Adult Swim (Stylized as [adult swim]) is an American adult-oriented nighttime programming block of the children's basic cable network Cartoon Network. It is programmed by its in-house production studio, Williams Street. It currently broadcasts nightly from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. ET/PT. The block is marketed as a separate network from Cartoon Network for ratings purposes, similar to Nick at Nite, the nighttime branding of Nickelodeon.
Debuting in 2001, Adult Swim serves as the nighttime identity of Cartoon Network, and was established as alternative programming during the late night hours when Cartoon Network's primary target audience, children between the ages of 7 and 15, would normally be sleeping. In 2005, the block was granted its own Nielsen ratings report from Cartoon Network due to targeting a separate demographic. The block features stylistically varied animated and live-action shows; including original programming, syndicated series, anime, original video animation, and short films with generally minimal or no editing for content.
Adult Swim has frequently aired adult animation features, mockumentaries, sketch comedy, and pilots. The block's shows are known for their sexual themes, frank sexual discussion, nudity, strong language, and graphic violence. Many of its programs are esthetically experimental, transgressive, improvised, and surrealist in nature. Adult Swim has contracted with various studios known for their productions in absurd and shock comedy.
As with Cartoon Network, Adult Swim's reach through various services totals 94 million American households. The Canadian version of Adult Swim launched as a late-night programming block on Cartoon Network Canada on July 4, 2012; and as a standalone channel on April 1, 2019.