Classic animation fans have a new reason to celebrate as MeTV Toons, the retro cartoon network from Weigel Broadcasting, officially launched on DIRECTV channel 295, filling the void left by the shutdown of Universal Kids earlier this year. The channel, which debuted on June 25, 2024, is now available to DIRECTV subscribers on both satellite and streaming platforms, marking a significant expansion for the network dedicated to timeless animated series. This was offically announced last week by its parent company. T This move brings a wave of nostalgia to viewers, offering a robust lineup of beloved cartoons from decades past.
MeTV Toons, a collaboration between Weigel Broadcasting and Warner Bros. Discovery, specializes in classic animation, featuring iconic shows such as Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo, The Flintstones, The Jetsons, Tom and Jerry, Yogi Bear, and Popeye. The network also includes third-party series from NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures Television, WildBrain, and Shout! Studios, spanning from the 1930s to the 2010s. With programming blocks like Cartoon All-Stars (Monday through Saturday at 10:00 p.m. ET) and House of Hanna-Barbera (weekdays from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET), MeTV Toons delivers a diverse array of animated classics, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.
The addition of MeTV Toons to DIRECTV follows the channel’s replacement of Universal Kids, which ceased operations in March 2025. DIRECTV subscribers can now access MeTV Toons on channel 295, integrated into the Choice package and above, as well as in DIRECTV’s new genre-based packs. The channel’s launch on both satellite and streaming services ensures broad accessibility, catering to viewers whether they prefer traditional TV or modern streaming options. According to a statement from Weigel Broadcasting, the multi-year carriage agreement with DIRECTV marks the first time MeTV Toons has secured national clearance on a traditional pay-TV service, a milestone for the network’s growth.
Neal Sabin, vice chairman of Weigel Broadcasting Co., expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Viewers have fallen in love with MeTV Toons, which in just its first year has attracted a passionate and loyal audience. It is exciting to further extend the network’s national reach. With its broad multigenerational appeal, we know MeTV Toons will bring incredible entertainment and joy to DIRECTV subscribers around the country.”
Linda Burakoff, senior vice president of Content & Programming at DIRECTV, highlighted the collaborative nature of the agreement, noting, “DIRECTV and Weigel have always found innovative ways to work with one another to create mutual value. Based on early fan response, we know there are many customers who’ve been very anxious to see MeTV Toons, so we are very pleased to make it available to our streaming, satellite, and genre pack subscribers.”
The launch comes amid speculation about the future of other cartoon networks, with some fans suggesting MeTV Toons could eventually overshadow channels like Boomerang. For now, DIRECTV subscribers can tune into channel 295 to enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane with MeTV Toons’ extensive library of animated classics.
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