HBO Max Removes Popular Adult Swim Project

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Adult Swim and HBO Max haven’t always seen eye-to-eye, despite both being owned by Warner Bros. Discovery. Shows like Rick and Morty, Smiling Friends, Primal, and Ha Ha, You Clowns typically premiere on Adult Swim’s cable channel before becoming available on HBO Max. However, not all Cartoon Network shows stay on the streaming service indefinitely, and recently, a popular Adult Swim original from last year was removed. Given the talent involved in creating the show, its departure is unexpected.

Adult Swim’s animated special, “The Elephant,” originally aired on Cartoon Network last December and became available on HBO Max the following day. It’s a unique project, bringing together renowned animators like Patrick McHale (creator of Over the Garden Wall), Ian Jones-Quartey (OK K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes), and Pendleton Ward (Adventure Time) to create a three-part series where each segment stands on its own. Though it’s no longer streaming on HBO Max, you can still watch “The Elephant” on the Adult Swim website or purchase it digitally. While it may not be as popular as Rick and Morty, it’s a creative and worthwhile watch.

The Elephant: Adult Swim’s Dark Horse

When The Elephant was released last year, critics loved it, giving it a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The series features the work of highly respected animators, all known for their skill. Although it’s no longer available on Warner Bros.’ main streaming platform, you can still watch the animated series online.

HBO Max and Paramount+ are joining forces! Following Warner Bros Discovery’s acquisition of Paramount, the two streaming services will combine into one, offering content from both studios. While the future of Adult Swim is uncertain, fans are hoping Cartoon Network’s connection to the platform will remain intact.

2026 is shaping up to be a great year for Adult Swim. The critically acclaimed series Primal just finished its third season, and Rick and Morty will be back for a ninth season later this year. Plus, a new spin-off, President Curtis, will expand the Rick and Morty universe. However, fans were disappointed to learn that Smiling Friends will end after its third season, despite being renewed for two more. Viewers will get two final episodes next month, but the show’s creators unexpectedly cut the series short.

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2026-03-20 20:11