#RIPCartoonNetwork trends on X. Is the channel shutting down? Here's the truth

#RIPCartoonNetwork has emerged as a big trend on social media X, which left users wondering if the channel is shutting down.

The trend began when X account "Animation Workers Ignited" posted an animation which said that "Cartoon Networkis essentially dead."

The post seemed to suggest the challenges being faced in the world of animation, especially amidlayoffsin the industry.

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How #RIPCartoonNetwork trend started?

X account "Animation Workers Ignited" shared a post in which it stated, "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 cancelling projects, outsourcing jobs, and laying off artists en masse."

"But why would they do that?! Why else? Greed! Big studios make their finances look better by reducing spending and cutting staff, and CEOs and executives reaping the monetary benefits for themselves. So they wanna reap, huh? I'll show them reap! I don't think you'll be doing much with a plastic scythe, But you can help by spreading the word. Post about your favourite Cartoon Network shows you wish were still around using #RIPCartoonNetwork and #StayTuned for more ways to help TAG (The Animation Guild) by following this account. Animation is under attack. Which side are you on?," the video further said.

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So, is Cartoon Network shutting down?

The video went viral quickly and received more than three million views in less than four hours.

The users of X started sharing their favourite cartoons with the use of the hashtag #RIPCartoonNetwork.

One user wrote, "Courage The Cowardly Dog will always be a favourite! It’s very sad to hear that the animators were treated so poorly, and hopefully, they can find work soon!"

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Another user said, "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 trended, rumours started circulating regarding the permanent shutdown of the Cartoon Network.

Such reports are false as the hashtag was used to highlight the changes being faced by the industry workers. The channel is definitely not shutting down and continues to telecast your favourite cartoon shows.

Meanwhile, Cartoon Network slammed the reports and issued a statement saying that there was no truth to the news.

In a statement shared with WION, a representative of the channel said, "Cartoon Network would like to clarify that there is no truth to the speculation that the network or the studio is shutting down. With a number of recently announced greenlights, we remain committed to continually investing in innovative content that entertains and inspires our viewers across the globe."

(With inputs from agencies)