Adult Swim’s offbeat animated hit Smiling Friends is officially coming to an end. Creators and stars Michael Cusack and Zach Hadel announced that the series will conclude after its third season, calling the decision a personal and creative one.
In a candid video shared by Adult Swim, Hadel made it clear from the start that the announcement was serious. The duo explained that after completing Season 3, they both felt a sense of exhaustion—but also accomplishment. Having poured years of energy into the show, they realized it might be the right moment to step away.
From the beginning, Cusack and Hadel said their goal was to give the series “110%” and leave while still feeling proud of the work. Rather than risk dragging the show out or producing episodes without passion, they chose to end on a high note. As Hadel put it, they would rather have audiences wanting more than wondering why the show is still on the air.
Importantly, the decision was not forced by the network. Cusack emphasized that Adult Swim was supportive, even encouraging them to take a break and return in the future if inspiration strikes. While there’s no confirmation of a revival, the creators left the door open to potentially revisiting the world of Smiling Friends someday.
Fans won’t have to say goodbye just yet. Two previously unreleased Season 3 episodes are set to air on April 12. The creators clarified that these installments are not intended as a grand finale, but rather standalone episodes that didn’t make the original season rollout.
The announcement is bittersweet for viewers who embraced the show’s surreal humor, chaotic energy and unexpected emotional beats. Still, Cusack and Hadel expressed gratitude for the fan support, calling the experience “the ride of a lifetime.”
By choosing to end the series on their own terms, the creators are prioritizing creative integrity over longevity—ensuring that Smiling Friends remains remembered for its originality and bold spirit rather than overstaying its welcome.
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