2018 will be sad time.
It was revealed last week that the acclaimed Cartoon Network animated series Adventure Time will be coming to an end. However, new episodes will continue to air until production officially ceases after its ninth season in 2018.
“Adventure Time changed the definition of what a kids’ TV series could be, and it’s had a resounding impact upon popular culture around the world,” says chief content officer for Cartoon Network, Rob Sorcher. “Cartoon Network Studios is proud to have brought together this group of brilliant artists and animators who helped make Adventure Time one of the most critically acclaimed TV series of a generation.”
Created by Pendleton Ward, Adventure Time tells the story of best buddies Jake the dog and Finn the human, as they adventure through the Land of Ooo, a post-apocalyptic future created by nuclear war. Together, the duo often thwart the Ice King’s plans, help Princess Bubblegum, or just hangout with their living video game console BMO.
“Adventure Time was a passion project for the people on the crew, who poured their heart into the art and stories,” added Ward. “We tried to put into every episode something genuine and telling from our lives and make a show that was personal to us and that had jokes, too! I’m really happy that it connected with an audience for so long. It’s a special thing, I think.”
Adventure Time has been lauded by critics and fans of all ages. It has won numerous Emmy awards, as well as a Peabody Award for Children’s Programming. Above all though, the series has been able to appeal to a wide audience through using a variety of powerful themes. The show has always offered goofy fun little kids can enjoy, but it also offers perspective on death, sexuality, and tragedy. Best of all, these themes are never delivered in heavy-handed manner, rather they are given to the audience through clever set ups or music.
Adventure Time is silly, but it also has a beating heart; and we’re going to miss it a lot.
Go watch Adventure Time.
