Animation can be enjoyed by the young and old nowadays, becoming a worldwide sensation more popular than ever. While anime in Japan and cartoons in the United States continue to dominate the world of animation, other countries have also produced new masterpieces and nostalgic classics. Canada isn’t the first place fans think of when imagining cartoons, but it has surprisingly created some legendary hits.
Shows like My Little Pony and Arthur were co-produced by America and Canada, but the latter has also individually delivered some hits, which this ranking will highlight. To celebrate Canada Day 2025, this list will feature the best Canadian cartoons based on critics’ and fans’ opinions of the entertainment value, writing, popularity, and how iconic they are. There may be some stipulations, but for the most part, these shows are Canadian through and through.
10
‘Jimmy Two-Shoes’ (2009-2012)
Created by Edward Kay and Sean Scott
People can find it hard to be optimistic in this world, but Jimmy Two-Shoes proves there can be happiness in even the worst of environments. Miseryville produces one thing: misery. The megalomaniacal leader spreads grief and suffering throughout the bleak town, but Jimmy pays it no mind, hoping to spread his infectious positivity on all the inhabitants, jeopardizing Miseryville’s business.
Jimmy Two-Shoes is a unique show that highlights Canada’s peculiar fascination with creating oddly dark, disturbing, and bizarre children’s cartoons. It has a mix of cynical, violent, witty, and silly humor that combines to make a cartoon perfect for all ages. Older audiences can find enjoyment in the overarching darkness, while younger fans can appreciate the goofy jokes. Jimmy is an iconic cartoon character who brightens up this cartoon.
9
‘Wayside’ (2007-2008)
Created by John Derevlany and Louis Sachar
School is full of weird adventures, taking fans to who knows where? Wayside is loosely based on the book series of the same name, set in a towering school of 30 stories. Todd is a new student who enjoys his time at this oddly shaped school and the many crazy adventures and mysteries he and his friends stumble upon.
While some fans will criticize Wayside for not adapting the books faithfully, this series offers a more lighthearted and goofy version, making it more suitable as a cartoon. The quirkiness is the main appeal, and the sense of adventure is perfect for any kid looking to make school more interesting. Wayside is a clever series with heart and personality, proving Canada can showcase its unique splendor in animation.
- Release Date
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2007 – 2008-00-00
- Network
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Nickelodeon, Teletoon, Nicktoons
- Directors
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Riccardo Durante
8
‘Johnny Test’ (2005-2014)
Created by Scott Fellows
While some fans may not be familiar with the previous two cartoons, most viewers are likely aware of Johnny Test, one of the most iconic cartoons from the mid-2000s. Technically, this show was originally American, but Canada would later pick up production and refine the show into what it is today.
Some viewers may not appreciate the overuse of specific sound effects, but this zany series shoved it all into the audience, producing mostly positive results. Johnny Test is a critical sensation, earning countless awards for sound editing, music, direction, and overall excellence. The basic premise sets up countless journeys that fans experience through its distinct cast and memorable moments.
7
‘Clone High’ (2002-2003)
Created by Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Bill Lawrence
Most fans know Phil Lord and Christopher Miller for Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. But before those iconic films, they delivered a staple cartoon that left too soon. Clone High follows the adolescent clones of historical figures, who the military hopes will use their individual strengths to become even more powerful.
While Clone High made a brief return in 2024, the studio cancelled the show again. Despite enduring multiple cancellations, this series has a dedicated fan base that adores this adult animation. Critics praised the premise, characters, depth, and humour, all of which are among the best that adult animation has to offer. The only reason it ranks so low is that Clone High isn’t solely Canadian, but a co-production between the United States of America and Canada.
6
‘Slugterra’ (2012-2016)
Created by Asaph Fipke
Few Canadian cartoons last long, as their popularity can’t reach the heights of American cartoons. However, Slugterra is one of the few Canadian shows to have earned a long tenure, spanning six seasons and multiple movies. The underworld is full of many mysteries, and Eli Shane is the next guardian of Slugterra, using the magical slugs as ammunition to fight against the evil Dr. Blakk.
Slugterra is one of the few cartoons to follow a cohesive storyline instead of the episodic format, allowing characters and plots to develop throughout the series. The premise may sound goofy, but the action, adventure, scale, and heart make for an exhilarating watch that can hook audiences of all ages. Slugterra is one of the most underrated cartoons from the 2010s and deserves more praise for its premise and entertainment value.
5
‘Totally Spies!’ (2001-2015)
Created by Vincent Chalvon-Demersay and David Michel
This part of the list now features more popular shows that a worldwide audience may recognize, such as Totally Spies! While it was initially produced in France, Canada took over production for the later seasons, making it a staple of Canadian television. When Sam, Clover, and Alex aren’t hanging out in school, they are fighting crime as international spies.
After its original run, Totally Spies returned in 2024 for a new season, with another eighth season planned, bringing this classic series back into the spotlight. However, no one can forget the epic nostalgia that this show produced with every episode. Totally Spies breaks gender barriers, becoming a cult classic that boys and girls can enjoy, proving its versatility and dynamic appeal.
4
‘Total Drama Island’ (2007-2014)
Created by Jennifer Pertsch and Tom McGillis
Everyone wants to be famous, and many view reality TV as a gateway to a glamorous life. However, Total Drama spoofs this idolization by creating a survival spoof cartoon about one of the most beloved reality TV shows. A group of teenagers compete in multiple challenges on an island, eliminating each other until there is only one contestant left.
Its popularity and iconic status arguably make it eligible for the top spot, and many fans would agree; however, the other series are just as good, proving that underrated shows also have worth with their distinct flair. Either way, Total Drama Island had fans in a chokehold, adored for its mature yet chaotic vibe, with unforgettable characters and memorable moments. Total Drama Island still holds up as an all-time classic.
3
‘Detentionaire’ (2011-2015)
Created by Daniel Bryan Franklin and Charles Johnston
First impressions are essential in high school, but on Lee Ping’s first day of tenth grade, he is framed for a heinous prank he didn’t commit. Punished with a year of detention, Lee sneaks out every day with the help of his friends, investigating the cause and the real culprit, unveiling a dark conspiracy that involves the school and his family.
The episodic structure is popular for cartoons because fans can turn on the TV and watch any episode without risk. However, Detentionaire opted for a semi-focused story that took fans through a shocking world and a chilling mystery. This cartoon also opted for a mystery thriller genre instead of a comedy adventure series, separating itself with intriguing lore, riveting mystery, and fascinating world-building, creating one of the most underrated Canadian cartoons.
2
‘Ed, Edd n Eddy’ (1999-2009)
Created by Danny Antonucci
If there is one cartoon fans have heard of on this list, it is Ed, Edd n Eddy, arguably the most popular Canadian cartoon that many fans didn’t realize was from Canada. Despite being outcasts in the cul-de-sac, this group of misfits has schemes up their sleeves to get back at others and cause chaos, usually resulting in failure.
Fans are probably upset that Ed, Edd n Eddy isn’t number one on this list, considering it is the most iconic Canadian cartoon. However, other fans don’t realize how good other Canadian animation series are, even if this one is fantastic. From numerous award wins to glowing critical praise and enduring audience love, Ed, Edd n Eddy is a legendary cartoon and Canada’s longest-running, proving its worth as one of the greatest of all time.
1
‘6Teen’ (2004-2010)
Created by Jennifer Pertsch and Tom McGillis
This list has proven that there are many fantastic Canadian cartoons, all deserving of this top spot; however, 6Teen earns the number one spot, being the perfect blend of popular, underrated, iconic, and distinctly Canadian. The cartoon follows a group of teenage friends and their jobs at the mall, as they come together to enjoy their youth and share in the challenges of being teenagers.
Besides setting unrealistic standards for what teenage life would be like, 6Teen influenced every Canadian kid’s dream of being a teenager. This exciting teen drama is relatable, goofy, profound, and hilarious, accentuated by its flash-animated style that adds a nostalgic warmth. Canada has produced many timeless cartoons, but 6Teen is an international icon that highlights the strength of Canadian cartoons and storytelling.