The Boondocks

About The Boondocks

The Boondocks is an animated television series that premiered on Cartoon Network's late-night programming block, Adult Swim, in 2005. It is created by Aaron McGruder and based on his comic strip of the same name. The show focuses on the Freemans, an African-American family - brothers Huey and Riley, and their grandfather Robert who moved from the South Side of Chicago to the suburban Woodcrest community. The series presents cultural and political satire, often grappling with numerous racial issues.

Making / Production

The Boondocks was developed by Aaron McGruder for Cartoon Network's Adult Swim. The animation services were provided by Korean studio, JM Animation initially, and later Moi Animation. Sony Pictures Television became the production company for the series. The series is a balance of relatable character drama and pointed social commentary.

Actors

• Regina King - King voices both Huey and Riley Freeman. She brings an emotional range to both characters that helped bring them to life.
• John Witherspoon - Known for his role as Robert 'Grandad' Freeman. His unique voice and comic timing made Grandad a standout character in the series.
• Gary Anthony Williams - Provided the voice for Uncle Ruckus. His performance was lauded for the humor and satire he brought to this controversial character.
• Corey Burton - Voiced the character of Ruckus's Caucasian alter ego, politician Ed Wuncler.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The show's theme song was performed by hip-hop artist Asheru.
• The creator of the show, Aaron McGruder, has mentioned that Huey Freeman was largely based on his own childhood.
• The term 'Boondocks' is Tagalog (Philippine language) for 'mountain'. It's used in American English to mean 'an isolated or wild region'. It reflects the show’s concept about the Freeman family out of their usual urban setting, into the suburbs.

Awards

In 2006, The Boondocks was nominated for the Outstanding Comedy Series at the NAACP Image Awards.

Quotes

• "I am the stone that the builder refused." - Theme song
• "You better not tell anyone we were here selling drugs." - Riley
• "I like to think of Jesus as a mischievous badger." - Uncle Ruckus

Music, Soundtrack

• The theme song, performed by Asheru, sets the tone for the series with its catchy beats and substantive lyrics.
• Several hip-hop and R&B tracks are used throughout the series, reflecting the urban roots of the Freeman family.
• The series also features original score by music producer Metaphor The Great.