the future can be both hilarious and heartwarming. To the moon, and beyond!

So there you have it, my fellow animation enthusiasts! Seven fantastic animated series that prove cartoons are not just for kids anymore. They can be witty, thought-provoking, hilariously irreverent, and even deeply emotional. Whether you're looking for a laugh-out-loud adventure through the multiverse, a deep dive into the complexities of the human (or anthropomorphic) condition, or just some good old-fashioned absurd humor, there’s something here for everyone. So go forth, explore these animated worlds, and let yourself be entertained, challenged, and maybe even a little bit inspired. After all, a little bit of animated magic can go a long way in making adulting a whole lot more fun. Now go forth and binge-watch responsibly (or not, I won't judge!). Happy viewing!