12 Cartoons That Have Surprisingly Adult Jokes: Cartoons are often designed to entertain children, but many also include humor that appeals to adults. These subtle jokes and references can fly over the heads of younger viewers but provide a wink and a nod to the older audience. Here are 12 cartoons known for slipping in surprisingly adult humor.

1. SpongeBob SquarePants (1999–Present)

SpongeBob SquarePants, Spongebob and Patrick. Image curtesy: Nickelodeon

Overview: Set in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom, the series follows the cheerful sea sponge SpongeBob and his array of friends, including Patrick Star and Squidward Tentacles.

Adult Jokes:

“Sailor Mouth” Episode: SpongeBob and Patrick learn a “bad word” (censored with dolphin sounds) and use it liberally, humorously highlighting the misuse of profanity.
Subtle Innuendos: Occasional lines like “Is mayonnaise an instrument?” appeal to an older sense of absurd humor.

2. Animaniacs (1993–1998, 2020–Present)

Overview: The Warner siblings—Yakko, Wakko, and Dot—embark on various comedic adventures, often breaking the fourth wall and engaging in satirical humor.

Adult Jokes:

“Fingerprints” Pun: In one sketch, Yakko asks Dot to “fingerprint,” and she returns holding the musician Prince. When he clarifies, she responds with, “I don’t think so.”
Historical and Cultural References: Many jokes reference classic films, politics, and literature that resonate more with adults.

3. Rocko’s Modern Life (1993–1996)

Overview: Follows Rocko, a wallaby navigating life in the surreal city of O-Town alongside his friends Heffer and Filburt.

Adult Jokes:

“Chokey Chicken” Restaurant: The name of Rocko’s favorite eatery is a double entendre.
Phone Operator Scene: Rocko works as a telephone operator with suggestive dialogue like “Oh baby, oh baby,” which goes unnoticed by younger viewers.

4. The Powerpuff Girls (1998–2005)

Overview: Three super-powered kindergarten girls—Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup—protect Townsville from various villains.

Adult Jokes:

Ms. Bellum’s Character: The Mayor’s assistant is portrayed with her face rarely shown, emphasizing other features, which adds a layer of adult humor.
Subtle References: Episodes include puns and situations that adults can appreciate on a different level.

5. Tiny Toon Adventures (1990–1992)

Overview: Features young cartoon characters attending Acme Looniversity to become the next generation of Looney Tunes stars.

Adult Jokes:

Pop Culture Parodies: The show frequently spoofs movies and celebrities, including ones from decades past.
Witty Wordplay: Some jokes involve puns and references that are more likely to be caught by adults.

6. Shrek (2001 Film Series)

Overview: An ogre named Shrek goes on a quest that parodies classic fairy tales, accompanied by a talking donkey.

Adult Jokes:

Lord Farquaad’s Name: Sounds like a cheeky play on words when said quickly.
Overcompensation Joke: Shrek comments on the size of Farquaad’s castle, implying he’s compensating for something.

7. Phineas and Ferb (2007–2015)

Overview: Two inventive stepbrothers create extravagant projects during their summer vacation, while their pet platypus is a secret agent.

Adult Jokes:

Clever Dialogue: Contains witty banter and sophisticated humor that adults can enjoy.
Cultural References: Parodies and nods to classic films and music that may resonate more with older viewers.

8. Hey Arnold! (1996–2004)

Overview: Centers on Arnold, a fourth-grader with a football-shaped head, and his experiences in a city neighborhood.

Adult Jokes:

Background Details: Store signs and advertisements often contain puns or adult-oriented humor.
Complex Themes: Episodes address topics like poverty and immigration, offering depth for adult viewers.

9. Rugrats (1991–2004)

Overview: Follows a group of toddlers from their perspective, exploring the world around them.

Adult Jokes:

Grandpa’s Jokes: Grandpa Lou occasionally makes comments or watches shows that hint at adult content.
Double Entendres: Some dialogue includes innocent phrases that have alternate meanings for adults.

10. Adventure Time (2010–2018)

Overview: Finn the Human and Jake the Dog embark on adventures in the post-apocalyptic Land of Ooo.

Adult Jokes:

Complex Relationships: Explores themes of love and loss that resonate with older audiences.
Subtle Innuendos: Includes lines and scenarios that have deeper meanings for adults.

11. The Fairly OddParents (2001–2017)

The Fairly OddParents, Image: Nickelodeon, Source: Apple TV

Overview: Timmy Turner is granted fairy godparents who can grant wishes, leading to humorous mishaps.

Adult Jokes:

Clever Puns: Uses wordplay that children might miss but adults find amusing.
Cultural References: Alludes to movies, TV shows, and celebrities familiar to older viewers.

12. Zootopia (2016 Film)

Overview: In a city inhabited by anthropomorphic animals, a rookie rabbit cop and a sly fox work together to uncover a conspiracy.

Adult Jokes:

Breaking Bad Reference: Features characters and scenes that parody the adult-oriented TV show.
Play on Words: Includes jokes about animal biology and societal roles that have layered meanings.