If you’re familiar with Joe Cappa’s animated work, you already know he has a unique comedic style. His new Adult Swim series, Haha, You Clowns, premiering Sunday nights in 2025, is no different. But where does Cappa get his distinctive sense of humor? Those who grew up watching ‘90s television might recognize some of the influences he recently discussed with TopMob.
Before the premiere of *Haha, You Clowns* – which will also be streaming on HBO Max starting Monday – I had a conversation with creator Joe Cappa. When I asked him about the show’s unique mix of humor and heart, he mentioned a classic Nickelodeon show from the 1990s that many older Millennials will remember.
I really love shows like ‘Pete & Pete,’ and that influence definitely came through in my writing. I focused on small, everyday moments and how they can feel huge when you’re a kid, because everything seems so much bigger and more important at that age. That’s what made ‘Pete & Pete’ so special.
After watching the first six episodes of *Haha, You Clowns* and the short films it’s based on, I understood why Cappa enjoys *The Adventures of Pete & Pete*. Both shows beautifully capture the special bond between brothers, the magic of being a kid, and the funny, strange parts of everyday life.
Similar to the sibling dynamics in shows like *Pete & Pete* and *Haha, You Clowns*, Joe Cappa has a close relationship with his brother, Dave, who also co-writes the show with him. When discussing their connection, shared past, and comedic style, Joe revealed a major influence: a popular children’s movie from the 1990s often linked to the Mormon faith.
As a lifelong movie fan, I’ve always had a soft spot for those genuinely heartwarming family films. Growing up, my brother and I loved watching movies like *The ButterCream Gang* – I think it was made by the Mormon Church, actually. We weren’t raised in that faith, but my mom found it had good messages, and we just really enjoyed how fun and uplifting it was to watch again and again. *Ha Ha You Clowns* feels like a natural extension of that same kind of joyful, wholesome experience.
I haven’t seen the movie, but the story – about a group of friends helping one of their own after a tough experience in the city – sounds exactly like something my brothers and I would have loved when we were younger.
When I wondered why each episode of *Haha, You Clowns* ended with a touching piano piece and heartfelt moments from Dad, Tristan, Preston, and Duncan, Cappa responded with the following explanation:
My brother and I have a lot of fun writing these episodes – we’re always laughing! They naturally come together in a satisfying and funny way, and we’ve noticed they tend to end similarly each time. It’s very reminiscent of the endings in 7th Heaven. Ultimately, because of the kind of people these characters are, a heartwarming conclusion just feels right.
I’m not suggesting a full rewatch of *7th Heaven* – though all the episodes are available on Paramount+. But it would be interesting to see how many shows today borrow ideas from that ‘90s family drama.
Want to know what inspired *Haha, You Clowns*? Watch new episodes every Sunday at 11:45 p.m. Eastern Time, or stream them the next day on HBO Max.
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2025-10-19 22:38