Ghost Cartoon 2026: Three Animated Projects to Watch

Table of Content

1. Introduction

2. Kisah Bawah Tanah

3. Ghost in the Shell

4. Ghostbusters Animated Movie

5. What Defines Ghost Animation in 2026

6. Conclusion

7. Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)

Introduction

The animation industry is entering 2026 with renewed interest in supernatural storytelling. In particular, the rise of ghost-themed animation reflects a broader shift toward character-driven narratives, culturally grounded stories, and genre flexibility across global markets.

Search interest around ghost cartoon 2026 highlights this momentum. From original series inspired by regional folklore to long-established global franchises, animated ghost stories are being developed with clearer intent and wider audience segmentation.

Below are three of the most anticipated ghost-focused animated projects associated with 2026, each representing a different creative and production approach.

1. Kisah Bawah Tanah

From left to right: Sam, Ina, Vincent, and Tok Mart, characters from Kisah Bawah Tanah, an animated series drawing on Southeast Asian folklore and supernatural storytelling.

• Format: Animated television series

• Studio / Production: Animasia Studio (Malaysia)

• Estimated Release: Early 2026

• Broadcast / Platforms: Astro (Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei) and Boom (Thailand)

Synopsis

Kisah Bawah Tanah follows best friends Sam and Zack as they navigate a hidden world teeming with creatures that have long haunted the imaginations of people across Southeast Asia. As they encounter spirits, monsters, and supernatural beings rooted in regional folklore, the duo must rely on their friendship, curiosity, and adaptability to survive and understand this unseen realm.

The series introduces ghost cartoon characters inspired by Southeast Asian myths and legends, reimagined through a contemporary animated lens that blends adventure, humor, and supernatural mystery.

Industry Context

From a production and development perspective, Kisah Bawah Tanah reflects a growing emphasis on original intellectual property rooted in local culture, with the ability to travel internationally.

Key characteristics include:

• Protagonist-led storytelling grounded in friendship and exploration

• Folklore-based supernatural creatures adapted for modern audiences

• A tone that balances accessibility with cultural specificity

  
  

As an early ghost cartoon 2026 release, the series contributes to the expanding presence of Southeast Asian animation on the regional and global stage.

2. Ghost in the Shell

Key visual from the 2026 Ghost in the Shell anime series by Science SARU, highlighting the franchise’s signature blend of cyberpunk action and philosophical science fiction.

• Format: Anime television series

• Studio: Science SARU (with franchise production partners)

• Estimated Release: Mid to late 2026

• Broadcast / Platforms: TBA

Synopsis

The upcoming Ghost in the Shell anime series continues the franchise’s exploration of identity, consciousness, and the concept of the “ghost” as human self-awareness in a technologically augmented society.

Set in a future where cybernetic bodies and artificial intelligence are commonplace, the story follows Public Security Section 9, a specialized task force dealing with cybercrime and digital threats. Central to the narrative is Major Motoko Kusanagi, whose investigations raise fundamental questions about autonomy, memory, and what it means to be human when the boundaries between body and machine are increasingly blurred.

Industry Significance

Within the landscape of ghost cartoon 2026 projects, Ghost in the Shell occupies a distinct position.

From an animation industry standpoint:

• It treats animation as a medium for philosophical and political inquiry

• The franchise continues to influence global science fiction storytelling

• It remains a consistent benchmark for what the best animated series can achieve in terms of thematic depth

  
  

Its relevance lies not in nostalgia, but in its continued engagement with contemporary technological concerns.

3. Ghostbusters Animated Movie

The Ghostbusters franchise continues its animated legacy, using expressive ghost designs and humor to introduce supernatural adventures to a new generation.

• Format: Feature-length animated film

• Studio / Partners: Sony Pictures Animation (reported), in collaboration with franchise rights holders

• Estimated Release: Late 2026 to 2027 window (project in development)

• Broadcast / Platforms: TBA

Synopsis

An untitled Ghostbusters animated movie is currently in development, expanding the franchise into a new animated format. While detailed plot information has not yet been publicly released, the project is expected to retain the core elements of the brand: a team-based approach to supernatural problems, comedic tone, and imaginative ghost designs.

The animated format allows for greater visual flexibility, enabling expressive ghost cartoon characters and large-scale supernatural set pieces while remaining accessible to family audiences.

Market Positioning

From a commercial and strategic perspective, this project reflects how legacy franchises are adapting to evolving audience habits.

Notable aspects include:

• Leveraging established brand recognition through animation

• Targeting both younger viewers and long-time fans

• Expanding franchise presence across theatrical and streaming platforms

While not yet formally dated within 2026, its development places it firmly within discussions of upcoming ghost-focused animation.

What Defines Ghost Animation in 2026

Across these projects, several industry trends are apparent:

• Ghost themes are increasingly used as narrative frameworks rather than genre labels

• Animation styles are tailored to audience intent, not age alone

• Studios are balancing original IP development with franchise expansion

In this context, the best animated series of 2026 will be distinguished less by scale and more by narrative clarity, cultural relevance, and production intent.

Conclusion

The growing focus on ghost cartoon 2026 releases reflects a broader evolution within animation. Supernatural storytelling is being applied across genres, cultures, and audience segments, demonstrating the medium’s expanding narrative range.

• Kisah Bawah Tanah introduces folklore-driven original storytelling from Southeast Asia

• Ghost in the Shell continues to define philosophical science fiction in animation

• Ghostbusters illustrates how established franchises are evolving through animated formats

Together, these projects signal a year in which animated ghost stories are not defined by fear alone, but by the ideas, cultures, and questions they represent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the most anticipated ghost cartoon in 2026?

There is no single title dominating the category, but several projects are generating strong interest. Kisah Bawah Tanahis notable as an original animated series inspired by Southeast Asian folklore, while the new Ghost in the Shell anime series and the upcoming Ghostbusters animated movie represent high-profile franchise entries. Together, they define the current ghost cartoon 2026 landscape.

2. When will Kisah Bawah Tanah be released?

Kisah Bawah Tanah is scheduled for release in early 2026. The series will air on Astro across Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, and on Boom in Thailand.

3. Is the new Ghost in the Shell anime really coming in 2026?

Yes. A new Ghost in the Shell anime series has been officially announced and is currently in production, with an expected release window in mid to late 2026. The project is being developed by Science SARU alongside established franchise production partners.

4. Is the Ghostbusters animated movie confirmed for 2026?

The Ghostbusters animated movie is in development, but it does not yet have a confirmed release date. Industry reporting suggests a likely release window in late 2026 or 2027, though this may change as production progresses.

5. Why are ghost cartoons becoming popular again?

Ghost cartoons are resurging because animation audiences are increasingly drawn to stories that explore mystery, identity, culture, and unresolved themes. In 2026, many of the best animated series use ghost characters not just for scares or comedy, but as narrative tools to explore deeper ideas across different age groups and markets.