Godzilla Day Special: 6 TV Shows That Prove Why He’s the King of Monsters

Pretty much everyone in this massive world of ours knows who Godzilla is. He’s the King of Monsters, the protector of Earth, and the frequent destroyer of Tokyo. Over the last 70 years, the kingly kaiju acquired unparalleled fame and an immense following. He even has a holiday dedicated to him that fans have christened Godzilla Day.

Established on the day of his first movie, Godzilla Day occurs every November 3rd. Fans typically celebrate by watching his films, reliving his epic adventures and fights. But did you know he also appeared in shows on the small screen? Here are six series worth watching when Godzilla Day returns next year.

6. “Zone Fighter”

“Zone Fighter” was Toho’s equivalent to other tokusatsu shows like “Kamen Rider” and “Ultraman.” It starred a superhero from another planet who fought kaiju as a giant. While not a star, Godzilla appeared numerous times as Zone Fighter’s ally. Other famous Toho creatures, like Gigan and King Ghidorah, also guest-starred.

5. Hanna-Barbera’s “Godzilla”

Following “Terror of MechaGodzilla,” Toho ceased production of new Godzilla films. But they began collaborating with Hanna-Barbera to produce a cartoon show. It featured a group of scientists traveling across the world, often encountering bizarre monsters. And Godzilla, now tamed by said scientists, would show up and save the day. The series also showcased Godzooky, Godzilla’s winged “nephew,” who served as the comic relief.

4. “Godzilla: The Series”

“Godzilla: The Series” served as the animated television sequel to Roland Emmerich’s controversial film, “Godzilla.” Like the Hanna-Barbera cartoon, scientists traveled the world, encountering monsters that Godzilla ultimately fought. The protagonist, Godzilla, was actually the surviving offspring from the previous movie. Fans considered it a massive improvement over the 1998 flick, despite only lasting two seasons.

3. “Godzilla Singular Point”

Set in the year 2030, the “Godzilla Singular Point” anime follows two groups of heroes. They must work to prevent a planet-destroying catastrophe centered around Godzilla himself. The show features a blend of 2D and 3D animation by studios Bones and Orange. Many iconic Toho kaiju, primarily those from the Showa era, are showcased with intriguing redesigns. And it ended on a mind-blowing cliffhanger, prompting the suspicion of an eventual second season.

2. “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters”

“Monarch: Legacy of Monsters” explores the history of the Monsterverse’s Monarch organization. This live-action Apple TV+ show focuses mainly on its human characters. But it also features creatures such as the Ion Dragon and, of course, Godzilla. The series received much praise, with a second season greenlit for production.

1. “Chibi Godzilla Raids Again”

An obscure piece of Godzilla media, “Chibi Godzilla Raids Again,” possesses a unique premise. This online anime follows the daily adventures of Godzilla and the Monster Island inhabitants. The main difference is that the characters, like the title reveals, are pint-sized and cutesy. It’s a surreal yet lighthearted children’s show with humor that appeals to a broader audience. All of its episodes, as well as brand-new ones, can be found over on YouTube.

Thoughts on This Godzilla Day List

This selection of shows worth watching on Godzilla Day is undoubtedly intriguing. I’m actually familiar with these entries except for “Chibi Godzilla Raid Again.” Honestly, I’ve only seen clips of “Zone Fighter,” though only of scenes featuring Godzilla. And I’ve been meaning to watch “Singular Point” and “Monarch.”

I remember watching “Godzilla: The Series” on Saturday mornings as a kid. And I recall observing the Hanna-Barbera cartoon, but only on certain days. Still, each of these shows sounds like ideal Godzilla Day viewing material. Maybe I can experience them and join in on the celebration next year.