The two animated series were released on Adult Swim and Netflix respectively, and some fans are disappointed the two series’ deeply flawed heroes never bumped into each other. Sadly, their different networks prevented a Rick and Morty/BoJack Horseman crossover from ever happening.
Depending on where fans are watching from, it might appear both Rick and Morty (both played by Justin Roiland) and BoJack Horseman (Will Arnett) belonged to the same network.
Both series are available on Netflix in the UK, but while BoJack is an original for the streaming giant Rick and Morty originally aired on Adult Swim.
The channel is a subsidiary of Cartoon Network, and prioritises adult-oriented animation, a perfect home for the irreverent and troubling intergalactic adventures of a drunken scientist.
Digital Spy recently outlined how, even beyond their incompatible networks, the two shows have a lot of fundamental differences despite what they have in common.
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They said: “Rick and Morty occasionally explores issues like family and divorce, but the spectacle of their sci-fi adventures is ultimately the only thing that matters.
They continued to say that any deeper meaning is “quickly forgotten at the end of each episode when the story resets most of the characters to their default selves.”
BoJack Horseman consistently addressed its protagonist deeply held desire to change but frustrating refusal to do so in its sombre and reflective series finale.
While both series feature surreal moments and offbeat humour, the two shows have a very different ethos when it comes to character development.
Of course, with BoJack Horseman concluding its run on Netflix the iconic animated character has finished his arc and could be available for guest appearances in the future.
However, this would be a little out of character for both BoJack and the creators of the show, which has favoured more insular storytelling to universe expansion.
That hasn’t stopped little references sneaking in, with fans’ excitement reaching an all time high when a snippet of dialogue from Rick and Morty made it into the background of Horsin’ Around, Bojack’s popular 80s sitcom.
The repeated lines from a malfunctioning alien simulation “looking good” and “my man!” are referenced in the first season.
