Good news for fans of classic cartoons! Checkered Past, a popular block of shows that originally aired on Cartoon Network, is returning to Adult Swim in the new year. The block was a unique and well-received experiment, bringing back beloved shows that weren’t easily available on streaming services. Although it was canceled after two years, its return is a welcome surprise.
After a two-year run of creative programming on Adult Swim, the ‘Checkered Past’ block has returned for the new year. Adult Swim is making some changes to its lineup, both canceling and bringing back shows, and one of those returns is ‘Checkered Past,’ with ‘Dexter’s Laboratory’ kicking things off (as noted by @Swimpedia on X).
Checkered Past Returns to Adult Swim
Checkered Past, which initially concluded on June 27th, is back today with a new episode featuring Dexter’s Laboratory!
— Swimpedia (@swimpedia) December 29, 2025
Checkered Past, the popular programming block, is back on Adult Swim after ending its run earlier this summer. It relaunched on December 29th with weekday showings of Dexter’s Laboratory at 5:00 PM ET. Right now, Dexter’s Laboratory is the only classic show on the block, so it’s uncertain what the future holds for Checkered Past. It could expand with more classic series as the schedule evolves, or this might just be a short-term revival.
Regardless, Checkered Past was very popular during its two years on Adult Swim, so its cancellation came as a shock. The network now has more open slots due to the recent loss of important shows like King of the Hill and Futurama. This programming block was special because it brought back classic Cartoon Network shows that had disappeared from streaming platforms, making it a must-watch for dedicated fans.
Why Dexter’s Laboratory?
It’s easy to see why Dexter’s Laboratory is launching Checkered Past’s new content. The show isn’t available on any streaming services, and its creator, Genndy Tartakovsky, has a new season of Primal coming out in January. This connection feels intentional and well-timed, making us wonder if this focus on nostalgic shows will continue to be successful in the future.
Genndy Tartakovsky doesn’t plan on revisiting Dexter’s Laboratory unless he absolutely has to. He jokingly said in a recent interview that the show might return only when his career stalls and he needs the income. However, a major obstacle is the passing of Christine Cavanaugh, the original voice of Dexter. Tartakovsky believes her voice was essential to the show’s character and feels it would be difficult to replicate without her, unless the show were reimagined in a different way.
What do you think? Leave a comment below and join the conversation now in the ComicBook Forum!
HT – @Swimpedia on X
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2025-12-30 22:12