The hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork has been trending on X (formerly known as Twitter), fueled by rumors that the channel might be closing down. The trend began after the X account "Animation Workers Ignited" posted an animation declaring that "Cartoon Network is essentially dead." The post also mentioned that other animation studios are experiencing similar difficulties, primarily due to layoffs in the industry.

The animation described, "Cartoon Network is essentially dead, and other big animation studios are not far behind. What happened to all the animation workers? Many are unemployed in record numbers, with some jobless for over a year, despite carrying the industry during the pandemic. When COVID first hit, animation was able to operate completely remotely, making it one of the only forms of entertainment that could continue production uninterrupted. But studios repaid them by canceling projects, outsourcing jobs, and laying off artists en masse."

#RIPCartoonNetwork: Viral Impact and Social Media Response

The video blamed these problems on corporate greed, stating that large studios boosted their profits by cutting costs and laying off employees, which benefited CEOs and executives. It encouraged viewers to share their favorite Cartoon Network shows using the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork and to follow the account for more information on how to support the cause.

The clip rapidly went viral, amassing over three million views within four hours. Social media users initially began sharing their favorite cartoons under the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork. One user remarked, "Courage The Cowardly Dog will always be a favorite! It's very sad to hear that the animators were treated so poorly, and hopefully they can find work soon."

RipCartoonNetwork
Image Source: X

Another user remarked, "I'll probably remember that episode of 'The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy when they tried to get her to smile for the rest of my life."

As the hashtag gained momentum, rumors spread that Cartoon Network was closing down for good. However, these claims are unfounded. The account "Animation Workers Ignited," which is linked to the animators' union, is using #RIPCartoonNetwork to draw attention to the difficulties faced by industry workers. The channel itself is not shutting down.

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