Episode 45: Bob's Burgers is Autistic

A: It is pun central, puntastic. M: And again, that is the humor of our people. A: We do. I love it. I love it. I can't get enough.

Neurodiversity on the Menu: Exploring Autistic Representation in "Bob's Burgers"

• Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP analyze the TV show "Bob's Burgers" and how its characters embody aspects of Autistic culture and experiences.

• They examine the various Autistic traits exhibited by the main characters, such as:

  • Tina's Autistic accent, people-pleasing tendencies, and passionate interest in horses

  • Gene's deep need for musical expression, echolalia, and sensory-seeking behaviors

  • Louise's Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA), monotropic focus, and preference for wearing the same clothes

• The hosts discuss how the show provides nuanced, humanized portrayals of Autistic characters, in contrast to stereotypical representations found in other media.

• They highlight relatable Autistic experiences depicted in the show, such as special interests, social differences, meltdowns, and how the Belcher family navigates life together.

• The hosts believe the creator of "Bob's Burgers" intentionally includes Autistic characters based on their previous work, and that the show normalizes Autistic traits rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

• Overall, the analysis demonstrates how "Bob's Burgers" offers valuable representation and relatability for the Autistic community, serving as a sitcom about an Autistic family that resonates with many neurodivergent viewers.

*For the superfans out there: Yes, Matt gets a little caught up in the excitement of info dumping and calls Louise, ‘Tina’—it happens! TACP is dedicated to AUTHENTIC Autistic representation and this is an excellent example of how Autistics can forget things that allistics think we ‘should’ remember, especially when routines are off and social obligations are high—such as during the holiday season, when this episode was recorded. Autistics forgetting things isn’t a sign that we ‘don’t care’—Matt clearly cares a great deal about the show and its characters. It’s just a sign that we’re dealing with a lot at the moment and could use a little extra understanding and acceptance. #AutisticCultureCatch

Angela shares about a viral discussion that got started because of an online review. In the comments, tell us which Autistic strengths make us naturally exceptional reviewers and what YOU would be especially good at reviewing.

• Article: Autistic Representation in Bob’s Burgers (2011): Give ‘em something shiitake about

• Bob’s Burger Burger Book

• Article: Roland the Farter

• Twitter/X link: Keith Lee

• Episode 18 - Ponies are Autistic

• Episode 19: Eminem is Autistic

• Episode 29: Questlove is Autistic

• Episode 32: Animation is Autistic

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