Abby Sacks
Last week, I wrote an article about why “Avatar” is the best title on Netflix right now. Writing that made me nostalgic for a time when I could turn on the TV and tune to a funny, uplifting, good-quality cartoon to spend my time watching. While researching “Avatar,” I remembered some of the other shows of a similar caliber that aired around the same time. The mid-2000s was a golden age of cartoons. They just hit different.
#1 “Kim Possible”
“Kim Possible” features a kickass female lead who was a cheerleader by day and crime fighter by night. She also did it all in really cute outfits that I would totally rock today. What more could you want? Besides the eponymous lead character, “Kim Possible” also features an unforgettable host of secondary characters, including Ron Stoppable, Rufus the naked mole rat, Dr. Drakken, and Shego. “Kim Possible” is also available on Disney+.
#2 “Avatar: The Last Airbender”
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” is amazing. We all know that. It has interesting, complex characters for every type of viewer to relate to; a coherent storyline with good payoff; and cool, fun to watch bending. It ran from 2005 to 2008, and it might be the defining show for many young adults now. “Avatar” is available now to watch on Netflix.
#3 “Teen Titans”
“Teen Titans.” No, not the watered-down disappointment that is “Teen Titans Go!” “Teen Titans” is probably the most mature show on this list, with “Avatar” closely following. This show tackles themes of insecurity, racism, and coming of age all within the entertaining framework of a team of B-list superheroes. “Teen Titans,” finally available to stream, can be found on HBO Max.
#4 “Phineas and Ferb”
“Phineas and Ferb” ran from 2007 to 2015, making it the longest-running show on this list. It definitely earns all of its 222 episodes, though. Each episode follows the same basic formula (though later episodes and specials stretch these limits), so it is a comfortable and familiar watch each time. It also has amazing original songs in each episode. “Phineas and Ferb” is available now to watch on Disney+.
