Tom & Jerry is a classic animated television series created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera. It features a comedic rivalry between a house cat named Tom and a clever mouse named Jerry. The show is known for its slapstick humor, with Tom constantly trying to catch Jerry, who always manages to outsmart him. The series first premiered in 1940 and has since become a beloved part of popular culture. It has won several Academy Awards for Animated Short Film and has inspired numerous spin-offs, movies, and merchandise. The simple yet engaging premise appeals to audiences of all ages.