The article discusses the evolution of fatherhood in the 21st century, highlighting a shift in how men perceive their roles as dads compared to the previous century. Despite the stereotype that comedians like Jerry Seinfeld lost relevance, he successfully connects parenting experiences humorously. Recent statistics reveal that a significant majority of fathers regard parenthood as a crucial aspect of their identity. The piece also touches upon cinematic representations of fathers, showcasing how characters like Chas Tenenbaum reflect and tackle modern parenting challenges, including the struggles of helicopter parenting.
If you were a dad in the 20th century, the answer would be very different than it is today. According to a Pew Research Center survey published in 2023, 85 percent of fathers with kids under 18 claim that being a parent is either the most or one of the most 'important aspects of who they are as a person.' This is huge.
In his 2020 special 23 Hours to Kill, Seinfeld brilliantly compares parenting to keeping a baby alligator in your house. 'You put it in your tub...and you feel the little...bitey...teeth. And then time passes, and you think - You know, I think we have to get this thing the hell out of here!'
Though the late Gene Hackman's portrayal of patriarch Royal Tennenbaum gets a lot of the attention in The Royal Tenenbaums, this modern classic has another great dad role model. Yes, Ben Stiller... gave us a tender and hilarious portrayal of fatherhood.
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