Netflix to Release Official Documentary on Legendary Animation Studio Hanna-Barbera in
In a major celebration of animation history, Netflix has announced that it will release an official documentary chronicling the legacy of the iconic Hanna-Barbera animation studio in July 2025. The highly anticipated feature-length documentary will explore the remarkable journey of William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, the visionary duo behind some of the most beloved cartoons in television history. With exclusive interviews, archival footage, and never-before-seen content, the documentary aims to honor the enduring impact Hanna-Barbera has had on generations of fans and the broader animation industry.
### A Storied Legacy
Founded in 1957, Hanna-Barbera quickly rose to prominence with the creation of “The Huckleberry Hound Show,” followed by a parade of groundbreaking series like *The Flintstones*, *Yogi Bear*, *The Jetsons*, *Scooby-Doo*, *Tom and Jerry*, and *The Smurfs*. The studio’s blend of humor, colorful characters, and accessible animation style revolutionized television animation, paving the way for cartoons to become a daily staple in households across America and around the world.
Hanna-Barbera’s cost-effective animation techniques—often criticized but undeniably effective—allowed the company to produce content at a scale previously unseen in the industry. Their innovative use of limited animation made it possible to deliver weekly episodes on tight budgets and schedules, forever changing how animated television was made. Despite the constraints, the characters they created were rich in personality and charm, captivating audiences young and old.
### What to Expect from the Documentary
Netflix’s upcoming documentary, tentatively titled *Hanna-Barbera: The Cartoon Kings*, is being produced in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery, which currently owns the Hanna-Barbera library. The documentary will include rare behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with animation historians, former Hanna-Barbera employees, voice actors, and contemporary animators who were influenced by the studio’s legacy.
A key focus of the film will be the partnership between William Hanna and Joseph Barbera—a collaboration that spanned over six decades. From their early days at MGM Studios creating *Tom and Jerry* to launching their own studio and transforming children’s entertainment, the documentary will trace their path as industry trailblazers.
The film will also explore the cultural significance of their most famous creations. Shows like *The Flintstones*—which was the first animated series to air in prime time—broke new ground in content and format. Similarly, *Scooby-Doo* became a multi-generational phenomenon that continues to thrive more than 50 years after its debut. These programs didn’t just entertain; they reflected the social attitudes of their times, introduced catchphrases into popular vernacular, and shaped the identity of Saturday morning television.
### Voices of the Industry
The documentary will feature interviews with major figures in the animation world, including Seth MacFarlane, Genndy Tartakovsky, Rebecca Sugar, and Matt Groening—all of whom cite Hanna-Barbera as a formative influence. Voice acting legends such as Frank Welker and Tara Strong are also expected to share their experiences and perspectives on the studio’s legacy.
In a statement, Netflix’s head of documentary programming, Lisa Nishimura, said, “Hanna-Barbera didn’t just create cartoons—they created a language of laughter and a world of imagination that defined childhood for generations. This documentary is a love letter to the creativity, innovation, and spirit of collaboration that animated their work.”
### A Cultural Milestone
The timing of the documentary coincides with a resurgence of interest in classic animation and nostalgia-driven content. With many Hanna-Barbera characters being reintroduced in modern formats—from reboots to cameo appearances in new Warner Bros. films—there’s a renewed appreciation for the artistry and storytelling that characterized their original runs.
In addition, the documentary aims to critically examine the studio’s history, including its controversial use of racial and cultural stereotypes in some early programming. It will explore how the studio evolved and responded to changing cultural norms and how its legacy continues to be re-evaluated in the 21st century.
### Anticipation Builds
Fans, historians, and animation enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the release of *Hanna-Barbera: The Cartoon Kings*. Social media buzz has already begun, with many expressing excitement over the chance to learn more about the creators behind the characters that shaped their childhoods. For older generations, the film promises a nostalgic return to simpler Saturday mornings; for younger viewers, it offers an introduction to the giants whose shoulders today’s animators stand on.
Whether you grew up with the futuristic antics of *The Jetsons*, the prehistoric humor of *The Flintstones*, or the mystery-solving fun of *Scooby-Doo*, this documentary promises to be a must-watch tribute to two men whose influence on animation remains unmatched.
As July 2025 approaches, Netflix is expected to unveil trailers, promotional content, and perhaps even interactive experiences celebrating Hanna-Barbera’s storied past. One thing is certain: the world is ready to revisit the zany, colorful, and endlessly creative universe of Hanna-Barbera.
