CARTOON Network has spoken out following claims it could be heading for a shutdown.

Rumors that the beloved television channel could be closing down rapidly spread online.

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Rumors of a Cartoon Network shutdown spread across social mediaCredit: Alamy

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Fans of the beloved channel expressed their thoughts on XCredit: Photo Illustration by Rafael Henrique/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images – Getty

SOCIAL MEDIA STORM

Rumors of Cartoon Network’s demise began on social media with the Animation Workers Ignited X account, @AWorkersIgnited.

On July 8, 2024, the account shared a post that said, “Cartoon Network is dead?!?!”

“Spread the word about what’s at stake for animation!!! Post about your favorite Cartoon Network shows using #RIPCartoonNetwork.”

The post has since amassed over 8 million views, and #RIPCartoonNetwork began trending on the social media platform.

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User Ghosty wrote, “It is really end of era on the iconic childhood memories in Cartoon Network. #RIPCartoonNetwork.”

A fan named Redd posted, “Cartoon Network must be saved at all costs. #RIPCartoonNetwork.”

User Pizza Dad shared a clip of Steve Carell as Michael Scott from The Office and wrote, “Me trying to understand why a network of cartoons would get canceled #RipCartoonNetwork.”

DENYING THE RUMORS

Cartoon Network — which is owned by Warner Brothers Discovery — released a statement denying the rumors and confirmed they will continue to produce content.

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According to The Economic Times, the channel said, “Cartoon Network would like to clarify that there is no truth to the speculation that the network or the studio is shutting down.

“With a number of recently announced greenlights, we remain committed to continually investing in innovative content that entertains and inspires our viewers across the globe.”
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Cartoon Network confirmed it is not shutting down despite the online rumorsCredit: Photo Illustration by Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images -Getty

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Warner Brothers owns the popular Cartoon Network ChannelCredit: Photo Illustration by Rafael Henrique/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images – Getty

INDUSTRY TROUBLES

While Cartoon Network is not shutting down, the claims have called attention to real troubles within the entertainment industry regarding animation studios.

On July 9, 2024, Cartoon Base posted, “The original Cartoon Network Studios shut down.

“Cartoon Network isn’t dead as a brand and channel, but many projects got canceled and a LOT of employees were let go due to outsourcing and corporate mergers. #RIPCartoonNetwork.”

However, according to Mass Live, there have been no reports of Cartoon Network laying off workers since 2022.

Per the outlet, at the time, it was reported that Warner Brothers moved to let go of 82 employees and dismantle 43 open positions from its television division.

In May 2024, Cartoon Brew claimed that the animation industry was in trouble, citing a YouTube video from industry employee Zach Mulligan.

According to the outlet, the industry is heading for a “collapse” due to streaming, employee layoffs, outsourcing, company mergers and acquisitions, and AI.

CARTOON CLASSICS

Cartoon Network has produced a host of hit animated shows over the years.

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Fan favorites include 1990-2000s classics such as The Powerpuff Girls, Dexter’s Laboratory, Courage the Cowardly Dog, and Ed, Edd n Eddy.

Other hits include series such as Adventure Time, Regular Show, Total Drama Island, Summer Camp Island, and Teen Titans Go!

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Cartoon Network’s Total Drama Island revival premiered in June 2024Credit: Cartoon Network

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Teen Titans Go! debuted on Cartoon Network in April 2013.