This article addresses sexual abuse allegations that may be triggering.

Two years after co-creator Justin Roiland's firing, Roiland was still credited as an executive producer for season 7, he left the show after season 6, as Adult Swim elected to cut ties with him in 2023. The firing came after nearly a dozen people came forward with sexual abuse allegations aimed at the creator, shortly after he was charged with domestic battery and false imprisonment. Those charges have since been dropped, but Adult Swim remains content to move on without his involvement in its most popular show.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, that decision has not disillusioned the critics. Season 7, the first season without Roiland, secured a record-low 77% Tomatometer score. Ahead of its Sunday, May 25 release date, however, season 8 has earned a perfect 100% Tomatometer score at the time of writing. While the score can change as more reviews come in, it is currently a record-breaking score and represents a return to form for the series.

What Rick & Morty's RT Success Means

The Show Can Thrive Without Roiland

After Roiland's abrupt exit, the future of Rick and Morty appeared relatively uncertain, given how important Roiland's role in the show was. He originally appeared indispensable, serving as a co-creator, showrunner, writer, voice actor (playing Rick, Morty, and Mr. Poopybutthole, primarily), executive producer, and director. Co-creator Dan Harmon remains involved in the show, but losing Roiland was still a significant blow, as viewers had to adapt to new voice actors for Rick and Morty. Fortunately for Harmon and the viewers, this successful Rotten Tomatoes score is a series high, as the chart below proves:

Many reviewers argue that this season is a return to the show's typical storylines, plot progression, and character dynamics. While there are areas where the show continues to cling to nostalgic elements, it pushes forward and features reinvented narratives, alongside significant character development for its stars. Another record-low series could have easily discouraged viewers from returning, but this is a sign that the show should continue to interest audiences. Though the Popcornmeter is still a crucial metric that will influence its success, this is early proof of a return to form for Rick and Morty season 8.

Our Take On Rick & Morty's RT Success

This Is An Exciting Sign

While the show easily could have stumbled, season 8 is proof that this series remains Adult Swim's best. ScreenRant's Felipe Rangel argues that "the show feels as immersive and grand as it should be" and is "an all-around gem," which is a welcome change of pace after last season's downturn. Roiland might have been crucial to its early success, but Harmon and the rest of the team are certainly capable of thriving without him. Rick and Morty season 8 is poised to be the best in its entire run, and it is proof that Adult Swim made the right decision.

Rick and Morty season 8 premieres Sunday, May 25 on Adult Swim.

Source: Rotten Tomatoes