Fans of the wildly popular animated series Rick and Morty can rejoice as Adult Swim has officially announced that Season 8 will premiere on May 25, 2025, at 11:00 PM ET/PT. This announcement was made during the network's traditional April Fools' Day broadcast special, which also featured a 22-minute anthology of fan-favorite moments reimagined through absurd live-action theater genres.
The excitement surrounding the return of Rick and Morty comes after a significant hiatus. Season 7 had already introduced major changes, including the departure of co-creator and lead voice actor Justin Roiland amid allegations of inappropriate behavior. His roles as Rick Sanchez and Morty Smith have now been taken over by voice actors Ian Cardoni and Harry Belden, respectively. The transition has been received positively by fans, who are eager to see how the new cast will continue the show's legacy.
During the April Fools' Day special, Adult Swim not only confirmed the premiere date but also provided a sneak peek of what’s to come. The teaser describes the upcoming season with the phrase, "Rick and Morty is back for Season Eight! Life has meaning again! Anything is possible!" This hints at both the absurdity and depth that fans have come to expect from the series.
Adult Swim President Michael Ouweleen expressed his enthusiasm for the new season, stating, "We hope you enjoyed our theater interpretations of Rick and Morty, especially if you're well-off/impulsive and now want to back a Broadway version of the show. For the rest of you, we're glad you now know when Season Eight is starting so you have time to stretch and get loose because the team has yet again made a totally great season of television." This playful remark reflects the network's commitment to blending humor with innovative storytelling.
The eighth season is part of a broader plan that Adult Swim has for Rick and Morty. In 2018, the series was renewed for an impressive 70 episodes, a move that showcased its immense popularity. Following the conclusion of Season 7, the network announced further renewals through Seasons 11 and 12, suggesting that fans can look forward to at least 120 episodes in total. This extensive order solidifies Rick and Morty as one of Adult Swim's longest-running animated originals.
Despite the production delays caused by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, which affected the release schedule for Season 8, the anticipation has only grown among fans. The show has taken a break throughout 2024, with the exception of the Rick and Morty: The Anime spin-off, which kept some fans engaged during the wait.
As the series gears up for its return, it's important to note that Rick and Morty has consistently pushed the boundaries of animated storytelling. The show follows the misadventures of Rick, a genius scientist, and his timid grandson Morty, as they navigate through various dimensions and face bizarre challenges. The series has garnered critical acclaim, winning two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Animated Program and maintaining its status as the #1 comedy on cable during its third through sixth seasons.
The upcoming season promises to strike a balance between episodic storytelling and overarching narratives, allowing both casual viewers and dedicated fans to enjoy the series. Showrunner Scott Marder has hinted at a "ten season saga," with plans already in motion for Season 10. Marder explained, "If people are on board with what we’ve been doing the past couple seasons, we’re intending to give them more of that. But there are certainly arcs and cool things and big surprises in store." This commitment to long-term storytelling has been a hallmark of the series and is likely to keep viewers engaged.
In addition to the main storyline, fans can expect to see familiar characters returning, including Summer, Jerry, and both versions of Beth. The teaser even suggests that Butter Bot may have a new task, adding to the excitement of what’s to come.
For those eager to catch up, Season 8 will be accessible to fans in over 170 countries, with episodes available for purchase in the U.S. the day after they air on Adult Swim. Streaming options will also open up on September 1, 2025, making it easier for fans to binge-watch the new episodes.
As Rick and Morty prepares for its return, the anticipation is palpable. With its unique blend of humor, science fiction, and social commentary, the series has carved out a significant place in pop culture. Fans are undoubtedly looking forward to the new season and the unexpected adventures that await them. Whether you're a longtime follower of the show or a newcomer curious about the hype, the countdown to May 25 is officially on.
