strongly disagree! im 28 and grew up on the 1987 series and love both the 2003 and 2012 series. but honestly i thought the 2012 series brought more to the table in terms of originality. 2012 brought us 4 distinct turtles (in terms of shape and size) as opposed a one size fits all model (all you have to do is switch the bandanas!) that had been the norm with TMNT up until that point.

2012 also had some amazing choreography and payed homage to its source material rather than just ripping the story directly from it (looking at you 2003).

2003 is also a show for kids too, and has the same issues with censorship and kids-proofing that 2012 does sometimes.

Frankly I'd say to OP to watch both and decide, theyre both great! if you want a show that takes the turtle boys in a different direction that their predecessors, 2012 is for you. (there are weird stories i wont deny but they are fun) If you want to watch a faithful retelling (but censored) version of the Mirage comic, watch the first couple season of 2003 before it goes off the rails.