Commentary: Is the line finally drawn for adult animated comedy?
With the popular ‘Smiling Friends’ coming to an end, some worry adult animation could potentially be reaching its final days
By BELLA PETERSON — arts@theaggie.org
On April 12, the final episode of “Smiling Friends” (2020) aired, leaving fans of the series disappointed after showrunners broke their promise of renewing for two more seasons.
The now-beloved comedy made its first appearance on April 1, 2020. While its inception was unannounced on Adult Swim, the animated series was met with largely positive reception from audiences. Since then, “Smiling Friends” has found its way into the hearts of many television viewers.
Although “Smiling Friends” was willingly put to rest early by the creators of the show, questions are left unanswered as to whether or not adult animated comedy as a genre is potentially losing its spark. If one of the most beloved examples can be cancelled on a whim, who’s to say the rest are safe?
Adult animated comedy has been around for a long time: “The Simpsons” continues to run 37-years after its premiere in 1989, alongside “South Park,” which began in 1997.
A highlight of the genre has often been its crude sense of humor — this helped define the lines between animation for younger and older audiences. While adult animation spans far beyond the comedy genre, the medium does seem to depend on its humor for retaining its fanbase. Netflix’s “Bojack Horseman” (2014-2020), for example, is defined as a drama but utilizes comedic instruments to drive its plot forward.
The problem with relying on comedy in adult animation is the constant expectation to remain entertaining, especially considering how many of these shows go on to have 10 or more seasons.
With the necessity of remaining entertaining comes a dependence on relevance. “South Park” often parodies notable current events; conversely, “The Simpsons” is often analyzed due to the phenomenon of the show supposedly predicting the future. Whether it be predicting relative events or reflecting back upon them, it is evident that both shows have managed a consistent routine of keeping up with the times.
Fan reception aside, recognition at award ceremonies plays its own role in the conversation. “The Simpsons” has won 37 Emmys so far in its career. “South Park” has won four Emmys and garnered a total of 18 nominations. To say that adult animated comedies aren’t recognized by the industry or television viewers would be a mistake.
These series are allowed their long runs due to straightforward production processes that ensure longevity. As technology continues to develop and animation is further streamlined, it’s clear that adult animated comedies and dramas alike can continue as long as there’s demand.
Evidently, it seems that now, more than ever, audiences are showing up for adult animated comedy. Between January 2020 and October 2023, American demand for adult animation — excluding Japanese anime — increased 151.6%, according to Parrot Analytics. “Smiling Friends” didn’t end as a result of unpopularity; if anything, the show’s popular three-season run proved that the state of television may always make room for adult animated comedies.
“We got to a point where we just felt like that’s a good spot to end it,” show co-creator Zach Hadel said in a cancellation statement. “We wouldn’t want to be doing more seasons half-hearted or burnt out [...] It’s not fair to the audience [...] We have to know that we’re going to make something that’s great for you guys to enjoy and that we enjoy,”
The creators of “Smiling Friends” seem at peace with their decision to leave the show at three seasons. If “Smiling Friends” can be remembered fondly and with genuine appreciation from its fans, then perhaps other adult animated shows can take notes from Hadel and Michael Cusack — one show ending does not mean death to the entire genre.
Adult animated comedy — from “Bob’s Burgers” (2011) to “Big Mouth” (2017-2025) — has remained a cornerstone of television for a long time now; it's unlikely that it’ll be going anywhere anytime soon. As long as it remains relevant, memorable and especially funny, adult animated comedy will be just fine.
Written by: Bella Peterson — arts@theaggie.org