From the exploration of loss and grief to the struggles of growing up, here are 10 saddest cartoon episodes that had us reaching for the tissues. Cartoons aren’t just for kids—they’re a powerful medium that can evoke deep emotions,
tell complex stories, and even bring us to tears. Over the past decade, animators have pushed the boundaries of what we expect from cartoons, giving us moments of heartbreak, reflection, and pure sadness.
Time’s Arrow – BoJack Horseman
BoJack Horseman has never shied away from tackling heavy topics, but “Time’s Arrow” is a particularly gut-wrenching episode. This episode delves into the tragic backstory of BoJack’s mother, Beatrice, revealing the traumas that shaped her cold, bitter personality.
Through a series of flashbacks and hallucinations, we see Beatrice’s painful memories of her family, her failed marriage, and the loss of her brother. The episode is a haunting exploration of generational trauma and mental illness, leaving viewers with a profound sense of sadness and empathy for a character who was previously painted as irredeemable.
The View from Halfway Down – BoJack Horseman
Staying with BoJack Horseman, “The View from Halfway Down” is arguably the most devastating episode in the entire series. As BoJack teeters between life and death, he experiences a surreal, haunting dinner party with figures from his past who have all died.
The episode is a masterclass in exploring existential dread and the consequences of one’s actions. The poignant moment comes during a poetic and terrifying sequence where BoJack faces the reality of his choices. The episode ends on an ambiguous note, leaving fans emotionally wrecked and contemplating the show’s deeper meanings.
Reunited – Steven Universe
Steven Universe has been praised for its positive messages and inclusivity, but it’s also delivered some truly heartbreaking moments. In the episode “Reunited,” Steven finally brings his family together for a wedding, only for it to be interrupted by the Diamonds’ devastating attack.
Amidst the chaos, we see the depth of the characters’ pain, particularly Garnet, who is forced to unfuse into Ruby and Sapphire during the battle. The episode beautifully captures the heartbreak of separation and the emotional toll of conflict, all while maintaining the show’s signature warmth and love.
Come Along with Me – Adventure Time
Adventure Time has always balanced its quirky, whimsical exterior with surprisingly deep emotional undercurrents, and its series finale, “Come Along with Me,” is no exception. The episode is filled with bittersweet goodbyes as the characters we’ve grown to love over the years face an uncertain future.
The saddest moment comes during Simon’s (the Ice King) final goodbye to Marceline, a poignant reminder of their deep, complicated relationship. As the show wraps up, the sense of loss and nostalgia is palpable, making it a tearful farewell to one of the most beloved animated series of the decade.
All in the Family – Big Mouth
Big Mouth might be known for its raunchy humor, but it’s also delivered some surprisingly emotional moments. In “All in the Family,” the show tackles the painful subject of parental separation. The episode focuses on Nick, Andrew, and Jessi as they each deal with the turmoil of their families falling apart.
The raw depiction of divorce, coupled with the emotional struggles of adolescence, makes this episode one of the saddest in the series. The characters’ feelings of confusion, anger, and sadness are palpable, making it a heavy but important watch.
The Life and Times of Juniper Lee – Craig of the Creek
Craig of the Creek is a show about childhood adventure, but it also knows how to hit you right in the feels. In “The Life and Times of Juniper Lee,” Craig learns about the history of his family, particularly his grandmother, who was a trailblazing activist.
The episode explores themes of legacy, sacrifice, and the passing of time. The most heart-wrenching moment comes when Craig realizes that the stories of his ancestors are fading with time, and the weight of preserving their legacy falls on him. The episode is a poignant reminder of the importance of family history and the emotional toll of growing up.
Through the Valley of Shadows – Star Trek: Lower Decks
In a series known for its humor and light-hearted take on the Star Trek universe, “Through the Valley of Shadows” takes a surprising turn into emotional territory. The episode follows Ensign Beckett Mariner as she grapples with the possibility of losing a close friend in a dangerous mission.
The normally brash and confident Mariner shows vulnerability as she confronts the reality of mortality and the fear of losing someone she cares about. The episode’s exploration of friendship, loss, and sacrifice is deeply moving, proving that even the most light-hearted shows can pack a powerful emotional punch.
A Day in the Life – The Owl House
The Owl House has become a fan favorite for its rich world-building and lovable characters, but “A Day in the Life” is an episode that stands out for its emotional depth. The episode follows Luz as she tries to come to terms with her place in both the human world and the magical realm of the Boiling
Isles. The episode beautifully captures the feeling of being torn between two worlds and the sadness that comes with realizing you may never fully belong in either. Luz’s struggle with identity and belonging is something many viewers can relate to, making it a poignant and tear-jerking episode.
Elinor’s Dilemma – Elinor Wonders Why
A seemingly light-hearted children’s show, Elinor Wonders Why delivered a surprisingly powerful episode with “Elinor’s Dilemma.” The episode follows Elinor as she struggles with the impending loss of a beloved pet. As she navigates the difficult emotions of grief and acceptance, the show
handles the topic with sensitivity and grace. The final moments, where Elinor says goodbye to her pet, are especially heartbreaking. The episode serves as a gentle yet powerful exploration of loss, making it a standout moment in children’s animation.
Remembrance – Avatar: The Last Airbender
The reboot of Avatar: The Last Airbender in 2023 brought with it all the emotional weight of the original series, and “Remembrance” is an episode that tugs at the heartstrings. The episode focuses on Aang as he reflects on the loss of his people and the weight of his responsibilities as the Avatar.
The flashbacks to his time in the Southern Air Temple, coupled with his ongoing struggle to find peace with his past, make this episode an emotional rollercoaster. The themes of loss, responsibility, and the search for redemption are handled beautifully, making it one of the saddest episodes in the series.
From exploring the depths of grief and loss to dealing with the complexities of growing up, these 10 saddest cartoon episodes prove that cartoons can be just as emotionally impactful as any live-action drama.
Whether it’s the surreal heartbreak of BoJack Horseman or the tender moments of Steven Universe, these episodes remind us that animation is a powerful tool for storytelling. So, next time you’re in the mood for a good cry, you know where to turn—just make sure to have some tissues handy.
