Top 30 Ranked Cartoon Network Shows from the 2000s

February 9, 2025
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Cartoon Network Entertainment

While Cartoon Network began to establish its presence in the ’90s, it was during the 2000s that the network truly flourished, showcasing a myriad of shows that captivated audiences. This era introduced numerous iconic cartoons that not only thrived in the 2000s but also made their mark in the 2010s, solidifying Cartoon Network’s status as a dominant force in animated programming. From whimsical to edgy, the lineup during this period was groundbreaking, fostering nostalgia and admiration as fans look back at the remarkable content that defined the channel.

The launch of Adult Swim in 2001 marked a pivotal expansion for the network, catering to an adult audience while still keeping its children’s programming innovative. Today, Cartoon Network’s offerings are more limited, leaving many to reminisce about the standout shows from the network’s past, particularly during the revered Golden Age of Animation that the 2000s exemplified.

30 Total Drama (2007–2014)

A Hilarious Animated Satire Of Reality TV Shows

Total Drama remains a flagship title among Cartoon Network’s 2000s offerings, celebrated for its clever parody of reality television. This irreverent series, likened to Survivor, follows a group of teenagers competing in outrageous challenges while navigating complex relationships and cutthroat strategies aimed at survival.

Created by Jennifer Pertsch and Tom McGillis, Total Drama initially premiered in Canada before becoming a staple on Cartoon Network in the U. S.in 2008. The show wonderfully satirizes numerous reality TV tropes, providing audiences with both laughs and relatable moments from the competitive world of reality competition.

29 Much Struggle (2002–2005)

Animated Luchador Adventures

In 2002, Cartoon Network embraced the colorful world of Mexican wrestling with Mucha Lucha, an animated series that was ground-breaking as the first Western animated show centered on professional wrestling. Set in the vibrant town of Luchaville, the series featured characters donned in luchador masks and unique wrestling moves.

This playful take on wrestling introduced audiences to characters like Rikochet and Buena Girl, who trained at the Foremost World-Renowned International School of Lucha. While somewhat overshadowed by other hits of the era, Mucha Lucha’s exaggerated representation of Lucha Libre adds it to the essential viewing list of Cartoon Network’s rich array of content.

28 Chowder (2007–2010)

The Cartoon Network Show That Took Risks With Its Humor

Chowder, released in 2007, emerged as a unique entry in the evolution of animated programming, daring to maintain a level of risqué humor not often seen in children’s shows. The series follows Chowder, an eccentric aspiring chef who often finds himself in absurd scenarios due to his insatiable hunger and impulsive nature.

Despite its vibrant and whimsical style, Chowder often delves into humor that may not resonate well with today’s standards of children’s animation, making it a complex, albeit enjoyable, viewing experience.

27 The Cramp Twins (2001–2004)

Sibling Rivalry Taken To The Extreme

Bringing to life the misadventures of the quirky fraternal twins Lucien and Wayne Cramp, The Cramp Twins utilized a distinctive animation style set against the backdrop of the quirky Soap City. The characters were propelled into bizarre, humorous situations largely due to their contrasting personalities and the colorful residents around them.

With a blend of imaginative storytelling and quirky humor, this series often speaks to the sibling dynamics while showcasing a wide range of comedic situations—a hallmark of Cartoon Network shows from this era.

26 Time Squad (2001–2003)

Historical Hijinks And Outrageous Sci-Fi Abound

Time Squad revolutionized history-based storytelling with humor and creativity, following the misadventures of characters tasked with maintaining the flow of time. This delightful series allowed viewers to journey through history, meeting iconic figures like Abraham Lincoln during their outrageous escapades.

Although not available for streaming now, the show holds a unique charm and imaginative depth that remains endearing to fans of its innovative combination of humor and educational elements.

25 Xiaolin Showdown (2003–2006)

Anime Tropes Repackaged With A Cartoon Network Aesthetic

Xiaolin Showdown tapped into the booming interest in anime during the 2000s, creatively blending martial arts and magic within an engaging narrative. The show follows young warriors Omi, Kimiko, and their allies engaging in epic battles to protect the mystical Shen Gon Wu artifacts.

This series not only entertained but also introduced moral themes, highlighting the temptation of power for personal gain, all wrapped in adventure and vibrant visuals.

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

A Genuinely Emotional And Heartwarming Show

Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, crafted by Craig McCracken, symbolizes a landmark moment for surreal storytelling at Cartoon Network. This heartwarming series follows a young boy, Mac, and his imaginary friend Bloo, exploring the complexities of friendship in a world where imaginary companions are real.

The narrative is filled with both humor and touching moments, showcasing the struggles of abandonment while leading to funny yet poignant adventures, making it a beloved entry in Cartoon Network’s history.

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

The Grim Reaper Gets Thwarted By A Little Girl

One of Cartoon Network’s most memorable creations, The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy, features a trio of characters—Billy, Mandy, and Grim. The show explores humorously dark themes where Grim, the personification of death, becomes the reluctant servant of two children after losing a limbo game.

The unique premise turned dark themes into comedic experiences while offering some unforgettable, quirky adventures, making it a classic that fans still cherish today.

22 Duck Dodgers (2003–2005)

Looney Tunes Goes Full Sci-Fi

Duck Dodgers, a spin on the classic Looney Tunes characters, transported viewers into a comedic sci-fi universe, exploring futuristic themes through the eyes of Daffy Duck. The series chronicles Duck Dodgers’ misadventures as he navigates space, encountering other well-known characters wrapped in clever parodies of beloved franchises.

This unique adaptation retains the humor and wit of classic cartoons while providing fresh content for both children and nostalgic adult fans alike.

21 Codename: Kids Next Door (2002–2008)

The Coolest Group Of Secret Agents On Cartoon Network

No retrospective of Cartoon Network’s successes is complete without Codename: Kids Next Door. This imaginative series redefined children’s cartoons by introducing five kids as secret agents with high-tech gadgets, waging a war against adult tyranny.

With elements of adventure, humor, and camaraderie, this series introduced the importance of teamwork and rebellion against conformity—all through its memorable and adventurous plotlines.

20 Sealab 2021 (2000-2005)

A Parody Of 1972’s Sealab 2020

Pioneering adult animation before the establishment of Adult Swim, Sealab 2021 utilized a plethora of absurdist humor drawn from the 1972 original series. Combining existing footage with new comedic scripts, this series earned a devoted following during its run.

The episodic nature of the show allowed for creative storytelling, leading to strange and unpredictable humor, ultimately cementing its position in cartoon history.

19 Ben 10: Alien Force (2008–2010)

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

The Ben 10 franchise expanded with Ben 10: Alien Force, set five years after the original series. This sequel not only brought back familiar faces but also introduced new dynamics and darker themes, appealing to its older teenage audience.

Incorporating thrilling adventures, revamped alien transformations, and mature character arcs, the series captivated viewers while effectively maintaining the core essence of its predecessor—a testament to the franchise’s enduring popularity.

18 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack (2008–2010)

The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack, created by Thurop Van Orman, showcased the escapades of Flapjack with his friends in the uniquely animated world of Stormalong Harbor. This series was distinguished by its quirky aesthetics and narrative style, appealing to a variety of demographics.

Flapjack, along with the lovable whale Bubbie and the rugged Captain K’nuckles, embark on whimsical quests in search of the fabled Candied Island. Its unusual charm and diverse animation styles ensure its revered status in the realm of animation.

17 Megas XLR (2004–2005)

A Radical Take On Mecha

Some viewers might not have recognized Megas XLR as a clever satire of the popular mecha genre. This series features Coop, a mechanic who stumbles upon a formidable mecha robot and modifies it for his own adventures against alien invaders.

Blending humor, time travel, and futuristic confrontations, Megas XLR retains a unique appeal while celebrating the themes of classic mecha anime, resulting in a fan favorite that many still wish to see return.

16 Space Ghost Coast to Coast (1994-2004)

A Subversive Animated Late-Night Talk Show

Originally airing from 1994, Space Ghost Coast to Coast evolved into a cultural phenomenon, reinventing the late-night talk show format through animated storytelling. Coming to the forefront during the Adult Swim era, this show featured the titular character interviewing guests in absurd and surreal conversations.

The series embraced a non-standard approach to comedy, blending awkwardness with hilarious scenarios, leading to memorable moments that made it a legendary part of Cartoon Network’s programming history.

15 Ed, Edd n Eddy (1999-2009)

An Animated Sitcom That Was Ahead Of Its Time

Created by Danny Antonucci, Ed, Edd n Eddy is regarded as one of the network’s standout shows of the late ’90s and 2000s. Following the misdeeds and escapades of three neighborhood boys, this animated sitcom captured the essence of childhood creativity and mischief.

The show maintained a unique charm, blending silly humor with relatable experiences, ensuring that its legacy is discussed and revisited even years after its conclusion.

14 Johnny Bravo (1997-2004)

The Most Hopeless Romantic To Ever Grace The Airwaves

Before discussions of contemporary masculinity, Johnny Bravo explored unfiltered male ego with humorous results. This animated gem, which aired until 2004, showcased Johnny’s misadventures ranging from egotistical antics to outrageous encounters with celebrity guests.

Its clever satire and pop culture references often appealed to an adult audience, distinguishing it as a significant title in the network’s history and helping to launch Seth MacFarlane’s career during its early development.

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

Fast Food Heroes Battle Aliens & More

Surging to popularity with its unique premise, Aqua Teen Hunger Force follows anthropomorphic fast food characters—Master Shake, Meatwad, and Frylock—as they embark on peculiar adventures, primarily fueled by Master Shake’s absurd decisions.

First airing on Adult Swim in 2000, it has since earned the title of the longest-running series on the network, captivating audiences with its bold humor and unconventional storytelling while earning accolades and sustaining its influence over the years.

12 Teen Titans (2003 – 2006)

The DC Comics Adaptation That Surpassed Its Source Material

Within the ranks of the best Cartoon Network shows, Teen Titans stands out as a significant adaptation, bringing beloved DC characters to life while engaging younger viewers with compelling storylines and mature themes. This series paved the way for future superhero narratives on television, impacting the genre significantly.

The show introduced iconic characters such as Robin, Starfire, and Raven, creating a rich tapestry of relationships and moral dilemmas that resonated with audiences of all ages.

11 Ben 10 (2005–2008)

One Of The Most Commercially Successful Franchises Created By Cartoon Network

Ben 10 captured the imaginations of viewers, introducing a unique story of a young boy who acquires the Omnitrix, an alien device full of transformative powers. The series combined action and adventure with relatable themes of growth and responsibility, ultimately becoming one of the network’s flagship franchises.

This dynamic blend of entertainment resonated deeply with audiences, resulting in various spinoffs and extensive merchandise, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Ben 10 series in the realm of animated storytelling.