#RIPCartoonNetwork has been trending on X (formerly known as Twitter) amid reports that the channel is shutting down. The trend started when a X account "Animation Workers Ignited" shared an animation claiming that "Cartoon Network is essentially dead." The post also suggested that other animation studios are facing similar challenges, particularly due to layoffs in the industry.
Origins of the #RIPCartoonNetwork trend
The animation stated, "Cartoon Network is essentially dead and other big animation studios are not far behind. What happened to all the animation workers? Many are unemployed in record numbers, with some jobless for over a year, despite carrying the industry during the pandemic. When Covid first hit, animation was able to operate completely remotely, making it one of the only forms of entertainment that could continue production uninter ..
Industry issues
The video attributed these issues to greed, claiming that big studios improved their financials by reducing spending and cutting staff, allowing CEOs and executives to reap the benefits. It urged viewers to spread the word by posting about their favourite Cartoon Network shows with the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork and to follow the account for more ways to support the cause.
Public reactions
The clip quickly went viral, garnering over three million views in less than four hours. Social media users initially shared their favourite cartoons using the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork. One user commented, "Courage The Cowardly Dog will always be a favourite! It’s very sad to hear that the animators were treated so poorly, and hopefully, they can find work soon!"
Another reminisced, "I’ll probably remember that episode of 'The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy' when they tried to get her to smile for the rest of my life."
Clarifying the rumors
As the hashtag gained traction, rumours began to circulate that Cartoon Network was shutting down permanently. However, these claims are false. The account "Animation Workers Ignited," associated with the animators' union, is using the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork to highlight the challenges faced by industry workers. The channel itself is not shutting down.
