Warner Bros officially started the demolition process of Building 131, where Looney Tunes was based. This move is part of the studio’s plan to convert its Burbank lot into new productions for HBO. Even with its rich past in animation, the building will not be rebuilt.
Industry professionals and enthusiasts have been dismayed by the demolition, seeing it as symptomatic of Warner Bros’ recent treatment of its timeless properties. The move follows the removal of the Looney Tunes shorts from HBO Max, and viewers were left with limited access to the classic cartoons.
‘Looney Tunes’ fans react to Warner Bros.’ decision to scrub ‘Looney Tunes’ for good
Lovers of Looney Tunes have come out against Warner Bros., taking to the internet to condemn the company’s move. Some have viewed the destruction as a personal assault on the franchise, stating that the studio does not care anymore about the legacy of its beloved cartoon characters. Others have called for the original Looney Tunes shorts to be released to the public.
A Reddit user said the demolition is a perfect metaphor for Warner Bros‘ current direction, echoing growing frustration among long-time fans. Another pointed out that Looney Tunes helped build Warner Bros’ reputation and deserved better respect. With the franchise’s original works getting increasingly difficult to find, many believe these changes mark the end of an era.
The future of ‘Looney Tunes’
Despite the loss of the original animation building, Looney Tunes’ legacy will be kept alive in its new forms. Warner Bros has been producing spin-off series such as Looney Tunes Cartoons and Tiny Toons Looniversity. There has also been a new animated film titled The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Story, which has received positive reviews.
Despite the disappointment, there is still hope that Warner Bros will find ways to keep Looney Tunes going somehow. This might be in the form of digital releases, fresh adaptations, or public repositories, as fans demand more recognition of the franchise’s legacy.