From the sugar, spice, and everything nice of The Powerpuff Girls to the zany adventures of Ed, Edd, and Eddy, our screens were once filled with the wildest and most wonderful characters. Remember the chaotic antics of Cow and Chicken or the brainy experiments of Dexter’s Laboratory? Those were the days when Saturday mornings were sacred, and we couldn’t wait to jump out of bed to catch the latest episode.
The Winds of Change: Cartoon Network Website Shuts Down
But alas, the winds of change are blowing. In a move that’s left us nostalgic ’90s kids clutching our remote controls a little tighter, Warner Bros. Discovery has announced they’re shutting down the official Cartoon Network website.
Yes, you heard that right—the virtual playground that once let us relive our favourite cartoon moments is going offline. It feels like saying goodbye to an old friend who’s been with us through thick and thin, one zany cartoon at a time.
The announcement came hot on WBD’s financial report, revealing a whopping $9.1 billion write-down in their legacy television unit. As more viewers cut the cord and ditch traditional TV for streaming, cable networks like Cartoon Network have found themselves in choppy waters. The good old days of sitting in front of the TV all day long are fading, as kids (and let’s be honest, adults, too) now prefer to stream their favourite shows on demand.
Where to Find Your Favorite Shows Now
If you visit the Cartoon Network website today, you’ll be greeted with a message that gently nudges you towards Max (yes, a subscription is required).
They also remind you that you can still catch your beloved shows on social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram or through connected devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon. So, while the website is going dark, the cartoons that brought us so much joy are still out there, waiting to be rediscovered.
The Bigger Picture: Cable Networks Struggling in a Streaming World
But Cartoon Network is not the only kid-focused cable network feeling the pinch—many other networks are facing the same fate. Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, and others have seen their viewership numbers plummet as young audiences flock to streaming services. In July 2024, Cartoon Network averaged just 74,000 viewers during its broadcast day, placing it 43rd overall in the rankings. Ouch.
What’s Next for Cartoon Network?
Despite the grim news, there’s no need to panic just yet—Cartoon Network’s TV channel isn’t going anywhere. The channel that launched in October 1992, with its extensive (and classic) animated programming, will continue to be a staple in homes across the country, even if its digital presence is taking a hit.
So, while we bid farewell to the website, let’s hold on to the laughter, memories, and endless hours of fun that Cartoon Network has given us. After all, the shows we grew up with will always have a special place in our hearts.
