When I first embraced fatherhood, I was taken aback by the scarcity of resources available for dads. Eager to be an involved parent, I longed for a support system similar to what my partner found easily through her pregnancy. I sought out relatable father figures who could break the outdated stereotypes that seem to separate dads from moms. This quest inspired me to launch a podcast focusing on authentic discussions about contemporary parenting from a father’s perspective. The aim was to showcase how similar modern dads and moms can be, while introducing father figures I’d genuinely want to befriend—hence the title of my podcast: Dad I’d Like to Friend (aka The DILF Podcast).
To create this list, I considered three main qualities that embody great parenting—regardless of gender:
- D = Depth of character
- A = Accessibility
- D = Delightfully fun to be around (at least some of the time)
With Father’s Day approaching, it felt fitting to celebrate some of the iconic dads who have graced our television screens but often go unrecognized for their parenting skills. Here are the top 10 most memorable DILFS that any parent would want to befriend.
10) Charlie Rowan (Modern Family)
Awkward at times, Charlie is the epitome of sincerity. He can’t fake anything, which is a reassuring trait in a parent. His genuine love and acceptance for every family member shine through.
9) Dr. Mike Harrison (Family Matters)
Dr. Mike is the definition of approachability. His door is always open (unless he’s with a patient), and he’s known for his level-headedness, depth, and non-judgmental attitude.
8) Sam Jenkins (Grace & Frankie)
Despite his past mistakes, Sam takes responsibility for his actions and remains a supportive figure for his ex-wife. His empathy and commitment to his family make him someone anyone would appreciate as a friend or parent.
7) Coach David Mitchell (Friday Night Lights)
Reliable and committed, Coach David serves as a moral compass and loving partner. He’s always willing to see another perspective and is a father figure to many, including the entire football team.
6) Kevin Parker (This Is Us)
Kevin has learned from two incredible father figures. He’s not only accessible but also knows how to have fun while being vulnerable with his kids and demonstrating resilience in tough situations.
5) Guardian Griffin (The Smurfs)
Though he might have a cult-like following, Guardian Griffin showcases the essence of a caring single dad. He fosters a nurturing environment for his smurfs, allowing everyone to express their individuality without fear of judgment.
4) Uncle Ray (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
While sometimes strict, Uncle Ray’s intentions are always good. He balances a successful career with the needs of his family and knows how to enjoy life, even if it means showing off his dance moves.
3) Tony Gallagher (Who’s The Boss)
Tony exemplifies sacrifice; he’s a former Major League Baseball player who becomes a live-in housekeeper to ensure a better life for his daughter. Tough yet tender-hearted, he’s the kind of dad everyone admires.
2) Leo Martin (Ted Lasso)
Leo is a fun-loving, approachable dad who often prioritizes others’ needs above his own. His ability to inspire and uplift those around him makes him a remarkable role model.
1) President Jack Harmon (The West Wing)
Jack is a brilliant, witty, and charming figure who keeps his family at the forefront of his life, despite the demands of his challenging job. He embodies both leadership and humanity, making him a dad everyone would aspire to befriend.
This list can help us move past the stereotypes surrounding fatherhood and highlight the admirable qualities that make these TV dads worthy role models. As we celebrate Father’s Day, let’s honor the fantastic dads in our lives!
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In summary, these iconic TV fathers exemplify qualities worth celebrating and emulating. They break down barriers and redefine what it means to be a dad in today’s world. Their depth, accessibility, and fun nature make them relatable figures not just on screen, but in our lives too.