Animated films are usually seen as harmless entertainment suitable for kids of all ages. However, there are certain episodes in animated shows that have proven to be too sensitive and dangerous for children. These episodes have been banned from being shown due to the potential risks they pose to young viewers. Let’s take a look at five of these banned episodes and what made them so controversial.
1. Dexter’s Laboratory: Dexter’s Rude Removal
Dexter’s Lab was one of the most beloved cartoon shows for children and adults alike during the 1990s, captivating audiences across the globe. Nevertheless, one particular episode from the series, Dexter’s Rude Removal, ended up being banned due to its extreme content. In the episode, Dexter attempts to use his genius intellect to construct a machine which would rid his sister Dee-Dee of her obnoxious traits; unfortunately, a glitch in the system cause Dexter and his sister to end up with two versions of themselves – one that is polite and kind while the other curses incessantly – every profanity dubbed by censorship with a “beep”. The obscenity of this episode led to it being immediately outlawed even after it had been completed. Understandably so, Genndy Tartakovskky – producer of the show – rarely makes mention of this particular episode now, leaving its fans yearning for what could have been.
2. Tiny Toon Adventures: One Beer
This episode of Tiny Toon Adventures caused quite a stir when it aired back in 1991. Having three main character get “drunk” after sharing only one bottle of beer was highly inappropriate, even if the producers meant to draw attention to the effects of substance abuse. Furthermore, the characters asking their female classmates out on dates was (predictably) seen as an extremely teachable moment gone wrong. Not surprisingly, the DVD version of this episode was quickly banned for promoting children’s substance use and for containing highly inappropriate language.
3. Sailor Moon: Day of Destiny
While the tragic content of Sailor Moon episode 68 was so powerful that it could not be shown as is in the United States, it served as a reminder that everyone must stay strong and keep fighting no matter what, which is one of the lessons handled throughout the season. Upon seeing this episode, many viewers were left with a sense of despair, but also inspiration, to continue despite any obstacle. The US distributor was obviously discouraged when trying to believe such a patient morale could exist within their children’s anime program, leading them to make changes to better suit the target audience. These changes ranged from hiding some details of the original story to entirely recutting some scenes. In any case, this beloved episode proved once again how complex and captivating an anime can be – nothing should be taken lightly.
4. Pokémon: Electric Soldier Porygon
Pokémon: Electric Soldier Porygon episode is an infamous episode that was banned after it aired and caused hundreds of Japanese children to experience seizures, hallucinations and vomiting. The cause of these reactions have been attributed to the flashing lights and intense visuals that can overwhelm viewers. Now, even when re-watching this episode many viewers still feel a sense of disorientation or “hangover” from the jumpy graphics and intense lightening effects, making it one of the most memorable episodes in Pokémon history.
5. The Powerpuff Girls: See Me, Feel Me, Gnomey
The episode See Me, Feel Me, Gnomey was a musical that revolved around 3 heroines who were offered a contract by a dwarf god – if they give up their powers, all evil forces will disappear. Accepting the offer, the town of Townsville is quickly turned into this dwarf god’s cult. Until of course, the superhumans still manage to defeat him at the end of the episode. Unfortunately after the making of this episode Cartoon Network banned it from airing in the US due to lasers resembling crosses and one character looking like Jesus. Producer Craig McCracken gave an explanation upon its ban however it wasn’t until later that it was restored and made available for everyone to watch. Fans and crew both regret not being able to include this episode but can at least rejoice as it is available for viewing now.
While animated films can be fun entertainment suitable for kids of all ages, there are certain episodes that can be too sensitive or dangerous for young viewers which is why they get banned from airing on television or releasing on other platforms like DVD or streaming services. These five episodes are just some examples of cartoon episodes that have been deemed too risky by TV networks in order to keep children safe while still providing them with quality entertainment options!
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