Reddit users noticed something odd on HBO Max earlier this week. Aqua Teen Hunger Force's Shake Like Me and The Boondock's The Story of Jimmy Rebel were missing. When sought for comment, a representative for Adutl Swim told The Daily Beast, "When Adult Swim transitions series to a new platform we determine what episodes are selected through creative and cultural filters and our standards and practices policies. Oftentimes these decisions are made in collaboration with the show’s creator." The representative went on to add that both episode have been, "permanently retired due to cultural sensitivities."
With social unrest widespread across the United States, several networks have removed controversial episodes from shows like 30 Rock, Community, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Little Britain due to racially sensitive undertones. However, fans of The Boondocks and Aqua Teen Hunger Fore are crying foul as it appears shows like Family Guy and American Dad- known for their cultural insensitivity and dark humor have been untouched.
“Shake Like Me” is a season 6 episode of Aqua Teen Hunger Force which sees Shake bitten by a black man and begin to exhibit black stereotypes in a play on werewolf/Spider-Man (bitten by a radioactive spider) mythology. The "Story of Jimmy Rebel" season 3 episode of The Boondocks sees Uncle Ruckus cross paths with an incredibly racists country singer with a penchant for offensive album titles.
African-American fans are especially concerned/disappointed in the decision as HBO Max previously announced that The Boondocoks would be returning in late-2020 for two brand new seasons. The concern is centered around the fear that the network may be delivering a watered-down version of the beloved show after a 6-year hiatus. Boondocks creator Aaron McGruder declined to comment, however, it should be noted that McGruder had limited involvement with the show in season 3 and 4.