The 1980s were an incredible time for cartoons and anime, launching many now-famous franchises. One cartoon, instantly recognizable from that decade, first appeared on television 41 years ago. Despite the current trend of remakes and reboots, it hasn’t received a modern update, and fans are eagerly waiting for one.
I still remember when I first discovered ThunderCats 41 years ago! It really launched a franchise that so many of us still adore. The show began with a special two-part premiere on January 23rd, 1985 – “Exodus” and “The Unholy Alliance” – and those episodes instantly introduced me to amazing characters like Lion-O, Monkian, Cheetara, Panthro, Mumm-Ra, and the whole crew that became instantly iconic.
The show quickly became a success, running for four seasons and later being revived as a five-part miniseries called ThunderCats – Ho. The original series concluded with the final episode, The Book of Omens, which aired on September 29, 1989, marking the end of an incredible period for the franchise, though it continued to be popular with fans.
ThunderCats Deserves A Modern Reboot
With the recent return of Masters of the Universe to theaters, fans are starting to ask when ThunderCats might get a new adaptation. There have been efforts to revive the franchise, most notably the 2011 ThunderCats animated series on Cartoon Network. That show blended Western and Japanese animation styles, with updated character designs and a modern look. Sadly, despite plans for more episodes, it was cancelled after just one season.
In 2020, Cartoon Network debuted a new animated ThunderCats series called ThunderCats Roar. Though the story remained similar to the original, the show had a completely different look and included more comedy. This caused a split among fans, and like the previous reboot, it was cancelled after only one season.
As of 2024, a live-action reboot with director Adam Wingard was planned, but hasn’t seen much progress beyond initial development. However, with the recent theatrical release of Masters of the Universe, a new reboot feels more possible than ever.
Similar to the recent revival of Masters of the Universe, ThunderCats is also getting a modern update. The key to success will likely be staying true to what fans loved about the original series – its iconic look and memorable characters. Masters of the Universe seems to be leading the way in how classic cartoons are adapted today, focusing on the grand ideas and personalities that made them special. The same approach should work for ThunderCats, with updates being welcome, but ultimately bringing the original’s spirit to a new generation. Hopefully, this reboot happens soon.
What do you think? Leave a comment below and join the conversation now in the ComicBook Forum!
Read More
- Best Controller Settings for ARC Raiders
- Donkey Kong Country Returns HD version 1.1.0 update now available, adds Dixie Kong and Switch 2 enhancements
- How To Watch A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms Online And Stream The Game Of Thrones Spinoff From Anywhere
- Ashes of Creation Rogue Guide for Beginners
- PS5’s Biggest Game Has Not Released Yet, PlayStation Boss Teases
- When to Expect One Piece Chapter 1172 Spoilers & Manga Leaks
- Hytale: Upgrade All Workbenches to Max Level, Materials Guide
- New Netflix Movie Based on Hugely Popular Book Becomes An Instant Hit With Over 33M Hours Viewed
- Sega Insider Drops Tease of Next Sonic Game
- Darkwood Trunk Location in Hytale
2026-01-24 10:40