Several social media users on X (formerly Twitter) got a jolt when they saw #RIPCartoonNetwork trending on the micro-blogging site. Is Cartoon Network, the channel that brought us childhood favourites like Dexter's Laboratory, and Powerpuff Girls, shutting down? What's the story behind the trend?
How The Trend Started
The trend started with an animation video posted by an X account 'Animation Workers Ignited'. The video that suggested Cartoon Network was dead highlighted the struggles faced by other animation studios as well. It highlighted how animators worked even during COVID times and were then unceremoniously laid off.
The video blamed the situation on corporate greed, with executives prioritising financial gain over the well-being of the industry's creative workforce. To raise awareness, the video encouraged viewers to share their favourite Cartoon Network shows using the #RIPCartoonNetwork hashtag.
Cartoon Network is dead?!?!
July 8, 2024
Spread the word about what's at stake for animation!!! Post about your favorite Cartoon Network shows using #RIPCartoonNetwork
Active members of TAG can help by filling out your survey! Today (7/8) is the last day! pic.twitter.com/dHNMvA1q0AFans React
Many fans, initially unaware of the video's true purpose, were confused and upset. Social media was flooded with nostalgic posts reminiscing about cartoons. However, the trend also sparked discussions about the challenges faced by animators. Here are some posts on X.
#RIPCartoonNetwork Started With This 👀🤔🎬
July 9, 2024
The video goes on to explain how animation demand has skyrocketed, yet the animators, lost their jobs…. 😨
Rumors that Cartoon Network is “shutdown” are false. 🙊
Although the studio does seem to be in decline 😢📉 pic.twitter.com/XgppDfvDMmIt breaks my heart into pieces to see where it's at right now in animation. I loved working on cartoons and I miss it so much. It's been over a year and I just wish things will get better soon. #ripcartoonnetwork 💔 https://t.co/7rQs7qZR6x
July 9, 2024This one's personal cuz I moved all the way across the country and chose an apartment right down the street from CN for an easy commute only to lose the job and have the building close down not long after. Still unemployed too! It's great! https://t.co/1Iwn77wlbk pic.twitter.com/fvNmAI8tet
July 9, 2024#RIPCartoonNetwork pic.twitter.com/42WGzJwuXh
July 9, 2024#RIPCartoonNetwork
July 9, 2024
It was a good era❤️ pic.twitter.com/iDzuRp1EfBIt is really end of era on the iconic childhood memories in Cartoon Network💔
July 9, 2024
#RIPCartoonNetwork #connect pic.twitter.com/ugE7nxFuxCTruth Behind #RIPCartoonNetwork Trend
No. Cartoon Network is not shutting down. The #RIPCartoonNetwork trend is a way to draw attention to the challenges the animation industry is facing. While the channel's programming style may have shifted in recent years, it remains operational.
The 'Animation Workers Ignited' handle urges viewers to consider the human cost of corporate decisions that prioritise profit over creative freedom and artist well-being. Cartoon Network is not dead, but the hashtag is aimed at serving as an awareness campaign.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
