Animated Icons Return With New Adventures

The world of animation is experiencing a nostalgic shake-up, with several iconic cartoons from the 2000s and 2010s officially returning to our screens. From the surreal chaos of The Amazing World of Gumball to the inventive brilliance of Phineas and Ferb, and the fantasy realms of Adventure Time to the laid-back absurdity of Regular Show, fans young and old have a lot to look forward to.

Here’s everything we know so far about these highly anticipated animated comebacks – including confirmed titles, expected release dates, and where you’ll be able to watch them in the UK.

The Amazing World of Gumball: The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball

After a lengthy hiatus, Gumball and Darwin are finally making a return in a brand-new series titled The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball. Set to premiere in 2025 on Hulu in the United States, the show will also air on Cartoon Network internationally, including the UK.

This new instalment acts as a continuation following the events of the upcoming Gumball movie. With a new voice cast and updated animation, fans can expect the same witty, surreal humour that made Elmore a global favourite – just with a fresh twist.

Adventure Time Expands Its Universe

The Adventure Time franchise is showing no signs of slowing down. Four major projects are currently in development or confirmed:

• Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake – Season 2

Following the critical success of its first season, Fionna and Cake has been renewed for a second outing. It’s set to premiere in late 2025 or early 2026 on Max, with a UK release expected via Sky or NOW.

• Adventure Time: Side Quests

This upcoming prequel series will explore Finn and Jake’s earlier escapades, aimed at a slightly younger audience. A 2026 release is expected.

• Adventure Time: Heyo BMO

A preschool-focused spin-off centred on fan-favourite robot BMO. Still in development, this light-hearted series is designed for younger viewers, with no set release date yet.

• Adventure Time: The Movie

A feature-length film is also in the works, although few details have been revealed. This marks the first time the series will head to the big screen in an official capacity.

Regular Show: Lost Tapes

Regular Show is also getting a fresh spin with the announcement of Regular Show: Lost Tapes. The series will consist of 44 new episodes, diving into previously unseen storylines from the original show’s timeline. Creator J.G. Quintel is confirmed to be returning.

Lost Tapes is expected to premiere in 2026 on Cartoon Network, with UK distribution details yet to be confirmed. If you missed Mordecai, Rigby, and their gang of misfit co-workers, get ready for another round of interdimensional shenanigans and deadpan nonsense.

Phineas and Ferb – Season 5

Disney’s most inventive stepbrothers are making their official comeback with Season 5 of Phineas and Ferb, dropping 5th June 2025 on Disney Channel UK and 6th June on Disney+ UK.

Original creators Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh are back on board, along with much of the original voice cast. Expect brand-new songs, bigger inventions, and a return to the witty humour that defined a generation of Disney Channel fans.

What’s Coming and When – Quick List

• The Amazing World of Gumball: The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball

Status: Confirmed

Release: 2025

• Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake – Season 2

Status: Confirmed

Release: Late 2025 / Early 2026

• Adventure Time: Side Quests

Status: In development

Release: Expected 2026

• Adventure Time: Heyo BMO

Status: In development

Release: TBC

• Adventure Time: The Movie

Status: Announced

Release: TBC

• Regular Show: Lost Tapes

Status: Announced

Release: Expected 2026

• Phineas and Ferb – Season 5

Status: Confirmed

Release: 5th June 2025 (Disney Channel UK), 6th June 2025 (Disney+ UK)

A Nostalgic Revival with a Modern Twist

The return of these beloved cartoons marks more than just a trip down memory lane. They’re being reimagined for new audiences, while staying true to the charm, heart, and chaos that made them iconic in the first place. Whether you grew up watching Cartoon Network and Disney Channel, or you’re discovering these series for the first time, 2025 and beyond is shaping up to be a golden era for animation lovers.

So set your reminders, mark your calendars, and get ready. Your favourite animated legends are back – and they’ve still got a lot of story to tell.

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