Cartoon Network revolutionised television by becoming the pioneering 24-hour animation-focused cable channel on October 1, 1992. Fast forward 32 years later, the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork dominates social media feeds, marking a poignant moment sparked by Animation Workers Ignited, formerly known as X, with a striking animation lamenting the demise of Cartoon Network. The animation industry at large faces similar challenges amidst widespread cutbacks.
Also read: Cartoon Network is not shutting down. Here's why '#RIPCartoonNetwork' is trending online
The sudden announcement has left viewers and cartoon enthusiasts reeling with disbelief. Official statements from the channel's creators remain conspicuously absent, adding to the uncertainty surrounding its future.
The animated declaration starkly pronounced, “Cartoon Network is essentially dead and other big animation studios are not far behind. What happened to all the animation workers?”
Highlighting the plight exacerbated during the pandemic, the video revealed a staggering increase in unemployment within the animation sector, with some enduring joblessness for over a year. Despite being one of the few industries capable of sustaining operations remotely during the COVID-19 crisis, studios allegedly exacerbated the situation by canceling projects, outsourcing work, and executing mass layoffs. The video pointedly criticised corporate greed for prioritising financial gains over employee welfare, leading to drastic cost-cutting measures.
Also read: RIP Cartoon Network: A look at 5 shows that defined our childhood
In response, fans rallied behind #RIPCartoonNetwork, flooding social media with cherished memories of their favourite Cartoon Network moments. The movement encourages solidarity and action, urging followers to stay updated for opportunities to support the cause.
Many are taking to X to share their memories. One user wrote, “So weird and painful to say goodbye to an iconic piece of history.”
Another user wrote, “Never forget what endless, unchecked corporate greed via two back-to-back mergers took from you #RIPCartoonNetwork”
A third user wrote, “it’s the end of an era, Cartoon Network has officially shut down #RIPCartoonNetwork”
As the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork went viral, rumours began circulating that Cartoon Network was on the brink of permanent closure. However, these rumours are unfounded.
Animation Workers Ignited, represented by the animators' union, has used the hashtag to draw attention to the challenges faced by industry professionals, emphasising their plight.
Contrary to the speculation, Cartoon Network itself is not shutting down. Following the merger of Cartoon Network Studios and Warner Bros. Discovery in 2022, efforts have been made to streamline organisational structures. This includes closer collaboration between development and primary production teams, as noted in an internal document referenced by Vulture.
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