Top 20 Fan-Favorite Animated TV Shows Ever – Must Watch!

Get ready to dive into a world of color, creativity, and pure imagination! Welcome to our countdown of the top 20 fan-favorite animated TV shows ever. These aren’t just your Saturday morning cartoons; they’re the shows that have made us laugh, cry, and occasionally question the laws of physics. From the heartwarming to the hilarious, the fantastical to the downright bizarre, these animated masterpieces have captured our hearts and commandeered our screens. Whether you’re a die-hard animation aficionado or just looking for your next binge-worthy obsession, this list is your golden ticket to a world of animated wonder. So, grab your popcorn, put on your most comfortable pajamas, and prepare to be transported to realms where anything is possible. Let’s get this animated adventure started!
Arcane

Arcane

“Arcane” is an exciting new animated TV show that premiered on November 6, 2021. Set in the contrasting cities of Piltover and Zaun, the series follows two sisters who find themselves on opposite sides of a war between magic technologies and conflicting beliefs. With talented actors like Hailee Steinfeld, Kevin Alejandro, and Jason Spisak bringing the characters to life, this show promises to be a thrilling and visually stunning experience for animation enthusiasts.

Cast: Hailee Steinfeld (Vi (voice)) , Kevin Alejandro (Jayce Talis (voice)) , Jason Spisak (Silco (voice))

Directors: Pascal Charrue, Arnaud Delord

Writers: Ash Brannon, Christian Linke, Conor Sheehy, Alex Yee, Amanda Overton

Tags: magic, female friendship, battle, based on video game, death in family, lgbt, adult animation, warrior, broken family, origin, power, animation

One Piece

One Piece

“One Piece” is an epic animated TV show that has captured the hearts of millions since its release in 1999. It follows the thrilling journey of Monkey D. Luffy, a young boy with a rubbery body, as he sets out to find the legendary treasure known as the “One Piece” and become the King of the Pirates. With a talented cast of voice actors and a captivating storyline filled with adventure, action, and friendship, this show has rightfully earned its place among the 20 best voted animation TV shows of all time.

Cast: Mayumi Tanaka (Monkey D. Luffy (voice)) , Kazuya Nakai (Roronoa Zoro (voice)) , Akemi Okamura (Nami (voice)) , Hiroaki Hirata (Vinsmoke Sanji (voice)) , Kappei Yamaguchi (Usopp (voice)) , Yuriko Yamaguchi (Nico Robin (voice)) , Ikue Otani (Tony Tony Chopper (voice)) , Kazuki Yao (Franky (voice)) , Cho (Brook (voice)) , Katsuhisa Houki (Jinbe (voice)) , Tessyo Genda (Kaido (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Eiichiro Oda

Tags: sea, friendship, ship, treasure, fight, ocean, boat, friends, pirate, based on manga, straw hat, shounen, anime

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is a captivating animation TV show that follows the journey of Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers who pay a heavy price for their reckless use of alchemy. With Ed missing limbs and Al’s soul trapped in a suit of armor, they embark on a quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful relic that can restore what they’ve lost. Along the way, they encounter corrupt military forces, mysterious Homunculi, and a host of other intriguing characters. Released in 2009, this show is a must-watch for fans of thrilling adventures and deep bonds between characters.

Cast: Romi Park (Edward Elric (voice)) , Rie Kugimiya (Alphonse Elric (voice)) , Shin-ichiro Miki (Roy Mustang (voice)) , Kenta Miyake (Scar (voice)) , Fumiko Orikasa (Riza Hawkeye (voice)) , Megumi Takamoto (Winry Rockbell (voice)) , Hidekatsu Shibata (King Bradley (voice)) , Mamoru Miyano (Ling Yao (voice)) , Kenji Utsumi (Louis Armstrong (voice)) , Biichi Satoh (Heimans Breda (voice)) , Takashi Hikida (Zampano (voice)) , Minami Takayama (Envy (voice)) , Yoko Soumi (Olivier Mira Armstrong (voice)) , Masayuki Omoro (Tim Marcoh (voice)) , Masuo Amada (Edison (voice)) , Hiroyuki Yoshino (Zolf J. Kimblee (voice)) , Unsho Ishizuka (Van Hohenheim (voice)) , Kazuki Yao (Yoki (voice)) , Tomoyuki Shimura (Jerso (voice)) , Yuichi Nakamura (Greed (voice)) , Yuko Sanpei (Pride (voice)) , Kaori Nazuka (Maria Ross (voice)) , Kenji Hamada (Vato Falman (voice)) , Ryuuzaburou Ootomo (Buccaneer (voice)) , Tetsu Siratori (Gluttony (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Hiroshi Ohnogi, Hiromu Arakawa

Tags: politics, supernatural, conspiracy, steampunk, based on manga, alchemy, alchemist, shounen, anime

Rick and Morty

Rick and Morty

“Rick and Morty” is a critically acclaimed animated TV show that has made it to the list of the 20 best voted animation TV shows of all time. It follows the adventures of a mentally-unbalanced yet brilliant old man named Rick, who reconnects with his family and takes his young grandson Morty on mind-bending adventures across space and alternate dimensions. With an unstable family life and the chaos caused by these escapades, Morty finds himself navigating through distressing situations at home and school. The show, starring Chris Parnell, Spencer Grammer, and Sarah Chalke, first premiered on December 2, 2013.

Cast: Chris Parnell (Jerry Smith (voice)) , Spencer Grammer (Summer Smith (voice)) , Sarah Chalke (Beth Smith (voice))

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Writers:

Tags: time travel, grandfather, mad scientist, dysfunctional family, alcoholism, alien, scientist, adult animation, father figure, machinist, multiple dimensions, spaceship

Avatar: The Last Airbender

Avatar: The Last Airbender

“Avatar: The Last Airbender” is an epic animation TV show that takes place in a war-torn world filled with elemental magic. The story follows a young boy who discovers he is the Avatar and embarks on a dangerous quest to fulfill his destiny and bring peace to the world. With a talented cast of voice actors and its release in 2005, this show has become one of the best voted animation TV shows of all time.

Cast: Zach Tyler (Aang (voice)) , Mae Whitman (Katara (voice)) , Jack De Sena (Sokka (voice)) , Dante Basco (Zuko (voice)) , Jessie Flower (Toph Beifong (voice)) , Greg Baldwin (Iroh (voice)) , Dee Bradley Baker (Appa / Momo (voice)) , Grey DeLisle (Azula (voice)) , Cricket Leigh (Mai (voice)) , Olivia Hack (Ty Lee (voice)) , André Sogliuzzo (Hakoda (voice))

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Writers:

Tags: friendship, martial arts, saving the world, magic, monk, asia, child hero, reincarnation, honor, destiny

Invincible

Invincible

“Invincible” is an exciting new animated TV show that premiered on March 25, 2021. It follows the story of Mark Grayson, a regular teenager who discovers he has superpowers just like his incredibly powerful superhero father. With a star-studded cast including Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, and J.K. Simmons, this show promises to be a thrilling and action-packed adventure into the world of superheroes and their legacies.

Cast: Steven Yeun (Mark Grayson / Invincible (voice)) , Sandra Oh (Debbie Grayson (voice)) , J.K. Simmons (Nolan Grayson / Omni-Man (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, Ryan Ottley

Tags: superhero, anti hero, gore, based on comic, adult animation, death of superhero, teen superhero

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” is an incredible animation TV show set in Japan during the Taisho Period. It follows the story of Tanjiro, a kindhearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is brutally murdered by a demon, leaving his sister Nezuko transformed into one. Determined to save his sister and avenge his family, Tanjiro embarks on a thrilling journey filled with action, emotion, and a quest for justice. With a talented cast and its release in 2019, this show has quickly become one of the best voted animation TV shows of all time.

Cast: Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro Kamado (voice)) , Akari Kito (Nezuko Kamado (voice)) , Kengo Kawanishi (Muichiro Tokito (voice)) , Kana Hanazawa (Mitsuri Kanroji (voice)) , Nobuhiko Okamoto (Genya Shinazugawa (voice)) , Toshio Furukawa (Hantengu (voice)) , Kohsuke Toriumi (Gyokko (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Koyoharu Gotouge

Tags: sibling relationship, swordplay, magic, supernatural, undead, coming of age, tragedy, based on manga, demon, mutilation, dark fantasy, anachronism, shounen, anime, time skip, taisho, lacrimation

My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia

“My Hero Academia” is a highly acclaimed animation TV show that has made it to the list of the 20 best voted of all time. Set in a world where most people possess superpowers, the story revolves around Izuku, a normal boy who dreams of becoming a hero. Join him as he faces intense competition and takes on the challenging provisional license exam. With a talented cast of lead actors and its release in 2016, this show is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of thrilling and action-packed adventures.

Cast: Daiki Yamashita (Izuku Midoriya (voice)) , Nobuhiko Okamoto (Katsuki Bakugo (voice)) , Kenta Miyake (All Might (voice)) , Ayane Sakura (Ochako Uraraka (voice)) , Kaito Ishikawa (Tenya Iida (voice)) , Yuki Kaji (Shoto Todoroki (voice)) , Aoi Yuki (Tsuyu Asui (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Kohei Horikoshi, Yosuke Kuroda

Tags: hero, saving the world, competition, superhero, heroism, training, bullying, revenge, school, tournament, based on manga, fighting, super power, super villain, high school rivalry, school life, shounen, anime, abusive father

The Owl House

The Owl House

“The Owl House” is a delightful animated fantasy-comedy series that premiered in 2020. It follows the adventures of Luz, a confident teenage girl who accidentally discovers a portal to a magical world. There, she befriends a rebellious witch named Eda and a cute little warrior named King. Despite lacking magical abilities, Luz becomes Eda’s apprentice at the Owl House, pursuing her dream of becoming a witch and finding an unexpected family along the way. With talented lead actors like Sarah-Nicole Robles and Alex Hirsch, this show has earned its place among the 20 best voted animation TV shows of all time.

Cast: Sarah-Nicole Robles (Luz Noceda (voice)) , Alex Hirsch (King / Hooty (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: witch, magic, school of witchcraft, apprentice, portal, witchcraft, lgbt, casting spells, children cartoon, owl, magic land

Regular Show

Regular Show

Release Date: 2010-09-06

Genres: Animation, Comedy

“Regular Show” is a hilarious and surreal animated TV show that follows the misadventures of two best friends, Mordecai and Rigby. These quirky groundskeepers, a blue jay and a hyperactive raccoon, constantly find themselves in outrageous situations as they try to entertain themselves while avoiding their boss’s disapproval. With a talented cast including J.G. Quintel, William Salyers, Mark Hamill, and more, this fan-favorite show has been entertaining audiences since its release in 2010.

Cast: J.G. Quintel (Mordecai / Hi Five Ghost (voice)) , William Salyers (Rigby (voice)) , Mark Hamill (Skips (voice)) , Sam Marin (Benson / Pops / Muscle Man (voice)) , Minty Lewis (Eileen (voice)) , Matthew Mercer (Chance Sureshot / Recap Robot (voice)) , Vanessa Marshall (Toothpick Sally (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Matt Price

Tags: time travel, racoon, slacker, anthropomorphism, park, high school friends

Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan

“Attack on Titan” is a gripping animation TV show that takes us to a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to the terrifying Titans. Set in a city protected by towering walls, the story follows Eren and Mikasa, who witness the destruction of their home and the tragic loss of their mother to these monstrous creatures. Fueled by vengeance, Eren vows to eliminate every Titan and save mankind. With a talented cast and its release in 2013, this thrilling series has captivated audiences worldwide.

Cast: Yuki Kaji (Eren Yeager (voice)) , Yui Ishikawa (Mikasa Ackerman (voice)) , Marina Inoue (Armin Arlert (voice)) , Kisho Taniyama (Jean Kirstein (voice)) , Hiro Shimono (Connie Springer (voice)) , Yoshimasa Hosoya (Reiner Braun (voice)) , Takehito Koyasu (Zeke (voice)) , Ayane Sakura (Gabi Braun (voice)) , Natsuki Hanae (Falco Grice (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Hiroshi Seko, Hajime Isayama

Tags: politics, dystopia, giant monster, coup d’etat, based on manga, super power, family tragedy, devastation, against the odds, seinen, shounen, anime, titans, war

Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter

“Hunter x Hunter” is an exciting and captivating animation TV show that follows the journey of twelve-year-old Gon Freecss. Determined to find his long-lost father, who happens to be an elite Hunter, Gon takes on the challenging Hunter Examination. Along the way, he discovers that becoming a Hunter is no easy task, and he must face some of the toughest challenges in the world. With a talented cast and a release date in 2011, this show is definitely worth checking out for any animation enthusiast.

Cast: Megumi Han (Gon Freecss (voice)) , Mariya Ise (Killua Zoldyck (voice)) , Miyuki Sawashiro (Kurapika (voice)) , Keiji Fujiwara (Leorio Paradinight (voice)) , Daisuke Namikawa (Hisoka Morow (voice)) , Banjo Ginga (Isaac Netero (voice)) , Rikiya Koyama (Ging Freecss (voice)) , Chisa Yokoyama (Biscuit Krueger (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: friendship, martial arts, bounty hunter, virtual reality, training, coming of age, remake, revenge, tragedy, organized crime, tournament, bromance, based on manga, fighting, super power, death match, mutilation, reboot, anime

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

“JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” is an epic animation TV show that has captivated audiences since its release in 2012. It follows the intense and long-standing feud between the Joestar Family and a range of evil forces, with the enigmatic Dio Brando and his followers taking center stage. With a talented cast of voice actors and a unique storyline, this show is a must-watch for any animation enthusiast.

Cast: Fairouz Ai (Jolyne Cujoh (voice)) , Daisuke Ono (Jotaro Kujo (voice)) , Mutsumi Tamura (Ermes Costello (voice)) , Mariya Ise (Foo Fighters (voice)) , Atsumi Tanezaki (Emporio Alniño (voice)) , Yuuichirou Umehara (Weather Report (voice)) , Daisuke Namikawa (Narciso Anasui (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Yasuko Kobayashi, Hirohiko Araki

Tags: martial arts, magic, vampire, based on manga, globetrotting, anime, supernatural power, horror

Fighting Spirit

Fighting Spirit

“Fighting Spirit” is an incredible animation TV show that follows the life of Makunouchi Ippo, an ordinary high school student in Japan. After being saved from bullies by a boxer named Takamura, Ippo decides to pursue a career in boxing, finding purpose and direction in his life. With a talented cast of lead actors and its release in 2000, this show promises to take you on an inspiring journey as Ippo strives to perfect his boxing skills.

Cast: Kohei Kiyasu (Ippo Makunouchi (voice)) , Rikiya Koyama (Mamoru Takamura) , Wataru Takagi (Masaru Aoki) , Keiji Fujiwara (Tatsuya Kimura) , Jurota Kosugi (Ralph Anderson) , Hidenobu Kiuchi (David Eagle) , Hisao Egawa (Iwao Shimabukuro) , Shin-ichiro Miki (Ryuhei Sawamura (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Tatsuhiko Urahata

Tags: sports, rags to riches, tournament, based on manga, championship, comradeship, boxing, anime

Death Note

Death Note

“Death Note” is a captivating animation TV show that follows the story of Light Yagami, a brilliant student who stumbles upon a mysterious notebook called the Death Note. With the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it, Light takes it upon himself to rid the world of evil. However, as he delves deeper into his mission, the line between justice and darkness becomes blurred. With a talented cast and a gripping plot, this 2006 release is a must-watch for fans of thrilling and thought-provoking animated series.

Cast: Mamoru Miyano (Light Yagami (voice)) , Shido Nakamura (Ryuk (voice)) , Kappei Yamaguchi (L (voice)) , Aya Hirano (Misa Amane (voice)) , Kimiko Saito (Rem (voice)) , Noriko Hidaka (Near (voice)) , Nozomu Sasaki (Mello (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Toshiki Inoue, Takeshi Obata, Tsugumi Ohba

Tags: police, secret identity, detective, journalism, supernatural, rivalry, sociopath, murder, serial killer, psychological thriller, based on manga, justice, death, shounen, anime, shinigami, time skip, magic book, fantastic, prosocial psychopath, horror

Primal

Primal

“Primal” is an incredible animation TV show that made it to the list of the 20 best voted of all time. It tells the captivating story of a caveman who forms an unlikely friendship with a dinosaur, as they both struggle to survive in a dangerous and unforgiving world. With Aaron LaPlante as one of the lead actors, this thrilling series was released on October 8, 2019, and is definitely worth checking out!

Cast: Aaron LaPlante (Spear (voice))

Directors: Genndy Tartakovsky

Writers:

Tags: survival, prehistory, dinosaur, caveman

Slam Dunk

Slam Dunk

Release Date: 1993-10-16

Genres: Animation, Comedy

“Slam Dunk” is a captivating animation TV show that follows the journey of Sakuragi Hanamichi, a rebellious junior high student who falls head over heels for Haruko Akagi. Determined to win her heart, Sakuragi joins his high school basketball team, despite having no prior experience. As he faces challenges on and off the court, including a talented freshman stealing the spotlight, Sakuragi’s hilarious and heartfelt pursuit of love and basketball unfolds in this 1993 classic. With a talented cast including Takeshi Kusao, Hikaru Midorikawa, and Kiyoyuki Yanada, “Slam Dunk” is a must-watch for fans of sports and romance.

Cast: Takeshi Kusao (Sakuragi Hanamichi (voice)) , Hikaru Midorikawa (Rukawa Kaede (voice)) , Kiyoyuki Yanada (Takenori Akagi (voice)) , Yoku Shioya (Ryota Miyagi (voice)) , Ryotaro Okiayu (Hisashi Mitsui (voice)) , Akiko Hiramatsu (Haruko Akagi (voice)) , Eriko Hara (Ayako (voice)) , Hideyuki Tanaka (Kiminobu Kogure (voice)) , Hisao Egawa (Shin’ichi Maki (voice)) , Hochu Otsuka (Akira Sendo (voice)) , Tomomichi Nishimura (Anzai (voice)) , Toshiyuki Morikawa (Yohei Mito (voice) / Kiyota Nobunaga (voice)) , Yukimasa Kishino (Jun Uozumi (voice)) , Kozo Shioya (Nozomi Takamiya (voice)) , Yuji Mikimoto (Chuichirou Noma (voice)) , Nobutoshi Canna (Yuuji Ookusu (voice)) , Hiromi Nishikawa (Matsui (voice)) , Machiko Toyoshima (Fujii (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Junji Shimizu, Nobuaki Kishima, Takehiko Inoue

Tags: high school, male friendship, basketball, based on comic, high school sports, sport competition, sports league, basketball team, basketball player, shounen, anime, matches

I Am Not an Animal

I Am Not an Animal

Release Date: 2004-05-10

Genres: Animation, Comedy

“I Am Not an Animal” is a hilarious animated comedy series that revolves around the lives of six talking animals. Set in a vivisection unit, their world takes an unexpected turn when they are rescued by animal rights activists. With an all-star cast including Steve Coogan, Julia Davis, Simon Pegg, and more, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a unique and entertaining animated experience. Released in 2004, it has rightfully earned its place among the 20 best voted animation TV shows of all time.

Cast: Steve Coogan (Mark the Bird (voice)) , Julia Davis (Claire the Rat (voice)) , Simon Pegg (Kieron the Cat (voice)) , Kevin Eldon (Hugh the Monkey (voice)) , Amelia Bullmore (Winona the Dog (voice)) , John Shrapnel (Narrator) , Arthur Mathews (Niall the Rabbit (voice))

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: horse, anthropomorphism, monkey

Chainsaw Man

Chainsaw Man

“Chainsaw Man” is an exciting and action-packed animation TV show that follows the story of Denji, a young man with a simple dream of living a peaceful life with his crush. However, his reality takes a dark turn when he is forced by the yakuza to hunt down and kill devils to repay his overwhelming debts. With the help of his trusty pet devil Pochita, Denji embarks on thrilling adventures, ready to do whatever it takes to earn some cash. Starring Kikunosuke Toya, Tomori Kusunoki, Shogo Sakata, and Fairouz Ai, this highly anticipated TV show is set to premiere on October 12, 2022.

Cast: Kikunosuke Toya (Denji (voice)) , Tomori Kusunoki (Makima (voice)) , Shogo Sakata (Aki Hayakawa (voice)) , Fairouz Ai (Power (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Hiroshi Seko, Keisuke Seshimo, Tatsuki Fujimoto

Tags: supernatural, secret organization, chain saw, chainsaw, based on manga, cruelty, devil, demon, combat, shounen, anime, terror

Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun

Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun

Release Date: 2020-01-10

Genres: Animation, Mystery, Comedy

“Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun” is a captivating animation TV show that has made it to the list of the 20 best voted animation TV shows of all time. It follows the story of Nene Yashiro, a first-year high school student with a fascination for the occult. When she summons “Hanako-san of the Toilet” to fulfill her romantic wishes, she unexpectedly becomes his spiritual assistant, embarking on a journey to maintain balance between the spirit and human worlds. Along the way, Nene discovers her own connection to the spirit realm and uncovers the mysterious secrets of Hanako’s past. With a talented cast and an intriguing plot, this show is definitely worth checking out.

Cast: Minako Sato (Aoi Akane (voice)) , Megumi Ogata (Hanako-kun (voice)) , Akari Kito (Nene Yashiro (voice)) , Shoya Chiba (Kou Minamoto (voice)) , Yuma Uchida (Teru Minamoto (voice)) , Chika Anzai (Sakura (voice)) , Takahiro Mizushima (Natsushiko Hyūga (voice)) , Genki Okawa (Lemon Yamabuki (voice)) , Kenjiro Tsuda (Tsuchigomori (voice)) , Daiki Kobayashi (Mitsuba (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Yasuhiro Nakanishi

Tags: supernatural, romance, school, based on manga, spirit, haunted school, anime, academy

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