Here Are 10 On Screen Dads We Love To Celebrate Father’s Day
Father's Day is a beautiful opportunity for us to celebrate the fathers that have graced our screens over the years. Each of these men has a story that is very unique to them, but that's the beauty of fatherhood — it shows up in different ways because everyone's experience needs to reflect the people they are raising. Pop Culture Planet’s Makkedah Ramsey shouts out the on screen dads who have shown us the power of a father's love.
The Flash: Joe West
Even without superpowers, Joe West (Jesse L. Martin) was always fighting right beside Barry Allen and supporting him as he was forced to make world-saving decisions in The Flash. I could never discredit Henry Allen (John Wesley Shipp) as we know he would have been there for Barry if he could. But I have to honor Joe West for taking on a kid that wasn’t his and loving him like he was his own.
Glee: Burt Hummel
Burt Hummel, played by Mike O'Malley, is a true example that toleration is not the same as acceptance on Glee. He and his son Kurt Hummel could not be more opposite and, in the beginning, he ignored it as if their differences were of no consequence. But once he began asking questions and pushing himself out of his comfort zone, he began to see that their differences were real and could also be their greatest strength. During Pride Month, we have to give extra love to this father who loves his son for being exactly who he is.
The Pursuit Of Happiness: Chris Gardner
Chris Gardner (Will Smith) never gave up on The Pursuit of Happiness and, in the end, it was that commitment that allowed him to succeed. “You’re a good papa,” said his son at the homeless shelter where they were staying, and he truly was. This story is not only impactful because it’s true, but because it exemplifies what it truly means to be a good parent: fighting harder because you are no longer fighting for just yourself. Gardner's story has a beautiful ending that reminds us that dedication, perseverance, and love are powerful.
All American: Billy Baker
Billy Baker (Taye Diggs) may only had two children, but he found himself with an entire football team of kids in All American. He was a football coach, but he was so much more to the players on his team, especially Spencer James. He was by no means a perfect father; in fact, he messed up quite a lot. But parenting isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up, and that he did. Billy loved his family and his community. He will always be remembered as a father and mentor.
Riverdale: Fred Andrews
Fred Andrews (Luke Perry) didn’t have a million-dollar house or a corporate job, but he was full of heart and love. He loved his son unconditionally and was always willing to fight the good fight, especially for the young people of Riverdale. Let’s not forget that he actual took a bullet for his son at one point. Luke Perry’s passing ended his time on Riverdale, but he will be remembered as someone pure of heart and an honorable man until the very end.
Boy Meets World: Alan Matthews
Alan Matthews (William Russ) is the classic dad, a perfect example of what a father should be, in Boy Meets World. It's not because he gets everything right — sometimes he finds himself apologizing to his boys —but because he's always there, providing, giving advice, and showing his kid’s true love. He knows he kids well and though he sometimes has to be hard on them it’s because he loves them that he wants them to be able to stand on their own two feet. But don’t be fooled he will always show up if you need him to.
Station 19: Pruitt Herrera
Pruitt Herrera (Miguel Sandoval) is the definition of "I’ll do anything for you.” Herrera was hard on his daughter Andy. Not only was she his only child, but also his baby girl. He pushed her and always expected greatness from her. It is because of his strength that Andy became the woman and leader she is today. He sacrificed so much in his life to give her everything and, in the end, he went out just as he would have liked to — saving his daughter and his team. He is a legend. He is Station 19.
Ultraman Rising: Kenji Sato
An unconventional story of fatherhood, Ultraman Rising finds the closed off Kenji Sato (Christopher Sean) raising a baby kaiju while reconnecting with his own estranged father. Both Ken and his father learn tough lessons and open their hearts while discovering the true meaning of family thanks to Emi. It doesn’t hurt that she is the most adorable kaiju ever!
Boyz n the Hood: Furious
Boyz n the Hood’s Furious (Laurence Fishburne) was not willing to let his son become another stereotype. Tre was sent by his single mother to live with his father, who had a take-no-prisoners attitude. Not only was Furious fearless in his own life, but he also knew exactly how he wanted to prepare his son for the world. He made sure Tre didn’t repeat his mistakes or the mistakes of other Black men in their neighborhood. This is a character whose masculinity did not hinder him, but motivated him as he pushed for positivity and growth. I love that he is an example of the power of fatherhood, especially in the Black community.
Avatar: The Last Airbender: Uncle Iroh
Fatherhood isn’t simply about being someone’s father by birth, it’s about being there and Uncle Iroh (Paul Sun-Hyung Lee) shows us that clear as day in Avatar: The Last Airbender. He and Zuko have a beautiful, emotional relationship. Zuko not only respects his uncle, but also loves him deeply. Iroh shows Zuko love and compassion and, though he may not always agree with his quest, he always stands beside him.
