Common Side Effects

Common Side Effects is an American adult animated television series created by Joseph Bennett and Steve Hely for Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim block with availability on Max. In the critically-acclaimed series, two high school friends, Marshall and Frances, reconnect after Marshall discovers the Blue Angel Mushroom, a mushroom with healing effects that appears to cure all illnesses. In the process, they also uncover a conspiracy involving Reutical Pharmaceuticals, Inc., one of the largest pharmaceutical companies, and the government, to suppress all knowledge of said mushroom.

Shows like Common Side Effects are stunning not only because of the visuals and heartfelt characters, but for the rarity in which it shows that the side-effects of healthcare inadequacies and rampant corporatism may be common, they aren’t absolute. Even if it’s a special mushroom that can heal all, the most important thing is just trying to do right and help those in pain. On March 28, 2025, it was announced the series was renewed for a second season.