7 Shocking Backstories of Classic Cartoons

Dark Truths Behind Old Cartoons Radiocity By Radiocity Team Published Jun 19, 2025 [{ "selector": ".custom-gradient", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "keyframes": [ { "offset": 0, "transform": "translateY(100px)" }, { "offset": 1, "transform": "translateY(0)" } ] }]

Courage the Cowardly Dog This creepy cartoon is rumored to be based on true missing persons cases and a real abandoned town in New Mexico. That explains the eerie vibe. [{ "selector": ".custom-gradient", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "keyframes": [ { "offset": 0, "transform": "translateY(100px)" }, { "offset": 1, "transform": "translateY(0)" } ] }]

The Rugrats Theory One of the darkest fan theories claims Angelica imagined all the babies to cope with tragedy—each one symbolizing a family member’s loss. [{ "selector": ".custom-gradient", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "keyframes": [ { "offset": 0, "transform": "translateY(100px)" }, { "offset": 1, "transform": "translateY(0)" } ] }]

Ed, Edd n Eddy Fans speculate the cul-de-sac is purgatory and the kids are spirits stuck in eternal childhood. The eerie timelessness supports this chilling theory. [{ "selector": ".custom-gradient", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "keyframes": [ { "offset": 0, "transform": "translateY(100px)" }, { "offset": 1, "transform": "translateY(0)" } ] }]

The Smurfs’ Creepy Symbolism Critics believe the Smurfs represent a strict authoritarian society. Their identical appearance and rigid rules hint at disturbing undertones. [{ "selector": ".custom-gradient", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "keyframes": [ { "offset": 0, "transform": "translateY(100px)" }, { "offset": 1, "transform": "translateY(0)" } ] }]

Scooby-Doo’s Grim Setting Why are all the buildings abandoned? A theory says Scooby-Doo is set during an economic collapse where crime soared and towns were deserted. [{ "selector": ".custom-gradient", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "keyframes": [ { "offset": 0, "transform": "translateY(100px)" }, { "offset": 1, "transform": "translateY(0)" } ] }]

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