SpongeBob SquarePants Is “Autistic”, Says Tom Kenny: “That’s His Superpower”

At the 2024 Motor City Comic Con in Detroit, Tom Kenny, the renowned voice actor of SpongeBob SquarePants shared insights about his iconic character, revealing that SpongeBob is autistic. During a Q&A session, which was captured in a video posted to ToonHive’s X account, Kenny recounted the moment he first publicly acknowledged SpongeBob’s neurodivergence. “SpongeBob’s kind of on the spectrum too as a character,” Kenny stated. He recalled a poignant interaction with a fan who identified as being on the spectrum, asking him directly if SpongeBob was autistic. Kenny responded affirmatively, saying, “Of course!” and added, “You know what? That’s his superpower, the same way that’s your superpower.”

This revelation was met with enthusiastic support from the audience, highlighting the positive reception of Kenny’s explanation. The actor’s comments resonated with many, reinforcing the idea that SpongeBob’s unique traits are a strength rather than a weakness. This perspective has been a point of discussion in the past as well.

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In a previous conversation on Marc Maron’s WTF podcast, Kenny elaborated on SpongeBob’s character, noting, “I don’t know what there is in that show that talks to kids that are on the autism spectrum, but more than other cartoons… because SpongeBob as a character is a little autistic. Obsessed with his job, very hardworking, gets really really deep into something.” This insight reflects Kenny’s ongoing recognition of SpongeBob’s attributes and their impact on audiences.

The show’s cast members have frequently discussed viewer reactions and personal connections to the show. Carolyn Lawrence, the voice of Sandy Cheeks, shared mixed feelings from her family. “I have two girls. My oldest never liked the show,” Lawrence confessed, adding, “But my youngest, I still hear her giggling. She’ll watch it, I can hear her laughing and laughing.” This anecdote underscores the varying responses to the show among viewers.

Kenny, who has children Mack and Nora with his wife Jill Talley, also shared his family’s experience with SpongeBob. “My kids grew up with SpongeBob being both the family business and also the biggest thing in the world with their classmates,” Kenny noted. “And maybe because our faces aren’t in it, they were always able to enjoy SpongeBob as something separate and apart from their dumb old parents. That was really good.”

Similarly, Bill Fagerbakke, the voice of Patrick Star, reflected on the show’s impact when he saw his own children’s reactions. “That was the way I realized the pilot was as good as I thought it was,” Fagerbakke remarked. His daughters, Carson and Hannah, enjoyed the pilot episode, confirming his belief in the show’s potential. Fagerbakke’s sentiment captures the enduring success and appeal of SpongeBob SquarePants over the years.

-Sushmita Sarkar