Brief Summary
This video celebrates the 25th anniversary of Toonami, reflecting on its significant impact on viewers, particularly those who grew up with it in the 90s and early 2000s. It discusses Toonami's role in introducing anime to Western audiences, its evolution, and its lasting legacy, including its initial run, its cancellation in 2008, and its revival in 2012.
- Toonami's initial run from 1997 to 2008 and its focus on action anime.
- The introduction of Tom as the host and the spaceship Absolution as the show's environment.
- The return of Toonami in 2012 and its current broadcasting status.
Introduction: Toonami's 25th Anniversary
The video starts by celebrating the 25th anniversary of Toonami, a cartoon block that aired on Cartoon Network in the late 90s. The author reflects on Toonami's impact on introducing anime to Western audiences and its profound influence on 90s and early 2000s kids. He acknowledges that Toonami was a significant part of many childhoods and expresses his excitement that a new generation is now following suit.
Toonami's Early Days and Impact
Toonami initially aired as an afternoon and evening block on Cartoon Network, targeting teenagers aged 12 to 15, from 1997 to 2008. It was known for showcasing action anime that became popular in America, featuring a space-themed backdrop, anime music videos, and a host named Tom. The block replaced Power Zone on March 17, 1997, and was originally hosted by Space Ghost villain Moltar.
The Shift to Tom and the Spaceship Absolution
On July 10, 1999, Cartoon Network relaunched Toonami with a new environment, the spaceship Absolution, and a new host named Tom. Tom introduced himself and the new setting, emphasizing that the mission objectives would remain the same. This relaunch also introduced the Midnight Run, a late-night block featuring anime with more blood and violence, such as Dragon Ball Z and Gundam Wing.
Video Game Reviews and Toonami's Evolution
In addition to anime, Toonami occasionally aired video game reviews delivered by Tom and his AI assistant, Sarah. These reviews rated games on a scale of 1 to 10 and were featured during commercial breaks. Over the years, Toonami underwent numerous revisions, sponsored promotions, and tie-in comics, including online video services like Toonami Reactor and Toonami Jetstream.
The End of an Era: Toonami's Cancellation in 2008
Toonami continued until 2008, when the final episode aired, marking a sad day for many viewers. The final episode showed Tom making it back to his home planet, bringing the journey full circle. Tom version 4 ended the block with a monologue set to the song "Cascade" by Taiko, expressing gratitude to the viewers for their support.
The Return of Toonami in 2012
On April 1, 2012, Adult Swim aired the Toonami block as an April Fool's Day prank. Following the positive response, Adult Swim posted messages on social media asking viewers if they wanted the block back. On May 26, Toonami officially returned as a Saturday late-night action block, featuring current Adult Swim action programs and premieres of new shows.
Toonami's Current Status and Legacy
Toonami is currently still broadcasting and has expanded to seven full hours on Saturday nights. The author expresses his joy that kids today can experience what viewers did in the past and hopes they will have the same sense of wonder and exploration. He concludes by noting Toonami's tremendous impact on millennials and its lasting legacy.
