The Great Ranking: The Best Order of Emmy-Award Winning Animated Series

The debate on which animated series is the best can be highly subjective, varying from personal taste to cultural impact and critical reception. However, based on their overall influence, popularity, and critical acclaim as of August 2023, here is a general ranking of some of the most celebrated series in animated television: The Simpsons, Futurama, Rick and Morty, and South Park.

The Greatest Animated Comedy: The Simpsons

Widely regarded as one of the greatest TV shows of all time, The Simpsons has had a profound impact on animation and television comedy since its debut in 1989. The Simpsons is renowned for its satirical take on American culture and has won numerous awards. Its opening credits, which are now iconic in themselves, have become a cultural phenomenon. The series has become so influential that it has been referenced and parodied in countless other media and popular culture.

A Cult Classic: Futurama

Futurama, created by Matt Groening, is celebrated for its clever writing, unique humor, and thoughtful exploration of science fiction themes. While it has a smaller following than The Simpsons, it has garnered a cult classic status. The show’s technical brilliance and strong character development have made it a beloved favorite among fans of science fiction and humor.

Dark and Complex: Rick and Morty

Rick and Morty is known for its dark humor and complex storytelling. Since its premiere in 2013, it has quickly risen in popularity, receiving critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. While it is not as universally influential as The Simpsons or Futurama, its innovative narrative techniques and unparalleled creation of a cosmic universe have made it one of the most impactful shows of recent years. The show’s characters, in particular Rick, have become cultural icons.

Polarizing and Satirical: South Park

South Park is highly regarded for its satirical and often controversial commentary on current events. However, its style and humor can be polarizing. The show has been influential in its own right, albeit not as widely embraced by the general public as the other shows. Its consistent and often daring critique of societal norms and religious institutions has garnered significant attention and controversy.

The ranking is as follows, from best to least:

South Park (8/10 - For its biting satire and cultural impact) Rick and Morty (9/10 - For its unique storytelling and ground-breaking approach) Futurama (6.5/10 - For its quality content, despite not having the same staying power as the others) The Simpsons (9.5/10 - For its enduring legacy and cultural significance)

While Rick and Morty has only had 2.5 seasons, it is breaking new ground and has the potential to become a cultural icon. The Simpsons, on the other hand, started to lose steam after Season 8, with its post-2008 episodes being criticized for having a diluted and less impactful storyline. South Park has some redeeming qualities, notably its unwavering commitment to parodying religion, but its initial quality and style have been a double-edged sword.

Ultimately, the ranking of these shows is subjective and can change over time as new content is released and new trends emerge in the world of animated television. The enduring appeal of Rick and Morty lies in its commitment to pushing boundaries and creating a universe that challenges norms and expectations. Meanwhile, The Simpsons continues to be a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its dark humor, satire, and unrelenting dedication to its characters and storylines.