10 Inappropriate Jokes In Kids' Cartoons They Thought You Wouldn't Catch
Just about every kid ends up growing up on cartoons, often to the dismay of the parents who are forced to watch them with their children. Sometimes though, the networks that make a concession to the adults in the room by throwing in some moments that'll have them laughing while their kids sit there confused. Here's some of our favorites!
1) Hey Arnold! - Grandpa's Past
Grandpa Joe is one of the best characters on Hey Arnold! Between his often ridiculous advice to his grandson and his crazy stores about his past (he claims to have fought Adolf Hitler hand to hand in one episode), he's always good for a laugh. One time though, a particular crazy story just seemed a bit too real.
Yes, that is most likely an LSD reference. In a kids show. Yeesh.
2) Animaniacs - Fingerprints
One of the most beloved cartoons of all time, Animaniacs had no shortage of adult humor hidden amongst the wacky shenanigans. I mean, they routinely feature three pigeons based on the cast of Goodfellas.
During one sketch in particular though, things really got out of hand. Look at what happens when they Warner siblings try to be detectives.
How did they get away with this?
3) Rugrats - Lonely Space Vixens
Nickelodeon really seemed to love their hilarious grandfather characters, and Lou Pickles was no exception. Tommy's grandfather often liked to break the rules for his grandson and friends, and his perpetual falling asleep meant the babies could pretty much get away with anything.
One time though, he might have been just a little too ready to share his... personal habits with a group of one year olds.
If you didn't catch that even now, Lou is essentially telling his one year old grandson and his best friend that he's rented porn to watch after they go to bed.
4) Dexter's Laboratory - Dad's Trophy
When Dexter's sister Dee Dee sends him on a scavenger hunt to find the nuclear core she stole from his lamp, he ends up at their neighbor's house. There, he finds his final clue, presented in an... unusual spot.
Even taken within context (which is just about impossible here), how did Dee Dee manage to write this clue on Neighbor Lady's butt without her noticing?
5) Batman: The Animated Series - "Rev Up Your Harley"
One of the most beloved and darkest cartoons of all time, Batman: The Animated Series gave birth to one of DC's most popular characters: Harley Quinn.
The Joker's sidekick and love interest has remained consistently popular over the years, and their relationship is often talked about when discussing depictions of abuse in popular media.
During an episode that focuses primarily on their relationship, we get a much more personal insight into their dynamic.
Yes, this is a moment where Harley not so subtly asks The Joker for some sweet lovin, complete with her in a skimpy nightgown. The rest of the episode might be pretty dark, but this definitely put a dynamic into it we didn't totally understand as kids.
Click to the next page for even more adult jokes in cartoons!
6) The Simpsons - Fuzzy Bunny's Guide To You Know What
The Simpsons might not be intended as a kids program, but if you were a child of the 90s, you almost definitely grew up watching the show (whether your parents wanted you to or not).
Early on in the series, Milhouse begins to date Samantha, a new girl who shows up at the school. Appropriately enough, Mrs. Krabappel soon shows them this educational video on... urges.
The cheesy music and Mrs. K's reaction during the "honeymoon" part are too funny.
7) The Emperor's New Groove - Dagger Relief
When Kuzco and Pacha are trying to find the potion to turn Kuzco back into a human, they're cornered by Yzma, who threatens them in a way that really, REALLY toes the line in terms of what Disney can get away with.
It's not the only adult moment in this movie, but it definitely sticks out the most. The look of relief on their faces is priceless
8) Powerpuff Girls - Pencil Sharpener
When the Mayor of Townsville gets a visit from Ms. Bellum, it leads to this little double-entendre.
Just look at the man's face!
9) X-Men - Gambit's Flirting
The Cajun thief who threw explosive playing cards was also an incorrigible flirt, especially whenever Rogue was involved. Most of the time, his advances were fairly tame.
Sometimes though, he probably crossed a line more than we realized.
Dude, that's a bit too forward.
10) Rocko's Modern Life - All of It
Seriously, find me a part of this show that wasn't inappropriate. It's so much so there's an entire video on the subject.
How did they even get away with this stuff?
Which one was the worst?