When you think of SpongeBob SquarePants, iconic characters like SpongeBob, Patrick, and Squidward immediately come to mind. However, the rich underwater world of Bikini Bottom is filled with an array of quirky, funny, and often overlooked characters who add depth and charm to the show. These unsung heroes might not always take center stage, but they play a crucial role in creating the unique humor and heart of SpongeBob SquarePants. Let's dive into the most underrated characters who deserve more recognition.
1. Karen the Computer Wife - The Most Underrated Character of SpongeBob SquarePants
Karen, the sentient computer and wife of Plankton, may not get as much screen time as her villainous husband, but her deadpan humor and intelligence often steal the show. As Plankton’s voice of reason, she is the brains behind many of his evil schemes, but it’s her sarcastic remarks and dry wit that make her stand out. Despite being tied to Plankton’s endless failures, Karen remains a resilient, clever character who consistently adds a layer of wit to the series.
2. Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy
This dynamic duo of retired superheroes is often overshadowed by the main characters, but their parody of classic superhero tropes is pure comedic gold. Mermaid Man, with his nonsensical ramblings, and Barnacle Boy, with his straight-laced but grumpy demeanor, provide hilarious moments that spoof classic superhero teams like Batman and Robin. Their episodes are packed with humor, nostalgia, and action, making them fan favorites whenever they appear.
3. Larry the Lobster
While Larry may come across as the stereotypical gym bro of Bikini Bottom, there’s more to him than meets the eye. As the town’s resident bodybuilder and lifeguard, Larry is often seen flexing his muscles or competing in physical challenges, but his interactions with SpongeBob SquarePants and the other characters often reveal a surprisingly laid-back, friendly nature. Larry’s chilled-out vibe and his unique brand of over-the-top confidence make him an enjoyable side character who deserves more appreciation.
4. Bubble Bass
Bubble Bass might be remembered for his infamous lie about the missing pickles in one of the early episodes, but this recurring character embodies the epitome of the overly critical customer trope. His pompous attitude and love of food make him a memorable antagonist to SpongeBob SquarePants’s usually cheery demeanor. His return in later episodes only solidified his role as one of the more humorously antagonistic characters in the series, proving that his original claim to fame was only the beginning of his antics.
5. The Flying Dutchman
As Bikini Bottom's resident ghost pirate, the Flying Dutchman doesn’t get the spotlight as often as he deserves, but his episodes are filled with spooky fun and hilarious misadventures. His mix of terror and comedy, along with his over-the-top pirate persona, makes him a character worth remembering. Whether he's haunting the Krusty Krab or teaching SpongeBob SquarePants how to be scary, the Flying Dutchman brings a unique supernatural flair to the show.
6. Perch Perkins
Perch Perkins, the news anchor of Bikini Bottom, is a constant presence in the background of many episodes. While he’s often delivering news of chaos or disaster, his calm, professional demeanor contrasts hilariously with the often ridiculous nature of the events he's reporting on. Though not a central character, Perch’s serious take on absurd situations adds a layer of humor that’s easy to miss if you don’t pay attention.
7. Old Man Jenkins
Old Man Jenkins appears in various forms throughout the series, often as a background character or a punchline to a joke. His consistent role as the elderly, confused citizen of Bikini Bottom adds charm to the series. Whether he’s yelling about newfangled technology or being caught in the middle of some wacky incident, Old Man Jenkins represents the classic “grumpy old man” archetype, and his cameos are always a delightful surprise.
8. Man Ray
Man Ray, one of the recurring villains in SpongeBob SquarePants, is often paired with the equally evil Dirty Bubble in Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy’s superhero storyline. His over-the-top villainous persona and dynamic with the other characters—especially when SpongeBob and Patrick try to reform him—bring a lot of humor to the show. His exaggerated evil laugh and dramatic tendencies make him a standout villain who deserves more credit for his comedic value.
9. Mrs. Puff
Mrs. Puff, SpongeBob SquarePants’s long-suffering boating school teacher, is an underrated character who adds a lot of humor to the series. Her constant anxiety and dread over SpongeBob SquarePants’s inevitable driving disasters make her relatable to anyone who’s been in a stressful teaching position. While she appears frequently, her moments of dry humor, frustration, and even occasional moments of rebellion show a depth to her character that’s often overshadowed by SpongeBob SquarePants’s antics.
SpongeBob SquarePants has captivated audiences for years, not just because of its main characters but due to its colorful and diverse cast of supporting players. Characters like Karen, Larry the Lobster, and Mermaid Man might not always take the limelight, but their moments in the spotlight bring added depth, humor, and heart to the series. Next time you watch an episode, pay close attention to these underrated gems—they're a big part of why SpongeBob SquarePants remains a timeless classic.
