From Jack Pearson to Mufasa: see who are the best fictional fathers

If there is a stereotype of a perfect father, fiction has managed to show it in many works. From cute animations to melancholic dramas, there are many examples of loving, kind, protective father figures who are always willing to take care of their children.

Taking advantage of the Father’s Day celebrated this Sunday (11), the CNN made a list of some of these brilliant parents who make us laugh and cry in front of the TV and often inspire us to be better in our daily lives. See some names below.

• Julius (Everybody Hates Chris)

Hard work is one of the most striking characteristics of Julius (Terry Crews), Chris’s father in the series. “Everybody Hates Chris” . Working two jobs, as his wife insistently announces, is certainly exhausting, but it demonstrates the character’s determination and commitment to supporting his three children.

Despite the excessive value placed on every cent of his money, the patriarch uses every episode of the plot to pass on his most valuable values ​​and teachings to his children.

• Mufasa (The Lion King)

Although the film is an animation aimed at children, the values ​​that Mufasa transmits to the son, Simba are real, deep and moving. In “The Lion King” the little feline learns from an early age that it is part of a fragile and balanced system, owing respect to everyone, including the animals that serve as prey for them, as this is the only way a kingdom can maintain itself.

The greatest proof of this is when Simba, as an adult, returns to challenge his uncle, Scar, for the throne, in a completely devastated land. After the conflict, which crowns Mufasa’s son as the rightful king, the place once again transforms into a paradise for animals of all species, showing that the lessons taught by the patriarch were absorbed, put into practice and that they work.

• Philip Banks (The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)

With a huge heart, Philip Banks played by James Avery, is the father of Hilary, Carlton, Ashley and Nicky, in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” . As if the challenge of dealing with the quartet wasn’t enough, Uncle Phil, as he is affectionately called by Will Smith, the protagonist of the plot, also has to deal with his wife’s nephew, with whom he has many arguments.

Despite having opposing worldviews, Philip always tries to guide everyone along the path he believes is right, supporting his children and nephew morally and, most importantly, financially. In fact, the patriarch ends up informally “adopting” Will, since his father, Lou, has left and his whereabouts are unknown.

• Chris Gardner (The Pursuit of Happyness)

In “The Pursuit of Happyness” starring Will Smith , Chris Gardner faces extreme difficulties. Completely broke and single, he struggles to raise his son. Faced with adversity, the protagonist ends up sleeping hidden in a public bathroom with his son, after being kicked out of the boarding house for non-payment.

Christopher, despite challenging circumstances, turns the tables and wins a new professional opportunity, in a great story of overcoming and determination, serving as an example for many parents who are going through financial difficulties and have children to raise.

• Joel (The Last of Us)

After losing his daughter at the beginning of the series, Joel (Peter Pascal ), in “The Last of Us” he begins to dedicate his life to protecting and ensuring the safety of Ellie, an orphan who grew up in military quarantine in Boston, Massachusetts, with whom he develops a strong emotional connection.

The character’s paternal side emerges with Ellie, offering emotional support, teaching survival skills and demonstrating empathy, affection and care. These are the characteristics that make Joel a great father, even though he is adapted to the extremely hostile environment that only a post-apocalyptic world can offer.

• Guido Orefice (Life is Beautiful)

Amidst the extreme adversities of the Holocaust, Guido Orefice (Roberto Benigni ), character from the film “Life is Beautiful” is remembered for his unconditional love and extraordinary ability to protect his son.

Sent to a Nazi concentration camp, Guido uses creativity and a good dose of humor to transform their sad reality into a kind of game, making his son, Giosué, believe he is in a competition where the winner will receive a tank.

• Linnaeus Silva

Linnaeus Silva character from the Brazilian series “The Big Family” is considered a good father for his dedication, responsibility and love for his family. Even facing financial difficulties and daily challenges, he always puts the well-being of his family first.

• Jack Pearson

Jack Pearson from the series “This Is Us“ is considered a good father for his unwavering love, dedication, and ability to create deep bonds with his children. He demonstrates a constant commitment to the emotional and physical well-being of his three children, Kevin, Kate, and Randall, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and accept themselves as they are. Jack faces personal and professional challenges, but always puts his family first, being a model of strength, sensitivity, and integrity.

• Jay Pritchett (Modern Family)

Jay Pritchett of “Modern Family“ is considered a good father for his love, wisdom and adaptability. Despite his initially tough and traditional personality, Jay shows his affection and support to his children, Claire and Mitchell, as well as to his grandchildren and his new family with his wife, Gloria.

He learns to accept and celebrate his children’s and grandchildren’s differences, providing them with guidance and a sense of security. Jay balances his rigidity with moments of tenderness and humor, showing that, although imperfect, he continually strives to be a present and loving father.