2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for ghost-themed animation. From original folklore-inspired series like Kisah Bawah Tanah to major franchise releases such as Ghost in the Shell and Ghostbusters, ghost cartoons are evolving in tone, style, and storytelling ambition.

By 2026, Malaysians are choosing what to watch based less on format and more on whether a story feels relevant. From local animation like Kisah Bawah Tanah to global live-action and animated series, these are the shows shaping how audiences watch, think, and connect.

From Dracula to Po the Pocong, ghosts have stepped out of folklore and into animation. This article explores how iconic spirits are reimagined as cartoon characters across cultures, and why that transformation keeps them alive for new generations.