Jackie Chan Adventures and 5 Other Forgotten Animated Shows That Shaped American Childhood
The mark of a good show or movie is that it is remembered by the audience long after it first premieres. Fans are enthralled with the story and the characters, going back to the movie time after time. However, there are times when some iconic shows, especially animated cartoons, can sometimes be rewritten or forgotten as the niche audience grows up.
That is not to say the shows did not do well. They were recognized as jewel shows in their heyday, only to lose their target audience to adulthood. Let’s take a look at some of such animated shows that not only shaped American childhood but also gave children a chance to escape into an imaginary magical world.
Jackie Chan Adventures (2000)
This animated show perfectly blended historical mysticism with magic. While the name might suggest a connection to the extraordinary martial arts hero Jackie Chan, the protagonist just seems to be named after him to portray bravery and strength. He ventures into the unknown when he finds a mysterious artifact with possible connections to the Chinese Zodiac.
Along with wonderful characters and hilarious jokes, the show had some amazing fight scenes with kung fu and other martial arts. The show mesmerized younger audiences and sparked their interest in history while luring them into an other-worldly setting filled with monsters and brave heroes alike. Jackie Chan Adventures is streaming on AppleTV.
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Xiaolin Showdown (2003)
Introducing children to the balance between good and evil, Xiaolin Showdown is an animated show with hero Omi at the center of the story. Along with his gang of companions, they travel across various places to find ancient objects related to magic and martial arts. However, they are on a ticking clock as they have to find the artifacts before evil villains get to them.
The show encouraged kids to pursue puzzles and solve mysteries while inculcating an interest in martial arts and fantasy adventures. Moreover, the show adds action with intricate tales of power and good deeds that leave the kids thinking long after an episode is over. Xiaolin Showdown is a masterpiece in animation and character building, we’ll never know why people forgot about it so soon. Fans can still watch the show on AppleTV.
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Aaahh!!! Real Monsters (1994)
Across 4 seasons, starting from 1994, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters tells the tale of three monsters who are on a mission to scare humans. Similar to the plot of Monsters Inc., the animated show follows Ickis, Oblina, and Krumm as the central characters. While the plot was unique, the reason it appealed to kids in a bizarre way was its colors and animated monsters in weird shapes.
Despite adopting a more mature tone in certain episodes and possibly giving kids a few scares, the show was a pioneer in horror animation for kids. Its comedy and formula to greatness were later adopted by many modern cartoons as well. While people don’t know about the show today, it did quite well in its day, attracting audiences from youngsters to teens alike. Fans can watch the show on Paramount+.
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Generator Rex (2010)
It’s hard to imagine 2010 being so far away now, but a show that’s reminiscent of childhoods in that era is Generator Rex. Blending advanced technology, powerful elements, and a planet affected by mutations, the animated show had a wonderous storyline that evoked thought and awe in viewers.
The show introduced viewers to science fiction and how a world with powerful weapons can lead to destruction in new ways every day. Superheroes and supervillains are at the center of the show along with the protagonist Rex. Even though many kids might have dressed like Rex for Halloween in their childhood, the show is seldom mentioned in modern times. Generator Rex can be watched on AppleTV.
Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends (2004)
Who didn’t imagine having a friend that only they can see and hear, someone only they can talk to and share feelings? To give kids an insight into where their childhood best (read imaginary) friends went, the creators made this animated show. With an exceptionally heartfelt plot and hilarious one-liners, Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends was a great success at the time.
When the hero of the story Mac outgrows his imaginary friend, he takes him to the Foster Home where he makes a deal to visit him regularly. This allows the duo to stay in touch and have exciting adventures whenever they want. The show brought children’s imagination alive with quirky characters and showed imaginary friends in vibrant colors and designs. Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends is available on AppleTV.
Sherlock Holmes in the 22nd Century (1999)
The brooding detection Sherlock Holmes is a household name today and has been a fan favorite for as long as we can remember. In an attempt to introduce him to children, the animated show Sherlock Holmes in the 22nd Century was created. As the name suggests, the show takes place in the future where robots and clones reign the streets of London.
Along with prodding the thought of solving cases in children, the show also gives them a glimpse into the futuristic tech that has its pros and cons. Children loved going on an adventure with every episode as Sherlock navigated the world of crime with Watsom. James Moriarty remained the central villain, hatching cunning plans and keeping Sherlock busy. The episodes of the animated show can be streamed on Tubi.
