Television has always been a strong platform for animation, allowing shows to build large and dedicated fanbases over time. Programs like SpongeBob SquarePants, The Simpsons, and South Park have become truly iconic. While many popular shows have their weaker moments, consistently excellent animated series really stand out.
Here are seven animated TV shows that are consistently excellent throughout their entire run. I’ve focused on shows with multiple seasons because it’s harder to keep quality high over a long period. While many shows could be included, these seven stand out as having exceptionally strong seasons from start to finish.
7) Hilda
Even though it might not be as famous as other shows, Hilda is truly one of the greatest animated series ever made. This Netflix show ran for three seasons, totaling 34 episodes plus a movie. Each episode is fantastic, consistently showcasing a gorgeous art style and enchanting atmosphere. You won’t find a single bad episode, making it a must-watch if you haven’t already discovered it.
6) Batman: The Animated Series
Many animated superhero shows have been made for television, but Batman: The Animated Series remains the best. It’s widely considered the definitive Batman adaptation, introducing iconic characters and stories. Over its four seasons and 85 episodes, the show consistently maintained a high level of quality while still managing to evolve.
5) BoJack Horseman
Initially, Netflix’s animated series BoJack Horseman appeared to be a simple, raunchy comedy. However, this was a deliberate tactic to attract viewers before diving into a much deeper and emotionally complex story about the struggles of its main character, a TV star. With six seasons, BoJack Horseman is the longest-running show on this list, and it consistently delivers a compelling and well-crafted narrative throughout, making it a standout Netflix Original.
4) Gravity Falls
Though it only ran for two seasons, Gravity Falls is considered by many to be one of the greatest animated series ever made. It brilliantly combined comedy, genuine emotion, and a constantly evolving storyline, which explains why it remains so popular. Many shows have attempted to replicate its success, but none have matched the impact of this Disney Channel classic.
3) Smiling Friends
Originally a hit for Adult Swim, Smiling Friends will conclude after its third season, which the creators recently announced. It’s disappointing to see it end, as the show was consistently improving and brimming with imaginative new worlds and characters. Many fans consider Smiling Friends one of the funniest shows on television, with its short episodes packed with hilarious moments.
2) Samurai Jack
Created by animation master Genndy Tartakovsky, Samurai Jack on Cartoon Network is widely considered one of the greatest animated action shows ever made. What really sets it apart is its beautiful animation – the character designs and backgrounds are truly stunning. Beyond the visuals, the show’s thoughtful storytelling and exciting action sequences make it consistently impressive from beginning to end.
As a huge animation fan, I’ve always loved Samurai Jack. What really blew me away, though, is how fantastic the final season was. The original four seasons, from 2001-2003, were amazing and everyone loved them. But then Genndy Tartakovsky came back in 2017 to finish Jack’s story with season five. It took a bit of a tonal shift and got into some more complex themes, but honestly, it was just as good as the stuff I remembered from when I was a kid. It totally lived up to the hype!
1) Avatar: The Last Airbender
Many fans consider Avatar: The Last Airbender to be the best animated show ever made, and it’s easy to see why. This Nickelodeon fantasy adventure is consistently amazing, starting strong and improving with each season. Over three seasons and 61 episodes, the show delivers a captivating story, beautiful animation, and a richly developed world – and every episode is enjoyable. While all the shows on this list are reliable, Avatar: The Last Airbender stands out for its consistent improvement.
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2026-03-30 00:41