Adult Swim announced that Rick and Morty season 9 will premiere this spring in May, with creators explicitly promising "No AI slop! Just Grade A organic slop" in response to growing industry concerns about artificial intelligence in animation production. The announcement comes as the long-running sci-fi comedy series continues its exploration of interdimensional adventures and scientific chaos.
The series, known for its complex multiverse narratives and scientific concepts ranging from quantum mechanics to genetic engineering, has maintained its position as one of Adult Swim's flagship properties since its 2013 debut. Season 9 will continue the show's tradition of blending hard science fiction with dark comedy, often incorporating real scientific theories into its otherworldly storylines.
The May 2024 release follows the typical production timeline for the series, which has experienced various delays over its decade-long run due to creative differences and production challenges. Previous seasons have averaged 18-24 month gaps between releases, making this spring launch consistent with recent scheduling patterns.
The explicit anti-AI stance reflects broader industry tensions as animation studios grapple with artificial intelligence tools in content creation. Rick and Morty's commitment to human-generated animation positions it against competitors who may embrace AI assistance, potentially setting a precedent for premium animated content that emphasizes traditional craftsmanship over technological efficiency.