Best Bobs in the Bob-niverse
By Leanna Boles
As of 2023, 334.9 million people live in the United States (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). 4,737,489 of these people (approximately 1.4 percent of the U.S. population) were given the name Robert. Although this is a perfect and respectable title to go by, most Roberts feel the need to shorten this two-syllable name into one that really rolls off the tongue. The next ten people who will appear on this screen of yours could choose Rob, Bobby, Robby, Bert, or any other derivative of the name Robert. But no, for they have chosen a three-letter word that equates to a short haircut or a sudden movement up or down. The following ten people, well, they go by Bob.
- Bob Belcher Jr.
Bob Belcher Jr. in Seymour’s Bay, New Jersey. Belcher is posing with one of his famous hamburgers. Photo taken by Amino Apps.
Starting this list is a 46-year-old family man named Bob Belcher Jr. Belcher is a third-generation restaurateur and the protagonist of the well-known Fox animated series Bob’s Burgers. With the help of his wife, Linda Belcher, and their three children, Tina, Gene, and Louise, Belcher runs the restaurant named after the title of the TV show. Belcher is a serious family man who would do anything for his wife and kids. He’s an active member in others’ lives and unconditionally supports their passions while still understanding their boundaries. At times, Belcher can be selfish, but he always finds a way to make up for his mistakes. Although Belcher sometimes worries and messes up, he always has his best interests at heart. Belcher is on this list because of his endearing personality and kind-hearted nature. Belcher is one Bob-nificent man.
2. Bob Duncan
Bob Duncan outside his house in Denver, Colorado. Duncan is posing in his backyard. Photo by Reddit.
Bob William Duncan, the fun-loving father in Disney Channel’s Good Luck Charlie, is a local exterminator married to Amy Duncan and has five children: PJ, Teddy, Gabe, Charlie, and Toby. Duncan owns his own pest control company, Bob’s Bugs Be Gone, and, like Belcher, would do anything for his family. Duncan is an easygoing and intuitive father with a passion for music, insects, and more. He is a role model for his children and has excellent relationships with his family and friends. Duncan is incorporated into this list for his willingness to sacrifice his own wants for his family and his funny personality. Duncan is Bob-sational.
3. Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan in 1965. Dylan is seen playing his guitar in a recording studio. Photo by Britannica.
With extremely well-known songs such as “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” and “Forever Young,” Dylan has become one of the most iconic musicians of all time. Dylan has won many awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Pulitzer Prize Special Citations and Awards, a Nobel Prize in Literature, and more. Although his first song dates back to 1958, his legacy remains strong today as a new movie based on his life was recently released in December 2024. Titled “A Complete Unknown,” this new movie highlights the challenges and successes of Dylan’s life. Dylan’s huge legacy and renowned career is what made him appear on this list, for his job is spec-Bob-ular.
4. Bob Fosse
Bob Fosse in a dance studio. Fosse rehearsed for one of his dance numbers. Photo by Harper’s BAZAAR with credit to Getty Images.
Getting ourselves into a jazzier mood, we must talk about one of the most iconic choreographers in dance history: Bob Fosse. Fosse is best known for his flouncy jazz hands and intricate jazzy style. He is also the choreographer behind the hit musicals Chicago, Cabaret, and Pippin. Although Fosse had an unfortunate death from a heart attack in 1987, Fosse continues to inspire dancers and choreographers worldwide. Fosse’s influence and unique style allowed him to be included in this list. Some may say that his style is Bob-stonishing.
5. Bob Marley
Bob Marley in Ireland in July 1980. Marley was pictured performing in one of his concerts. Photo by Wikipedia.
Most known for creating songs like “Three Little Birds” and “Could You Be Loved,” Marley is one of the most recognizable Jamaican singer-songwriters. Marley’s music was notorious for its infectious rhythms and standing up for unity, resistance, and social change. Although Marley died too soon at 36 years old due to melanoma, he left behind a legacy rooted in ideas of freedom, peace, love, and cultural unity. His music taught and will continue to teach others the importance of equality and passion. These crucial lessons he brought to the world landed him his spot on this list. Marley truly is Bob-gendary.
6. Bob Ross
Bob Ross’ publicity photo with one of his paintings. Ross was pictured painting with his easel. Photo by Wikipedia.
Most recognizable for his beautiful paintings of nature and upbeat personality, Ross has been inspiring young artists everywhere. Ross became popular through his PBS show, The Joy of Painting, which ran for 11 years. Not only was he gifted in creating angelic landscapes, but Ross was also known for encouraging his viewers with his optimistic attitude and uplifting advice. With famous quotes like “There are no mistakes, just happy accidents” and “We don’t laugh because we feel good, we feel good because we laugh,” Ross portrayed kindness and optimism throughout his life. His bright personality and kind-hearted nature earned him his spot on this list. He is Bob-mazing.
7. Bob Saget
Bob Saget in 2015. Saget was pictured while posing in front of drawings. Photo by Wikipedia.
Best known for his work on the massively popular TV show Full House, Saget was a successful actor, comedian, director, and television host. Through his character of Danny Tanner, Saget became a father figure to many fans of the show. Making young viewers laugh, smile, and cry all in a short period, fans worldwide fell in love with Saget and his castmates’ work in this show. Unlike other candidates on this list, Saget’s appearance was chosen for his career and work on popular television, not for his personal beliefs and treatment of his costars, which have been viewed as controversial. Although he portrayed an emotionally relatable character on the screen, his crimes can not be overlooked, and his Bob-someness was severely lowered.
8. SpongeBob SquarePants
SpongeBob SquarePants in Bikini Bottom. SquarePants was standing outside of his house. Photo by Animation Wiki – Fandom.
Although SpongeBob’s name differs from the rest, SpongeBob SquarePants’ playful and hyperactive personality makes him a must-have for this list. SquarePants is the main protagonist in the popular television series named after him. He is a childish and naive sea sponge who spends his days hanging out with his friends, going on adventures, and working at the Krusty Krab as a fry cook. His goofy antics and carefree lifestyle have made fans young and old laugh since 1999. For that reason, SpongeBob earned his spot on this list, for if you ask me, SpongeBob is totally Bob-tastic.
9. Bob The Builder
Bob The Builder in Bobsville. The Builder was seen in his construction site with a paint brush. Photo by Screen Rant.
First airing in the same year as SquarePants (1999), Bob The Builder and his can-do attitude have inspired young children for many years. Teaching an audience of toddlers the essential learning skills involving problem-solving, cooperation, and much more. These skills can stick with The Builder’s fans and have a massive impact on them throughout their lives. His influence and well-being have earned him a position on the Bob scale.
10. Bob The Drag Queen
Bob the Drag Queen’s publicity picture. They were pictured posing. Photo by EARWOLF.
Closing out this list is an American drag queen, comedian, actor, activist, musician, and reality television personality: Bob the Drag Queen. This particular Bob is best known for winning RuPaul’s Drag Race and starring in the Emmy-nominated TV show, We’re Here. Along with acting in well-known TV shows, Bob the Drag Queen spends time advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and strongly supporting the Black Lives Matter Movement. Their acts of activism and not being afraid to share their opinions have earned them their place on the Top Ten Bob List.
