Celebrating Diverse Portrayals of Fatherhood on TV Screens
The image of fatherhood has evolved over the years, and we wholeheartedly welcome this change. It is crucial to have diverse representations of fatherhood, no matter how complex they may be. When it comes to storytelling, people respond to characters that make them feel like they can connect with the story and see themselves in it. As we honor fathers in June, let's celebrate some recent portrayals of fatherhood on our TV screens, flaws and all!
1. Phillip Banks played by Adrian Holmes - Bel Air
In the reimagining of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," we see "Uncle Phil" as a father figure deeply committed to his family. He is not perfect, but his pursuit of excellence shapes the way he nurtures and provides for his loved ones.
2. Abraham Quintanilla played by Ricardo Chavira - Selena: The Series
Mr. Quintanilla is portrayed as a fierce protector of his family, especially his daughter Selena. While he may be criticized for being controlling, his cultural influences shape his parenting decisions and contribute to his dedication to his family.
3. Ghost/James St. Patrick played by Omari Hardwick - Power
James St. Patrick is a father who believes that providing a better way of living is the gateway to a better life for his children. Despite his involvement in a criminal life, St. Patrick strives to be engaged in his children's lives.
4. Billy Baker played by Taye Diggs - All American
Billy Baker played by Taye Diggs - All American
Billy Baker's portrayal of fatherhood shows a shift from being solely career-driven and viewing fatherhood as a provider's role to becoming an engaged, hands-on parent. During his twins' high school and college years, he reveals character flaws but also takes the opportunity to right some wrongs and heal his own childhood wounds.
5. Ralph Angel Bordelon played by Kofi Siriboe - Queen Sugar
Ralph Angel, despite his checkered past, embraces fatherhood as his most important role. Viewers witness the growth of a young father navigating manhood in the absence of his parents but with the support of his family.
6. Monty Finne played by Reggie Austin - On My Block
Monty Finne's role as a single parent in the military explores the struggles of raising a daughter alone with minimal involvement. As a provider, Mr. Finney appears to have unresolved grief/trauma from the breakup with his daughter's mother, leading to his single parenthood. This portrayal sheds light on the unique perspective of being a single parent in the military, a story not often explored.
7. Lance Sullivan played by Morris Chestnut - The Best Man Final Chapters
In the Final Chapters of the series, Lance Sullivan's role as a father begins with viewers seeing the layers of a grieving father of four. We witness the challenges of single parenthood, the evolution of his children during their teenage years, which challenge Sullivan's moral and religious beliefs, all while he is re-establishing his identity in the world.
As mentioned earlier, great storytelling allows people to see themselves in the characters. While fairytales have their allure, relatable stories provide a sense of belonging in today's world. Effective character development includes wins, losses, and flaws. The more committed we are to creating and developing characters with multiple layers, the more people can find hopeful lessons, evolve, and celebrate roles such as fatherhood in their everyday lives.
Join us in celebrating #FathersDay, #Fathers, #Blackandbrownfathers, #Fathersonscreen, #Diversecharacters, #characterdevelopment, #storytelling, #mentalhealthons