Genndy Tartakovsky Reflects on 25 Years of Cartoon Network Studios and the Future of Animation

Animation Festival, celebrating 25 years of Cartoon Network Studios. Addressing an enthusiastic audience, Tartakovsky encouraged aspiring animators to “make cartoon after cartoon until something hits,” highlighting the opportunities available today that were harder to come by in the past.

Tartakovsky praised the modern digital landscape where young cartoonists can independently share their work on platforms like YouTube, effectively creating their own channels. “If I were starting now, I’d work a day job and make cartoons at night until something catches,” he said, emphasizing the increased accessibility for creators in today’s media environment.

Joining Tartakovsky was longtime friend Craig McCracken, creator of The Powerpuff Girls, who noted the vibrant energy on the set of his upcoming Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends spin-off produced with Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe.

Adam Muto, showrunner of Adventure Time, added a cautious note, underscoring the importance of preserving unique creative voices while recognizing the challenges of getting projects greenlit by commissioners.

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Breaking the System

Tartakovsky and McCracken recounted their early days at Cartoon Network Studios, describing how they challenged traditional animation norms. Tartakovsky recalled how the older generation of animators was resistant to change when he began working on Dexter’s Laboratory, a show that went on to receive a primetime Emmy nomination.

McCracken described the tension with network veterans who had fought for years to maintain the status quo. “We were breaking the system,” he said, reflecting on their groundbreaking work on Dexter’s Lab and later The Powerpuff Girls. Despite challenges, including harsh focus groups, McCracken pushed forward, motivated by network executive Mike Lazzo’s encouragement to accept polarizing reactions rather than indifference.

The Next Generation of Cartoon Voices

The panel also featured younger creators—Adam Muto (Adventure Time), JG Quintel (Regular Show), Rebecca Sugar (Steven Universe), and Pendleton Ward (Adventure Time)—who discussed the pressures and fears that come with creating new series in an evolving industry.

Sugar, the first non-binary creator to independently helm a Cartoon Network show, emphasized the importance of protecting one’s creative vision in the early stages of production. She shared a memorable anecdote about pitching Steven Universe to Tartakovsky, which coincidentally led to a car accident on her way home.

The event coincided with the presence of animation legend Matt Groening, underscoring the festival’s significance in the world of animation.