Cartoon Network's Most Iconic Character Is Getting Their Own Anime After 57 Years

6 days ago 12

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For decades, Scooby-Doo has been one of Cartoon Network’s most recognizable faces, surviving countless reboots, tonal shifts, and generational handoffs. Now, the cowardly Great Dane is preparing for one of the most unexpected transformations yet. Warner Bros. is reportedly developing an anime-inspired Scooby-Doo project, slated for release in 2027.

The short-form series, titled Scooby-Doo! Gokko, was quietly revealed during a brand launch event in Brazil via @ToonHive on X, not a traditional animation showcase. That low-key reveal hasn’t stopped the news from igniting curiosity. An anime-styled Scooby-Doo signals a major stylistic pivot, and possibly the start of a broader strategy for Warner Bros.’ classic characters.

A Chibi Makeover for Mystery Inc.

Rather than a full-length episodic anime, Scooby-Doo! Gokko is expected to follow a short-form format with a cute, simplified visual style. The approach mirrors Tom & Jerry Gokko, which reimagined its slapstick icons as chibi characters influenced by Japanese kawaii aesthetics. Scooby and the gang appear headed for a similarly adorable reinvention.

The word “gokko” itself refers to children’s role-playing games in Japanese, hinting at a softer, playful tone. Instead of spooky scares or complex mysteries, this version likely emphasizes charm and visual humor. It wouldn’t be the first time Scooby-Doo skewed younger, but this would be its most stylized departure yet.

Visually, the series is expected to lean heavily into anime-inspired design cues, with rounded proportions and expressive reactions. While details remain scarce, the tone suggests an accessible, globally friendly take on Mystery Inc., designed to appeal to younger viewers and anime fans alike.

How This Fits Warner Bros.’ Anime Playbook

Velma, Daphne, Shaggy, Scooby, and Fred in the Mystery Machine in Scooby-Doo Where Are You?

Scooby-Doo’s anime makeover didn’t come out of nowhere. Warner Bros. has spent years experimenting with Japanese animation styles, both through co-productions and original projects. From Powerpuff Girls Z to Batman Ninja and Suicide Squad Isekai, the studio has repeatedly tested how Western icons translate through an anime lens.

Cartoon Network itself has long embraced anime influence. Series like Teen Titans, Ben 10, and even We Bare Bears have borrowed heavily from anime visual language. Adult Swim pushed even further, producing original anime and collaborating directly with Japanese studios on ambitious projects.

There’s also some speculation that Scooby-Doo! Gokko could be connected to the previously announced Go-Go Mystery Machine concept. While that link remains unconfirmed, both projects point toward the same idea of reintroducing Scooby-Doo through Asian-inspired aesthetics. If successful, Gokko could become a template for reimagining other Warner Bros. staples in similar fashion.

For now, details are limited, but the direction is clear. Scooby-Doo isn’t just chasing ghosts anymore, he’s stepping into the anime spotlight.