Tom & Jerry, the famous animation Created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, it has won over generations since its debut in 1940. Coming from the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) studio, the series remained on display until 1958.
However, a 1956 episode titled “Blue Cat Blues” raised many eyebrows for its unusually dark content.
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In “Blue Cat Blues,” we see Tom the cat sitting wistfully on train tracks. In the episode, Jerry narrates the events that led his eternal rival to this state. The story reveals that Tom fell in love with a white cat and did everything he could to please her.
However, the cat chooses Butch, a wealthier feline. Devastated, Tom turns to milk, in a parallel with alcoholism.
The plot becomes even darker when Jerry also faces disappointments in love. Both characters end the episode on track, hinting at a tragic ending.
After “Blue Cat Blues”, the studio released “Tot Watchers” in 1958, in which the protagonists get into trouble with a baby.
This is the episode officially recognized as the finale of the first version of the series. However, “Blue Cat Blues” is remembered by many as the last, due to its dark tone.
The repercussion among fans
The discovery of “Blue Cat Blues” and its more serious approach generated diverse reactions among the series’ followers.
While some admired the creators' courage in tackling denser themes, others felt uncomfortable with the narrative's turn.
Since its creation, Tom & Jerry has gone through several phases, styles and narratives. The episode “Blue Cat Blues” is just one example of how the series, despite being aimed at children, knew how to reinvent itself and adapt to the changes and demands of its audience.
Tom & Jerry today
Regardless of the controversies, Tom & Jerry returned in new adventures and films, proving that the characters are still alive and mischievous as always.