Here are 8 fascinating facts about the Beetlejuice animated series (1989–1991), one of the most imaginative cartoon adaptations of its time:
1. Tim Burton Helped Shape It — but It Took a Lighter Turn
While based on Burton’s 1988 film, the cartoon reimagined Beetlejuice as more mischievous than malevolent. Burton served as executive producer, helping maintain its surreal, gothic tone while making it suitable for kids.
2. Lydia and Beetlejuice Became Best Friends
Unlike the movie’s uneasy relationship, the cartoon turned Beetlejuice and Lydia into close friends who went on adventures between the “Neitherworld” and the living world.
3. The “Neitherworld” Was a Visual Wonderland
The show’s otherworldly realm was filled with bizarre puns, absurd creatures, and Escher-like designs — a visual playground that rivaled the movie’s creativity.
4. It Won a Daytime Emmy Award
In 1990, Beetlejuice won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program, beating out several major competitors.
5. Stephen Ouimette Voiced Beetlejuice
Canadian actor Stephen Ouimette voiced the title character, perfectly capturing the manic, pun-filled energy originally brought to life by Michael Keaton.
6. Aired on Both ABC and Fox Kids
Unusually, it aired simultaneously on two networks — ABC on Saturdays and Fox weekdays — each with slightly different episode rotations.
7. Lydia Became a Goth Icon
Her black dress, poetic personality, and love of the macabre turned Lydia into a cultural touchstone for early ’90s “goth girls” in animation.
8. It Spawned Toys, Books, and a Theme Park Show
The series inspired a range of Beetlejuice merchandise, comic books, and even a Universal Studios live show, keeping its weird charm alive long after it ended.
