The Most Popular Old Cartoon, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the old cartoon you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 2, 2024 06:44
Cartoons have a unique way of capturing the hearts of audiences, becoming cultural touchstones that evoke nostalgia and joy. Amid the countless series from the past, determining which ones continue to capture imaginations has value. This provides insights into what qualities make these cartoons enduring favorites, and helps new viewers find beloved classics that they might otherwise overlook.
By participating in voting for your favorite old cartoons, you contribute to a collective celebration of animation's golden age. This dynamic tally reflects not just personal preferences, but also a broader appreciation for the artistry and storytelling of yesteryears’ animated gems. Your vote helps shape a list that guides newcomers and enthusiasts alike in discovering and re-discovering the classics that have brought laughter and wisdom generation after generation.
What Is the Most Popular Old Cartoon?
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137votes
Zarateman · CC0This classic cartoon revolves around the never-ending chase between a cat and mouse, and it remains one of the most beloved cartoons of all time.Tom and Jerry is a beloved animated cartoon series that revolves around the comedic rivalry between a house cat named Tom and a clever mouse named Jerry. The cartoons are known for their slapstick humor and the constant chases and chaotic battles between the two characters.- Genre: Comedy
- Format: Animated television series
- Release Date: 1940
- Running Time: Usually around 7 minutes
- Number of Episodes: 164 theatrical shorts
Tom and Jerry in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most beloved cartoon
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Hanna-Barbera cartoon
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular duo
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular character on Cartoon Network
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular cartoon in India
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular Cartoon Network show
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218votes
Warner Bros. Entertainment · Public domainLooney Tunes
Warner Bros. AnimationThis series features beloved characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig, and it has been entertaining audiences since the 1930s.Looney Tunes is a well-known animated series that features a variety of comedic and slapstick adventures. The series primarily revolves around a large and colorful cast of characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, and many others. Developed by Warner Bros. Animation, Looney Tunes has entertained audiences of all ages since its debut in 1930.- First Episode: 1929
- Genre: Comedy
- Animation Style: Traditional 2D animation
- Running Time: varying, typically 6-10 minutes per short
- Number of Episodes: 1,041
Looney Tunes in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most beloved cartoon
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332votes
Hanna-Barbera · Public domainThis cartoon was the first prime-time animated series and it follows the lives of a prehistoric family living in the town of Bedrock.The Flintstones is a popular animated sitcom produced by Hanna-Barbera. It follows the lives of a modern stone-age family, the Flintstones, who live in the fictional town of Bedrock. The show humorously depicts their daily adventures and challenges, often incorporating satirical commentary on modern life by presenting it through a prehistoric lens.- Genre: Animated sitcom
- Original run: 1960-1966
- Total seasons: 6
- Total episodes: 166
- Main characters: Fred Flintstone, Wilma Flintstone, Barney Rubble, Betty Rubble
The Flintstones in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Hanna-Barbera cartoon
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423votesThis cartoon revolves around a group of teenagers and their talking dog, who solve mysteries involving ghosts and monsters.Scooby-Doo is an iconic animated series that revolves around the adventures of a group of teenagers and their talking dog, Scooby-Doo. They solve mysteries involving ghosts, monsters, and other supernatural beings. The show combines elements of comedy, suspense, and the supernatural, making it beloved by audiences of all ages.
- Original Release Date: September 13, 1969
- Genre: Mystery, Comedy, Animation
- Episodes: Over 400 episodes (as of 2021)
- Running Time: 22 minutes per episode
- Setting: Varies, but typically involves haunted locations or mysterious settings
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512votesThis futuristic cartoon follows the lives of a family living in a world of flying cars, robots, and other high-tech gadgets.The Jetsons is a popular animated TV show created by Hanna-Barbera Productions. It is set in a futuristic world and follows the lives of the Jetson family, living in Orbit City. The show depicted a highly advanced society with flying cars, robot maids, and other futuristic technologies. It originally aired from 1962 to 1963, and later had multiple revivals. The Jetsons is known for its humor, imaginative setting, and iconic characters.
- Genre: Animated sitcom
- Original Run: September 23, 1962 - March 17, 1963
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 24
- Running Time: 22 minutes (approx.)
The Jetsons in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular Hanna-Barbera cartoon
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611votesThis cartoon features a sailor who gains superhuman strength after eating spinach, and it has been entertaining audiences since the 1930s.Popeye is a classic old cartoon that revolves around the adventures of its titular character, Popeye the Sailor. The story follows Popeye, a strong and scrappy sailor who gains superhuman strength by eating cans of spinach, as he navigates through various humorously perilous situations. The cartoon is known for its unique animation style, slapstick comedy, and memorable characters.
- Genre: Animated comedy
- First Appearance: January 17, 1929
- Running Time: Approximately 6 minutes per episode
- Animation Studio: Fleischer Studios (1929-1942), Famous Studios (1942-1957)
- Main Characters: Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto
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713votes
Post of Albania · Public domainMickey Mouse
Walt DisneyThis iconic character is the mascot of Disney and has been entertaining audiences since the 1920s.Mickey Mouse is an iconic cartoon character known for his cheerful and adventurous personality. He is a anthropomorphic mouse with large round ears and typically wears red shorts, large yellow shoes, and white gloves. Mickey Mouse is often seen with his girlfriend Minnie Mouse and his pet dog Pluto. He is the official mascot of The Walt Disney Company and has become one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in popular culture worldwide.- First Appearance: 1928
- Species: Mouse
- Gender: Male
- Signature Colors: Red, Yellow, and Black
- Famous Catchphrase: Oh boy!
Mickey Mouse in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most beloved Disney character
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous mouse
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous cartoon character in the world
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous mascot
- Position 5 of 10 in Most beloved cartoon
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous rat
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82votes
MSGT Jose Lopez Jr., USAF photographer · Public domainThis beloved character is one of the most recognizable cartoon characters of all time, and has been entertaining audiences since the 1940s.Bugs Bunny is a beloved cartoon character known for his wit, humor, and mischievous personality. He is a gray anthropomorphic rabbit who made his debut in the 1940 short film 'A Wild Hare.' Bugs Bunny was recognized as one of the most popular and iconic characters in the golden age of American animation.- First Appearance: A Wild Hare (1940)
- Species: Rabbit
- Fur Color: Gray
- Personality: Witty, mischievous
- Catchphrase: What's up, Doc?
Bugs Bunny in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous bunny
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Looney Tune
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous cartoon character in the world
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous furry in the world
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular character on Cartoon Network
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98votesThis cartoon follows the adventures of a mischievous pink panther and has been entertaining audiences since the 1960s.The Pink Panther is a popular old cartoon that revolves around the adventures of the Pink Panther, a mischievous and loveable cartoon panther character. The series features slapstick comedy and minimal dialogue, relying mostly on visual gags and music to entertain the audience.
- First Appearance: The Pink Panther made his debut in the opening credits of the 1963 live-action film 'The Pink Panther,' directed by Blake Edwards.
- First Cartoon: The first Pink Panther cartoon, 'The Pink Phink,' was released in 1964.
- Animation Studio: The cartoons were produced by DePatie-Freleng Enterprises.
- Running Time: Each episode of The Pink Panther series had an average running time of 6 minutes.
- Theme Song: The memorable theme song of The Pink Panther was composed by Henry Mancini.
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105votesThis cartoon features a bear who lives in Jellystone Park and is always trying to steal picnic baskets.Yogi Bear is a popular animated television character from the Hanna-Barbera cartoon series. He is a talking bear who resides in Jellystone Park, where he constantly tries to steal picnic baskets from unsuspecting visitors. Yogi Bear is known for his wit, charm, and catchy catchphrases, such as 'Smarter than the average bear!'
- First Appearance: Yogi Bear first appeared in 1958 on The Huckleberry Hound Show.
- Main Character: Yogi Bear is the main character of his own self-titled show, 'The Yogi Bear Show', which premiered in 1961.
- Voice Actor: Daws Butler provided the voice for Yogi Bear.
- Famous Sidekick: Boo-Boo Bear is Yogi's loyal sidekick and accompanies him on his various adventures.
- Setting: The cartoon is set in the fictional Jellystone Park, a parody of Yellowstone National Park.
Yogi Bear in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular Hanna-Barbera cartoon
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular Banana Split character
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular Teddy Bear
Missing your favorite old cartoon?
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular old cartoon
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Viewership and ratingsThe number of people who watched the cartoon during its original airing and the ratings it received can help determine its popularity.
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Longevity and number of episodesThe number of seasons and episodes a cartoon has also reflects its popularity, as it shows that it has been able to maintain viewership for an extended period.
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Cultural impactThe influence a cartoon has had on popular culture, such as catchphrases, characters, and merchandise, can also contribute to its popularity.
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Nostalgia factorThe fondness and warm memories that the cartoon evokes among its viewers can help solidify its popularity over time.
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Awards and recognitionReceiving awards and recognition from industry peers can also be an indicator of a cartoon's popularity and success.
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Characters and character developmentMemorable and well-developed characters can contribute to the popularity of a cartoon series.
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Critical receptionPositive reviews from critics and viewers can also contribute to the popularity of a cartoon.
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International appealThe popularity of a cartoon in different countries can help gauge its overall popularity, as well as indicate its ability to transcend cultural barriers.
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Online presence and engagementIn the digital age, the popularity of a cartoon can be measured by its presence and engagement on social media platforms, fan websites, and online forums.
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TimelessnessA cartoon's ability to remain appealing and relevant to new generations of viewers can contribute to its popularity in the long run.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular old cartoon. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or cartoon is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1930 views
- 160 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each cartoon once every 24 hours. The rank of each cartoon is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular old cartoon
When we think about old cartoons, we often think about the ones we grew up watching on Saturday mornings. These cartoons brought us laughter, excitement, and adventure, and they hold a special place in our hearts. But which old cartoon is the most popular? It's a tough question to answer, as there are so many beloved classics to choose from. From Bugs Bunny to Mickey Mouse, Tom and Jerry to Scooby-Doo, the list goes on and on. One thing is for sure, though - these old cartoons continue to entertain and captivate audiences of all ages, proving that great animation truly stands the test of time.
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