30 Best Cartoon Network Shows From The 2000s, Ranked (2024)

Although Cartoon Network started becoming popular in the '90s, it was in the 2000s when their shows really took off. The network had some great cartoons that started in the 2000s, and many of these series carried over into the 2010s, proving that this was the best network on TV at the time for cartoons. Not only did the network have some great shows carrying into the decade, but it introduced some seriously memorable cartoons in the 2000s as well, giving Cartoon Network an entire decade of animated dominance.

Alongside the launch of Adult Swim in 2001 — the network's spinoff block of programs aimed at adults — Cartoon Network's regular programming simultaneously pushed the boundaries of animation for children. Today's more limited lineup presents a totally different landscape for the network, and so many continue to look back to the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s for next-level content and a hit of nostalgia from what was considered the Golden Age of Cartoon Network.

30 Total Drama (2007–2014)

A Hilarious Animated Satire Of Reality TV Shows

Total Drama (2007)

Animation

Comedy

Family

Drama

Twenty-two teenagers from diverse backgrounds are brought to an isolated island where they must compete in outrageous challenges inspired by reality TV shows. Under the supervision of the sad*stic host, Chef Hatchet, alliances are formed and backstabbed, as contestants face elimination each week until one winner remains, securing fame and a cash prize​.

Cast

Anthony Christian Potenza , Cle Bennett , Scott McCord , Megan Fahlenbock , Rachel Wilson

Release Date

July 8, 2007

Seasons

5

With several spin-offs and a revival, it's not too far-fetched to say that Total Drama continues to be one of the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s. The Survivor-like animated series is essentially a satirical depiction of reality TV, with each season revolving around a group of teenagers who join a competition and try to avoid elimination. It's certainly a show with more mature themes, as the competitors (much like on regular reality TV shows) develop relationships, fight, and backstab each other to stay in the game.

Total Drama was created by Jennifer Pertsch and Tom McGillis, premiering initially in Canada before moving over the US Cartoon Network channel a year later in 2008. While it takes most of its inspiration from Survivor when it comes to its satire, it parodies many conventions found across the wider genre of reality TV — and the results are hilarious.

29 Mucha Lucha (2002–2005)

Animated Luchador Adventures

Mucha Lucha (2002)

Kids

Comedy

Animation

Action

Adventure

In a world where lucha libre is a way of life, three young masked wrestlers—Rikochet, Buena Girl, and The Flea—attend the Foremost World-Renowned International School of Lucha. Together, they navigate wild adventures, battling bizarre opponents and upholding the "Code of Masked Wrestling," all while aspiring to become legendary luchadores.

Cast

Jason Marsden , Kimberly Brooks , Candi Milo , Carlos Alazraqui , Lee Tockar , Terry Klassen , Michael Donovan

Release Date

August 17, 2002

Seasons

3

Mexican wrestling is one of the country's most famous cultural exports, present in everything from WWE, thanks to wrestlers like Rey Mysterio, to Hollywood with movies like Nacho Libre. In 2002, Cartoon Network did its own spin on the sport with the animated show Mucha Lucha, which was also the first ever series created with Macromedia Flash. It's set in the town of Luchaville, where almost every resident wears a Lucha Libre costume and has a signature move.

Not only is Mucha Lucha among the best wrestling TV shows, but it's also the first Western animated series focused on pro wrestling. Mucha Lucha stars Rikochet, Buena Girl, The Flea, and El Rey — students at the Foremost World-Renowned International School of Lucha. Though not as well-remembered as many of the other best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, Mucha Lucha's over-the-top depiction of the Mexican art of Lucha Libre makes it a must-see.

28 Chowder (2007–2010)

The Cartoon Network Show That Took Risks With Its Humor

Chowder

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

*Availability in US

Chowder is an animated television series created by C.H. Greenblatt that aired on Cartoon Network in 2007. Set in the whimsical world of Marzipan City, the show follows the adventures of a young, aspiring chef named Chowder, who works as an apprentice under the eccentric master chef Mung Daal. The series features a blend of traditional and stop-motion animation, and explores themes of humor, friendship, and culinary creativity.

Cast

Nicky Jones , John DiMaggio , Tara Strong , Dwight Schultz , Dana Snyder , Liliana Mumy , C. H. Greenblatt , Mindy Sterling

Release Date

November 2, 2007

Seasons

3

Creator(s)

C. H. Greenblatt

The 2000s were an interesting time for animated kids' shows, as the genre was moving away from some of the risqué humor of '90s offerings like Ren & Stimpy and into safer territory. This is what makes Chowder, released in 2007, feel like such an oddity. Chowder isn't about the popular soup, but it does involve an aspiring young cook named Chowder. Chowder is an interesting character that's a mix between a cat, bear, and rabbit. Despite wanting to be a chef, he gets involved in comical scenarios due to his impulse control issues.

He often eats customers' meals due to being always hungry — but that's not all. Chowder can also regurgitate items, and his stomach is basically its own storage unit. Considering Chowder's sexist jokes and oftentimes inappropriate material, there are some parts that haven't aged well, and it's more of an adult cartoon than one that's aimed at children.

27 The Cramp Twins (2001–2004)

Sibling Rivalry Taken To The Extreme

The Cramp Twins (2001)

Animation

Comedy

The Cramp Twins is an animated television series that follows the lives of 10-year-old twins Wayne and Lucien Cramp, who share a strong dislike for each other. Despite their constant bickering and rivalry, they must navigate their daily lives in the fictional town of Soap City, often finding themselves in humorous and unexpected situations.

Cast

Tom Kenny , Wayne Cramp , Kath Soucie , Terry Klassen , Jayne Paterson , Tabitha St. Germain , Nicole Oliver

Release Date

February 8, 2001

Seasons

4

The Cramp Twins used a unique animation style to tell the story of fraternal twins Lucien and Wayne Cramp and give life to its subtly surreal suburban setting of Soap City. While the twins' mother, Dorothy, is a germophobic mad scientist obsessed with cleaning, their father, Horace, has an even more obsessive attitude toward classic Western movies.

Dorothy, Horace, and the other colorful residents of Soap City serve as supporting characters to the conflicts between the nerdy and nature-loving Lucien and the aggressive and blue-skinned scrap rat Wayne. While The Cramp Twins is one of many forgotten Cartoon Network shows from the era, that doesn't stop it from ranking among the best 2000s Cartoon Network shows. It has all the hallmarks that made the network's original content so popular during the decade, and almost every episode hits the mark when it comes to including laugh-out-loud humor.

26 Time Squad (2001–2003)

Historical Hijinks And Outrageous Sci-Fi Abound

Time Squad (2001)

Animation

Comedy

Time Squad is an animated television series that aired in 2001. The show follows a trio consisting of a cyborg, a boy, and a robot, who work for the fictional Time Squad organization. Their mission is to travel through time and correct historical inaccuracies to ensure the future remains on its proper course. The series combines elements of comedy and adventure while exploring various historical events and figures.

See Also

25 Best Cartoon Network Shows Of All Time Ranked - LooperUnderrated Cartoon Network Shows You Need To Watch - Looper13 Most Unpopular Cartoon Network Shows Of All TimeList of original series broadcast by Cartoon Network

Cast

Pamela Adlon , Rob Paulsen , Mark Hamill

Release Date

June 8, 2001

Seasons

3

From the lovable Otto Osworth to the excitable Larry 3000, the titular Time Squad is tasked with maintaining the flow of time and ensuring that the future remains a flawless utopia. Undoubtedly one of the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, Time Squad served almost like an after-school history class in the best ways possible, as the team of travelers meet figures like Abraham Lincoln and Sigmund Freud on their adventures.

The squad had to correct history's course by guiding these significant people down the right paths. Notably, while the comic book debut of Marvel's Kang the Conqueror far predates Time Squad, the cartoon aired over two decades before the Time Variant Authority debuted in Loki. Time Squad portrayed a far more lighthearted take on the idea of guardians of history, however, and while it's not as popular as some other Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, it is certainly among the most imaginative.

25 Xiaolin Showdown (2003–2006)

Anime Tropes Repackaged With A Cartoon Network Aesthetic

Xiaolin Showdown (2003)

Action & Adventure

Animation

Comedy

Kids

Xiaolin Showdown is an animated television series that follows four young monks in training—Omi, Kimiko, Raimundo, and Clay—as they search for mystical artifacts called Shen Gong Wu. Guided by their wise master, the monks use these artifacts to combat the evil boy genius Jack Spicer and other villains. The series showcases their journey to protect the world while mastering their elemental abilities and growing into Xiaolin warriors.

Cast

Tara Strong , Grey DeLisle , Tom Kenny , Jeff Bennett , Wayne Knight

Release Date

November 1, 2003

Seasons

3

Xiaolin Showdown was a 2000s Cartoon Network show that capitalized on the popularity of anime thanks to series like DragonBall Z, Sailor Moon, and Pokémon. In a world where martial arts and magic have become the norm, it's up to a group of Xiaolin warriors to make sure that evil forces don't steal the mystical artifacts known as the Shen Gon Wu, which can change everything in a good or terrible way, depending on who wields them.

One of the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, Xiaolin Showdown shows the struggles of brave characters like Omi and Kimiko Tohomiko as they travel the world to look for powerful artifacts and take on formidable enemies along the way. The series also raises some surprisingly mature questions about morality, with some of its heroes being tempted to use the artifacts for their own benefit.

24 Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends (2004–2009)

A Genuinely Emotional And Heartwarming Show

Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends (2004)

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends is an animated television series created by Craig McCracken. The show follows Mac, a young boy, and his imaginary friend Bloo, as they navigate life at Foster's, a mansion for abandoned imaginary friends. The series features a host of unique characters and explores themes of friendship, imagination, and belonging. The show originally aired on Cartoon Network from 2004 to 2009.

Cast

Sean Marquette , Keith Ferguson , Phil LaMarr , Tom Kenny , Candi Milo , Grey DeLisle , Tom Kane , Tara Strong , Jeff Bennett , Kevin Michael Richardson

Release Date

August 13, 2004

Seasons

6

Creator(s)

Craig McCracken

With original series creator Craig McCracken already working on the Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends reboot, there's no better time to rewatch what many consider one of the best 2000s Cartoon Network shows. Foster's Home represents the onset of truly surreal storytelling in Cartoon Network's regular programming. In this world where imaginary friends are physically real and coexist with humans, a young boy named Mac is pressured by his mother to abandon his imaginary friend, Bloo.

They soon discover a foster home for abandoned imaginary friends. As long as Mac visits Bloo there, he is safe from adoption, a heartwarming premise that gives way to hilarious narratives. Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends was also notable not just for its hilarity and incredibly unique animation style (even by Cartoon Network's standards), but also because it had more tear-jerking and genuinely emotional moments than any other show on the network.

23 The Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy (2001–2007)

The Grim Reaper Gets Thwarted By A Little Girl

Animatiom

Adventure

Comedy

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy is an animated television series that follows the bizarre lives of Billy, a dim-witted boy, and Mandy, his cynical friend, after they win a limbo contest against the Grim Reaper, who becomes their eternal servant. The show blends dark humor with supernatural elements, creating a unique comedic experience.

Cast

Greg Eagles , Richard Steven Horvitz , Grey Griffin , Vanessa Marshall , Jennifer Hale

Release Date

August 24, 2001

Seasons

6

Few Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, or any other decade for that matter, feature a trio of characters as memorable as Billy, Mandy, and Grim. Echoing Ingmar Bergman's The Seventh Seal, Grim, the personification of death, loses a limbo match against the dim-witted and cheerful Billy and his ego-driven and cynical best friend Mandy, forcing the Grim Reaper to be under the servitude of these children.

As would be expected from the premise, the scenarios and characters in The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy are incredibly horror-flavored, though the show isn't scary, instead portraying some dark concepts in an incredibly upbeat light. Unsurprisingly, many consider The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy to be foremost among the classic Cartoon Network shows that deserve movie adaptations. Curiously, viewers may not have realized Grim's constant desire to kill the two children at the beginning of the show.

22 Duck Dodgers (2003–2005)

Looney Tunes Goes Full Sci-Fi

Duck Dodgers (2003)

Animation

Comedy

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Duck Dodgers is an animated television series which aired in 2003, featuring Daffy Duck as the titular character. The show follows the bumbling hero who, after being accidentally frozen for over three centuries, is revived and mistakenly enlisted as Earth's greatest defender against Martian threats. Accompanied by his loyal sidekick, Space Cadet, Duck Dodgers embarks on various intergalactic adventures, blending comedy with science fiction elements.

Cast

Joe Alaskey , Bob Bergen , Richard McGonagle , Tia Carrere , Michael Dorn

Release Date

August 23, 2003

Seasons

3

While the majority of Cartoon Network shows in the 2000s featured original characters, the network was also host to many licensed properties with recognizable names and faces. Starring Looney Tunes characters in an even stranger setting, Duck Dodgers is a sci-fi adaptation of a short 1953 theatrical cartoon of the same name.

Featuring Daffy Duck as the eponymous protagonist, the show starts off with a humorous origin story, as Duck Dodgers finds himself in the far future after being accidentally frozen for over three centuries. He meets iconic characters in space like K'chutha Sa'am (Yosemite Sam), Witch Hazel (Leezah the Wicked), and Wile E. Coyote (a parody of the alien from Predator). The myriad references to franchises like Star Trek and even Bond films make the short-lived series even better to watch as an adult today.

21 Codename: Kids Next Door (2002–2008)

The Coolest Group Of Secret Agents On Cartoon Network

Codename: Kids Next Door (2002)

Animation

Action & Adventure

Comedy

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Family

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Codename: Kids Next Door is an animated television series that premiered in 2002, created by Tom Warburton. The show follows five 10-year-old children who operate from a high-tech treehouse, undertaking missions to fight against adult tyranny and childhood injustices. The team, known as Sector V, utilizes advanced gadgets and teamwork to combat various villains, navigating a world where kids rule. The series is noted for its imaginative storytelling and visual style.

Cast

Ben Diskin , Lauren Tom , Dee Bradley Baker , Cree Summer

Release Date

December 6, 2002

Seasons

6

No list of the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s would be complete without Codename: Kids Next Door. Like many original Cartoon Network programming, Codename: Kids Next Door took an established concept and put a spin on it that was beyond unique. In this case, it was spy movies and secret agents. Five kids — Numbuh 1 to Numbuh 5 — are trained by the organization known as Kids Next Door, undergoing oaths to protect children and battle adulthood.

These kids are in charge of Sector V, where their main base of operations is a high-tech tree house that's ridiculously much bigger from the inside. While the oathbound agents of Kids Next Door are typically decommissioned at the age of 13, it was later revealed that the most competent agents get recruited into Teens Next Door to spy on evil teens.

20 Sealab 2021 (2000-2005)

A Parody Of 1972's Sealab 2020

Sealab 2021

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Sealab 2021 is an animated television series that parodies the 1972 series Sealab 2020. The show is set in the titular underwater research station and revolves around its incompetent crew, led by Captain Murphy, as they encounter various absurd and often dangerous situations. Known for its satirical humor, the series is part of the Adult Swim programming block and showcases a blend of dark comedy and surrealism.

See Also

Check Out My List Of 28 Cartoon Network Characters And See If You Agree With My Rankings

Sealab 2021 premiered in 2000 on Cartoon Network, almost a year before the network created its Adult Swim block, which is where the cartoon moved to at that time. Along with Aqua Teen Hunger Force, The Brak Show, and Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law, it is one of the only four Williams Street shows that premiered before Adult Swim launched. The series uses stock footage from Sealab 2020 (which aired on NBC in 1972) mixed with original animation to tell the story.

Unlike the original cartoon on which it is based, there is no actual storyline, and every episode stands alone, often contradicting many things that happened before. The show plays as a parody of the original Sealab, and that helped it achieve an almost cult status. There were four seasons with a total of 52 episodes, and it mostly aired during the Adult Swim programming block.

19 Ben 10: Alien Force (2008–2010)

The Follow-Up To One Of Cartoon Network's Most Successful Franchises

Ben 10: Alien Force (2008)

Animation

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Action & Adventure

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

*Availability in US

Ben 10: Alien Force is a follow-up to the original Ben 10 series, set five years later. The series features a teenage Ben Tennyson who reactivates the Omnitrix to combat new extraterrestrial threats. Alongside his cousin Gwen and former rival Kevin, Ben faces the Highbreed and DNAliens to protect Earth. The show explores themes of teamwork and responsibility in a more mature tone compared to its predecessor.

Cast

Yuri Lowenthal , Greg Cipes , Dee Bradley Baker , Ashley Johnson

Release Date

April 18, 2008

Seasons

3

Ben 10 was one of the most successful original Cartoon Network shows, especially when it came to merchandising, so it's unsurprising that the network wanted to keep the franchise going after the original series concluded. Set five years after the original Ben 10 series, Ben 10: Alien Force follows Ben Tennyson's experiences as a teenager, who once again decides to use the Omnitrix.

With his grandpa's mysterious disappearance and villains reappearing around the world, Ben boldly takes on the responsibility of protecting his family and community once again. The show definitely has darker storylines and more mature characterizations compared to the original Ben 10 show, which was apt for the teens who were its target audience. With a whole new set of accessible alien forms through the Omnitrix, it improves upon the original in wildly entertaining ways.

18 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack (2008–2010)

One Of The Most Terrifying Shows Ever Released By Cartoon Network

The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack (2008)

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Comedy

Animation

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

*Availability in US

The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack is an animated television series created by Thurop Van Orman. It follows the nautical exploits of Flapjack, a young boy raised by a talking whale named Bubbie, and his eccentric pirate friend, Captain K'nuckles. Together, they embark on whimsical adventures in search of Candied Island. The show is known for its unique animation style and quirky humor, airing on Cartoon Network from 2008 to 2010.

Cast

Thurop Van Orman , Brian Doyle-Murray , Roz Ryan , Jeff Bennett , Steve Little

Release Date

June 5, 2008

Seasons

3

The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack is not only among the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, but also one of Cartoon Network's genuinely terrifying series. It was created by Thurop Van Orman, who not only voiced Flapjack but also worked with the network as a co-writer on shows like The Powerpuff Girls and The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy. Flapjack follows the adventures of the naive boy, Flapjack, and his friends, Bubbie and Captain K'nuckles.

They spend most of their time on Stormalong Harbor and dream of the fabled Candied Island. Bubbie is an especially lovable character, as the whale is usually the only one who calls out the two leads for their wild antics and a maternal figure who deeply cares about Flapjack. Flapjack isn't for everyone, but its diverse animation styles and surreality secure its place among Cartoon Network's classics.

17 Megas XLR (2004–2005)

A Radical Take On Mecha

Megas XLR (2004)

Animation

Action & Adventure

Comedy

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Megas XLR is an animated television series that aired in 2004, revolving around slacker mechanic Coop and his friends who pilot a modified giant robot to defend Earth from extraterrestrial threats. Set in New Jersey, the show combines elements of comedy and action as Coop, alongside his companions Kiva and Jamie, battles various intergalactic adversaries while coping with the humorous implications of operating a colossal robot in everyday scenarios.

Cast

Wendee Lee , Steve Blum , David DeLuise

Release Date

May 1, 2004

Seasons

2

Viewers may have not realized it at the time, but Megas XLR was a smart parody of some of the best mecha anime from the 2000s, a big part of why it's among the best 2000s Cartoon Network shows. In fact, many consider Megas XLR to be one of many Cartoon Network shows that deserve a reboot. The series is about Coop the mechanic and his best friend, Jamie, as they find and revamp a mecha robot called Megas.

Coop and Jamie end up defending the earth against the Glorft, an evil alien race set on destroying the world. There's time travel, a pilot from the future, and vehicle modifications that more mature audiences can appreciate. Like several other 2000s Cartoon Network shows, Megas XLR took heavy inspiration from anime despite the animation style being distinct — in this case, the rising popularity of Japanese franchises like Gundam Wing.

16 Space Ghost Coast to Coast (1994-2004)

A Subversive Animated Late-Night Talk Show

Space Ghost Coast to Coast

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Space Ghost Coast to Coast is an animated talk show hosted by the titular superhero Space Ghost, who interviews real-life celebrities in a surreal and often comedic manner. The show blends traditional animation with live-action segments, featuring recurring characters like Zorak and Moltar. Originally premiered on Cartoon Network, it developed a cult following and is recognized for its unique format and offbeat humor.

Space Ghost Coast to Coast is one of the adult animated series airing on Cartoon Network that eventually led to the formation of its Adult Swim programming block. However, the original series premiered in 1994 and ended in 1999. When Adult Swim launched, Cartoon Network brought back Space Ghost in the 2000s, and it lasted for three more seasons before moving over to Game Tap Network for its last two.

The plot of the series was abstract. Space Ghost was the host of a hilarious late-night talk show-style series. He interviewed cartoon characters and real-life actors, who often seemed confused when Space Ghost mostly ignored their answers and led the episodes in strange and awkward directions. Even more humorously, the questions and answers frequently didn't align correctly, creating much confusion. The show also offered a spinoff series with The Brak Show, featuring Brak and Zorak from Space Ghost Coast to Coast.

15 Ed, Edd n Eddy (1999-2009)

An Animated Sitcom That Was Ahead Of Its Time

Ed, Edd n Eddy

Animation

Comedy

Family

Three boys with the same name, Ed, Edd, and Eddy, concoct elaborate schemes to scam their peers out of money to buy jawbreakers. Set in a suburban cul-de-sac, their plans usually end in comical disasters, while navigating friendships, rivalries, and the antics of their quirky neighborhood.

Cast

Matt Hill , Samuel Vincent , Tony Sampson , David Paul Grove , Kathleen Barr , Peter Kelamis , Erin Fitzgerald , Janyse Jaud , Keenan Christensen , Jenn Forgie , Tabitha St. Germain

Release Date

January 4, 2009

Seasons

6

Created by Danny Antonucci, Ed, Edd n Eddy was a show that some consider one of the best Cartoon Network cartoons of the '90s, but it only aired for one year in that decade. However, it was around for the entire decade of the 2000s, lasting until 2009. Of all the Cartoon Network shows of the era, few were as culturally influential as Ed, Edd n Eddy, and the antics of the titular characters are still discussed online and made into memes to this day.

In this surprisingly adult cartoon (considering its target audience was still younger viewers), Ed, Edd, and Eddy are the outcasts of the neighborhood and this show was a huge hit because of the bizarre and surrealistic humor. It is these zany characters that made this such a popular Cartoon Network show.

14 Johnny Bravo (1997-2004)

The Most Hopeless Romantic To Ever Grace The Airwaves

Johnny Bravo (1997)

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Johnny Bravo is an animated television series centered on a muscular, egotistical young man named Johnny who is constantly in pursuit of love and adventure. Voiced by Jeff Bennett and created by Van Partible, the show humorously portrays Johnny's failed attempts at romance and his interactions with various characters. The series aired on Cartoon Network, blending slapstick comedy and cultural references to create a unique and entertaining experience.

Cast

Jeff Bennett , Brenda Vaccaro , Mae Whitman , Tom Kenny , Larry Drake

Release Date

July 14, 1997

Long before concepts like "toxic masculinity" entered the cultural lexicon, Cartoon Network's Johnny Bravo explored the extremes of unrestrained male ego and — somehow — managed to make it appropriate for kids. Johnny Bravo got its start in 1997, but it was on for more years as one of the Cartoon Network shows in the 2000s, lasting until 2004. The series had Johnny Bravo as a muscular guy who went on strange adventures with his five-year-old neighbor Suzy. He also often went on adventures with special guests, including the original Batman, Adam West.

Like several Cartoon Network shows from the era, Johnny Bravo felt more geared more toward adults at points, not so much for adult-oriented jokes but for the pop culture humor only adults would get. Not only was this one of the best Cartoon Network shows of the 2000s, but it helped launch the career of Seth MacFarlane, who was a writer and storyboard artist for the show.

13 Aqua Teen Hunger Force (2000-2015, 2023-Present)

Fast Food Heroes Battle Aliens & More

Aqua Teen Hunger Force

Comedy

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

*Availability in US

Aqua Teen Hunger Force is an animated comedy series centered around the adventures of three anthropomorphic fast food items. It was created by Dave Willis and Matt Maiellaro and aired on Adult Swim between 2000 and 2015. In addition to its twelve seasons, there are also a number of shorts and movies based on the show's characters.

Cast

Dave Willis , Carey Means , Dana Snyder

Release Date

December 30, 2000

Seasons

11

Showrunner

Dave Willis

Aqua Teen Hunger Force premiered on Cartoon Network in 2000 on its Adult Swim programming block. The adult animated series follows three anthropomorphic fast food items named Master Shake, Meatwad, and Frylock. They live together and often have adventures with their neighbor, Carl, battle aliens, or go on various adventures thanks to either Master Shake's bad decisions or Frylock's scientific plans.

Creators Dave Willis and Matt Maiellaro wrote and directed every episode, and the series ran for 11 seasons and 139 episodes before ending in 2015. There was even a movie in 2007 called Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters. The series returned in 2023 for a five-episode 12th season, making it the longest-running Cartoon Network Adult Swim series of all time. Throughout its run, the series earned Teen Choice and Annie Award nominations.

12 Teen Titans (2003 – 2006)

The DC Comics Adaptation That Surpassed Its Source Material

Teen Titans

TV-PG

Animation

Comedy

Action

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

*Availability in US

Cast

Greg Cipes , Tara Strong , Khary Payton , Scott Menville , Hynden Walch

Before fans were old enough to really grasp adult-themed superhero movies, they watched Teen Titans. Apart from being among the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, Teen Titans is also one of the most beloved and highly acclaimed cartoons of all time. Notably, HBO Max's Titans is largely based on this show. It spawned something of a reboot too, Teen Titans! Go!, which is one of the most popular shows of the current Cartoon Network era (though the two couldn't be more different in tone).

In the original animated Teen Titans, Robin got the spotlight as an intelligent and cunning leader. Fans also meet Starfire, a bubbly alien princess, and Cyborg, a half-human/half-robot with super strength and tech knowledge. Completing the group was Beast Boy, a joker with animal shapeshifting abilities, and Raven, who uses dark energy and has psionic abilities.

11 Ben 10 (2005–2008)

One Of The Most Commerically Successful Franchises Created By Cartoon Network

Ben 10

Sci-Fi

Where to Watch

• stream
• rent
• buy

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US

Produced by Cartoon Network, the animated series Ben 10 centers around teenage boy Ben Tennyson's adventures with the Omnitrix, a device that allows him to transform into a variety of alien creatures. The original show, first aired on 2006, is the first one in a franchise composed of the series Alien Force, Ultimate Alien, Omniverse, and a 2016 reboot.

Cast

Tara Strong

Release Date

January 1, 2005

Seasons

4

Though the sheer popularity of Ben 10 counts it among the best Cartoon Network shows from the 2000s, the animated series is so much more. Ben 10 revolves around a young boy named Ben, voiced by veteran voice actor, Tara Strong. Ben comes to be the owner of an alien watch called the "Omnitrix." The watch allowed him to transform into Ben 10's alien forms, each giving him a unique ability.

Ben resonated with a lot of viewers who were watching Cartoon Network in the 2000s, as he was still a kid himself — but understood the responsibility of protecting people from evil foes from beyond Earth. The premise was intriguing enough to catch the attention of the Cartoon Network viewership and keep it, making Ben 10 one of the most commercially successful shows the network introduced in the 2000s. It went on to spawn multiple spinoffs, as well as plenty of tie-in merchandise such as action figures and various Ominitrix.