Many 1970s cartoons are remembered primarily for the merchandise they spawned. Perhaps that’s why few recall the short-lived animated series The Spooky Bunch, which aired briefly in the 1978-1979 season before protests from conservative groups led to its cancellation.

The Spooky Bunch was a transitory, troubled brand that never justified food products, apparel, school supplies or a live-action movie. The show drew fire for its occult content and morally ambiguous storylines — and especially for its gender-bending lead character, Jule Day. Critics found the rousing “Theme from The Spooky Bunch” to be overtly sexual and subversive.

They were right. And that’s why we like it! Full story...


listen: Theme from The Spooky Bunch

more: How a racy cartoon became the Moral Majority’s first media trophy…

extra! Spooky Bunch creator Lowen Bell explains how only teenage sex can save our species from the Zildars and Aracleons...