Animated shows aren’t just for Saturday morning cartoons anymore.
In recent years, there has been a wave of adult animation that is clever, bold, and unapologetically entertaining – no, really, they’re that good.
And, Max (formerly HBO Max) is just the perfect platform if you’re in the mood for adult animated shows that will have you screaming with laughter.
These shows cater to a more mature audience, so you can be sure that these animated delights take traditional cartoons a notch further.
Here are some of the best original adult animated shows you can watch on HBO Max right now:
1. Fired On Mars
Fired on Mars is a lively American adult animated sci-fi comedy inspired by Nate Sherman and Nick Vokey’s 2016 short film of the same name.
It follows Jeff Cooper, a talented graphic designer thriving in the thriving Martian colony of Mars.ly, a tech start-up.
Unexpectedly let go due to redundancy, Jeff finds himself stranded on Mars, with no route back to Earth.
Undeterred, he embarks on a thrilling journey of self-discovery, drawing wisdom from quirky mentors.
As he battles the indifferent Mars.ly corporate world, Jeff strives to redefine his purpose while maintaining a long-distance romance with his Earthbound sweetheart, Hannah.
2. Santa Inc.
In this spirited American, stop-motion, adult-animated Christmas-comedy miniseries, Candy Smalls is a talented female elf serving as the North Pole’s dedicated second-in-command.
Her unwavering ambition? To shatter all glass ceilings and become the first-ever female Santa Claus.
Candy’s exhilarating journey as she fearlessly pursues her ultimate dream, spreading joy and merriment across the globe in this original animated show available on HBO Max is just the thing if you want a serotonin boost.
With her determined spirit and undeniable charm, Candy Smalls is determined to make history and show the world that Santa knows no boundaries.
3. The Prince
Prince George’s youthful energy infuses every moment with joy and mischief. From mischievous pranks to enchanting antics, he weaves a tapestry of delightful chaos that keeps everyone on their toes. And, the jokes – My god, the jokes.
4. Infinity Train
Set aboard an endless train traversing a barren landscape, the series unveils captivating cars filled with fantastical realms.
Each passenger picked up by the train bears unresolved emotional struggles, and through thrilling escapades within the train’s compartments, they confront and conquer their inner demons, symbolized by a glowing number dwindling on their hand.
As their number hits zero, a portal appears, leading them back home, liberated and transformed.
This remarkable journey offers healing and growth, offering a vivid reminder that within the train’s infinite bounds, emotional redemption awaits all who dare to embark.
5. Close Enough
In this original animated series available on HBO Max, Josh, Emily, and their delightful daughter, Candice, live in a charming Los Angeles duplex.
They share this vibrant space with their divorced pals, Alex and Bridgette.
Everyday occurrences, seemingly ordinary domestic mishaps, take a whimsical twist, transcending the boundaries of reality into captivating, science fiction-infused adventures.
From mundane to extraordinary, their crises soar to surreal heights, painting a tapestry of enchantment and imagination.
In this captivating realm, laughter and wonder intertwine, transforming their lives into an exhilarating journey where the extraordinary lies just beyond the realm of the ordinary.
6. Ten-Year-Old Tom
The show is a vibrant reincarnation of The Life & Times of Tim, Steve Dildarian’s beloved creation for HBO in 2008.
With fresh energy and undeniable charm, it captures the essence of its predecessor.
Steve Dildarian’s creative genius takes center stage once again, crafting a world of laughter and relatable tales.
This revived masterpiece promises a joyous reunion, highlighting the timeless wit and irresistible humor that made the original series a cherished gem.
Get ready for a delightful journey through this amazing The Life & Times of Tim’s reincarnation!
7. Young Justice (Season 4)
Nightwing, Kid Flash, Aqualad, Superboy, Miss Martian, and Artemis make up “the Team,” a covert group operating independently from the bureaucratic restraints of the renowned Justice League.
Set in Earth-16, a fresh universe, these young heroes face a world where supervillains collaborate under the manipulative Light.
Brace yourself for an action-packed journey as they navigate the challenges of a burgeoning era of superheroes.
These extraordinary teenagers will steal your heart (as they did mind), and if you’ve been on the lookout for the best original cartoons on HBO Max to watch, I can’t recommend this more.
8. Harley Quinn
This fantastic show found a new home on HBO Max after DC Universe underwent a transformative restructure in 2020.
The animated series follows Harley Quinn on an enthralling journey of misadventures and self-discovery as she liberates herself from the Joker’s grasp, realizing that his love for her was never genuine.
Brace yourself for an uproarious ride filled with laughter, growth, and newfound independence.
And, that’s a wrap! These animated series are simply the best and if you’ve been looking for the most interesting HBO Max original animated series, I can’t recommend these more.
If you’re in the mood for more recommendations, check out the related posts below and I’m sure you’ll find something!
