BoJack Horseman

Once the most adored sitcom star of the 1990s, BoJack Horseman is now a washed-up, alcoholic actor living in Hollywood. Two decades after his hit show ended, he copes with regret, stalled opportunities and self-sabotage while trying to rebuild a meaningful life. He hires Diane Nguyen to help him write a memoir, Princess Carolyn manages his erratic career, Todd Chavez offers chaotic optimism, and Mr. Peanutbutter provides a relentlessly cheerful foil. Set in a world where humans and anthropomorphic animals coexist, the series pairs a satirical take on fame with surreal visuals and quieter, painful moments, following BoJack's attempts at reconciliation, career moves and the consequences of choices without promising neat resolutions. Episodes shift tone, often quiet and sometimes painfully raw.

Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg and premiering in 2014, BoJack Horseman features lead voices from Will Arnett, Alison Brie, Amy Sedaris, Paul F. Tompkins and Aaron Paul, and the series ran several seasons. Its animation mixes stylized visuals with expressive acting.

The series earned multiple major award nominations, including Emmy nods for standout episodes and guest performances, and it received recognition from critics groups and animation industry organizations during its run, and continued to appear on year-end lists. Critics polls and industry blogs often featured episodes.

BoJack reshaped expectations for adult animation, helping make room for frank portrayals of depression, addiction and the costs of fame. Its tone and imagery entered pop culture, inspired discussion across social media and influenced later shows that mix dark subject matter with animated form, prompting critical essays and online debate.

Critics and audiences responded strongly, reflected in a vote average of 8.546/10 from thousands of ratings. Reviewers praised its layered characters, sharp dialogue and emotional honesty, while noting its bleak moments and unflinching look at identity, addiction, celebrity and interpersonal damage. Will Arnett's performance drew regular praise. It remains influential.