Updated December 25, 2024
Did you know André 3000 had a cartoon? Apparently, it was on Cartoon Network. Given André 3000 and Big Boys popularity separately and collectively as Outkasts, it’s surprising that Class of 3000 is a hidden gem? How did this show only get two seasons? Why did Cartoon Network casually share this info During Black History Month? Not going to lie. I feel some kind of way about that. Is this a dig at André 3000 or regret that it was cancelled before it could fully bloom? Either way, I had to find out more about it.
What’s Class of 3000
The Class of 3000 is about an Atlanta performing arts school grad who ditches a successful music career to become a music teacher. His class of misfits and outcast embark on a musical journey within Atlanta. It debuted on Cartoon Network in 2007. Based on how its been treated, I assumed this was a “one and done” kind of show. The style is a bit eccentric a long with diverse characters. In my opinion, it helps viewers see themselves in the show. Whether that’s appearance or personality, it makes kids feel like they’re in class.
The show is like if you put The Magic School Bus in a deep fryer and put a side of yams next to it.
David Dennis Jr., Andscape, “André 3000 on the 10th anniversary of his ‘Class of 3000’ soundtrack”
At this time, the arts and music were facing budget cuts in public schools. One could argue that the show was providing music education to the masses. The catchy songs were created by André 3000. This made them relatable for kids and tolerable for adults.
It’s Got All The Right Elements
In my opinion, there was a demographic for this. For one, the show was centered around a music teacher with the voice and likeness of André 3000. This would make the show appeal to children, teens, and their parents. Of the three, the parents hold the most significance, because they typically regulate screentime. Similar to how Bluey is so popular theirs adult size merch. Class of 3000 earned a Primetime Emmy in 2007 for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation and was nominated for a NCAAP award in 2008.
Where Did It Go Wrong
As the show name implies, Class of 3000 was ahead of its time. Meaning, it was restricted by season inconsistent air time. Keep in mind, streaming was in its early conception back then, and On Demand was just becoming accessible. Since it’s schedule wasn’t consistent, it was difficult for Class of 3000 to keep high ratings.
Class of 3000 simply came at a time when Cartoon Network was transitioning from landmark kid-friendly shows such as Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack and The Powerpuff Girls to its Adult Swim imprint.
David Dennis Jr., Andscape, “André 3000 on the 10th anniversary of his ‘Class of 3000’ soundtrack
Having a terrible time slot, doesn’t mean a show will flop. After all, Adult Swim was an accessible way for teens to get access to anime. Sometimes that meant staying up till 2 a.m. to watch it. If you had a VCR, you could record it and watch it later. Fun fact, I specifically asked for a TV that has a VCR connected one year for this reason.
Ironically, Mike Lazzo, the man that greenlit Class of 3,000 left his position at Cartoon Network for Adult Swim. He admitted in an interview with David Dennis Jr. that the show was a victim of transition. Although Andre 3000 could have tailored the show to and Adult Swim audience, he challenged himself to create musical content for a demographic that had a limited selection at the time.
Final Thoughts
I’m surprised content creators rarely talk about Class of 3000. It’s almost like you had to be there. If you weren’t tuned into Cartoon Network between 2007 and 2008, you were out of luck. After all, low fan base means less collective memory and conversations about it, which is unfortunate. I wish this was the outcome of a poorly animated show, but it wasn’t. Maybe next year, Cartoon Network can air Class of 3000 for Black History month. There’s a nostalga factor there. Not all 90s Babies were teens in the 00s. Why not see how it does in 2025?
P.S. There’s More
Looks like Andrè 3000 is teasing a Class of 3000 revival. It’s to early to tell what will come of it. If you made it this far into the post, I wanted to let you know what’s going on.
Magnify Your Style 
It’s vague. Perhaps before they were ready. I’ll have to search it on YouTube to see it.
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