When Does BoJack Horseman Get Good?
A good first season that should present enough information to a new viewer to help guide if they want to keep going, but BoJack Horseman is known for its middle and later seasons. Give this series at least through the second season to really get to the good stuff.
What Fans Say
Fans of BoJack Horseman praise it as one of the most unique and emotionally profound animated series ever created. The show’s ability to balance dark humor with deep, introspective themes about mental illness, addiction, fame, and personal growth makes it stand out. Many admire the show’s willingness to tackle difficult subject matter while maintaining a surreal, often absurd comedic tone. The character development, particularly BoJack’s slow, painful journey toward self-awareness, resonates deeply with viewers. The show is also lauded for its inventive animation, clever wordplay, and willingness to experiment with storytelling formats, such as the near-silent underwater episode or the emotionally raw monologue episode, “Free Churro.”
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What Haters Say
Critics of BoJack Horseman argue that the show can be excessively bleak, making it difficult to watch. Some feel that BoJack’s repeated cycle of self-destruction, apology, and relapse grows frustrating over time, making the character difficult to root for. Others believe the humor, often laced with cynicism, undercuts the show’s emotional weight. Additionally, some viewers find the anthropomorphic world inconsistent or too bizarre for their taste. The series’ slower, more reflective pacing in later seasons has also been a point of contention for those who prefer a more traditional sitcom structure.
Does the Show Fall Off in Quality at Any Point?
Many fans agree that BoJack Horseman maintains a high level of quality throughout its run, though some feel that the earlier seasons had a sharper satirical edge. The latter seasons shift more towards introspection and drama, which some viewers appreciated while others missed the biting Hollywood satire. Season 6, which was split into two parts, received some criticism for feeling rushed in its resolution of BoJack’s arc, but it is largely regarded as a fitting conclusion.
Aggregated Critic Commentary
Critics have consistently praised BoJack Horseman for its sharp writing, complex character arcs, and bold storytelling choices. Many consider it one of the best animated series of all time. However, some critics have pointed out that its heavy subject matter and morally ambiguous protagonist can be alienating.
| Season | Rotten Tomatoes Score | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 71% | 8.1 |
| 2 | 100% | 8.6 |
| 3 | 97% | 8.5 |
| 4 | 97% | 8.7 |
| 5 | 98% | 8.5 |
| 6 | 96% | 8.6 |
Overview of the Show
BoJack Horseman is a dark comedy-drama that follows the life of BoJack, a washed-up sitcom star from the ’90s who struggles with addiction, depression, and the consequences of his past actions. Set in a world where humans and anthropomorphic animals coexist, the show satirizes Hollywood while diving into deep existential themes. BoJack’s interactions with his agent Princess Carolyn, his slacker roommate Todd, his ghostwriter Diane, and his rival Mr. Peanutbutter form the emotional core of the series. Across six seasons, the show explores his attempts at redemption, the cycles of self-destruction he can’t escape, and the long-lasting effects of trauma on himself and those around him.
Season-by-Season Highlights
Season 1 (2014)
The show starts as a Hollywood satire, following BoJack’s attempts to write a memoir with ghostwriter Diane Nguyen. It introduces key characters and establishes BoJack’s self-destructive tendencies. Initially seen as just another animated comedy, the show reveals its emotional depth in episodes like “Downer Ending,” where BoJack experiences a drug-fueled breakdown.
Season 2 (2015)
With the success of his memoir, BoJack lands a dream role playing Secretariat. However, his self-loathing and destructive habits persist. This season deepens his relationships with Diane and Princess Carolyn while highlighting his inability to find happiness. The season finale, “Escape from L.A.,” features one of BoJack’s lowest moments, as he ruins a young girl’s life.
Season 3 (2016)
BoJack experiences professional success as Secretariat is released, but he spirals further into self-destruction. Episodes like “Fish Out of Water” showcase the show’s willingness to take creative risks. Sarah Lynn’s tragic overdose marks one of the show’s most heartbreaking moments, showing the consequences of BoJack’s actions.
Season 4 (2017)
This season shifts focus to BoJack’s strained family history, particularly his relationship with his mother, Beatrice. He also discovers he may have a daughter, Hollyhock, which forces him to confront his own past trauma. The episode “Time’s Arrow” provides an emotional look at Beatrice’s descent into dementia, cementing the season as one of the show’s most heartbreaking.
Season 5 (2018)
BoJack stars in a new show, Philbert, which mirrors his own struggles. The season critiques the glorification of troubled men in media while forcing BoJack to confront his worsening addiction. “Free Churro” stands out as an emotionally raw episode consisting entirely of a single eulogy monologue. BoJack’s violent outburst toward his co-star Gina marks a turning point in how others perceive him.
Season 6 (2019-2020)
The final season follows BoJack’s journey to rehab and his attempts to make amends. However, his past actions catch up to him, culminating in a haunting penultimate episode that questions whether he truly deserves redemption. The series finale, “Nice While It Lasted,” provides a bittersweet ending, reinforcing the idea that real change is a lifelong process.
Similar Shows
- Rick and Morty – Shares dark humor and existential themes, though with a sci-fi twist.
- The Midnight Gospel – Another animated show that blends deep philosophical discussions with surreal storytelling.
- Tuca & Bertie – Created by BoJack alum Lisa Hanawalt, this show offers a lighter yet equally insightful look at mental health and relationships.
- F is for Family – A more grounded, emotionally-driven animated show about flawed characters and family dysfunction.
- Moral Orel – A darkly satirical show that tackles heavy themes in a unique animated format.
If You Liked These, You’ll Like BoJack Horseman
- Mad Men – Both shows explore self-destructive protagonists in the entertainment industry grappling with their past.
- The Sopranos – Similar in its deep character study of a morally ambiguous lead dealing with addiction and guilt.
- Wilfred – A surreal comedy about mental illness and existential crises, featuring a talking dog.
- Fleabag – A sharp, introspective comedy-drama with a flawed protagonist seeking redemption.