6 of the Best TV Dads of All Time

What does it take to be a great TV dad? A mix of offbeat advice, unwavering loyalty, and the ability to show up even when they don’t have it all together.  

Peacock has rounded up six unforgettable onscreen fathers who may not be perfect, but they’ve sure got heart. They’re a little quirky, a bit brash, and sometimes even a tad insufferable, but they’ve become beloved TV characters for a reason. Check out these famous TV dads who always keep things interesting.

1. Phil Dunphy from Modern Family 

Phil Dunphy (Ty Burrell) is a quirky real estate agent who sees himself as a “cool” dad, though he’s really more well-meaning and good-natured than he probably thinks of himself as. In fact, he's always trying his best to connect with his three kids, Haley (Sarah Hyland), Alex (Ariel Winter), and Luke (Nolan Gould). Plus, he adores his wife, Claire (Julie Bowen). With his relentlessly optimistic attitude and supportive nature, Phil is the kind of dad who would show up to his kid's baseball game decked in full regalia, cheer the loudest from the stands, and then take the whole team out for pizza afterward.  

Watch Phil Dunphy in Modern Family. 

2. Mike Heck from The Middle 

A no-nonsense dad, stoic patriarch Mike Heck (Neil Flynn) doesn't say a lot but when he does, it speaks volumes. Devoted to his wife and three children (the youngest is a genius!) — who all have distinct personalities — Mike is a dedicated hard worker and always ready to show up for his family when it truly matters, often putting their needs before his own. 

Watch Mike Heck in The Middle. 

3. Julius Rock from Everybody Hates Chris 

The character of Julius Rock was inspired by Everybody Hates Chris creator Chris Rock's own real-life father. Played by Terry Crews, Julius’ larger-than-life presence is the perfect contrast to his teddy bear devotion to his wife and children. Unwavering in his support of his family, Julius often works two jobs to provide for them, passing down a strong work ethic to Chris and his other children. 

Watch Julius Rock in Everybody Hates Chris. 

4. George Lopez from George Lopez 

Comedian George Lopez didn’t have to venture far to play this TV dad, tapping into his real-life family experiences to step into the role. A working-class patriarch navigating family life and his job at an aviation factory, George often uses sarcasm and self-deprecating jokes to cope with his struggles. Still, he’s always there for his family and proudly celebrates their Hispanic heritage. 

Watch George Lopez in George Lopez. 

5. Doug Heffernan from The King of Queens 

A love of sports, weakness for junk food, and faithfulness to his family make Doug Heffernan (Kevin James) the relatable king of the "average Joe" dads. Doug’s not about all the bells and whistles — he just wants his life to be like a TV dinner: easy to prepare and ready to enjoy. When it comes to the people he loves — his family, friends, and even his kooky father-in-law — Doug wants everyone to be happy. What else would we expect from a good-natured delivery driver? 

Watch Doug Heffernan in The King of Queens. 

6. Red Forman from That '70s Show 

Look up “tough love” in the dictionary and Red Forman (Kurtwood Smith) will be the first name on the list. Red may have a gruff, icy exterior — he's a war veteran who likes things done right — he’s about as loyal of a father as you can get. Even though Red can hurl an insult faster than a curveball, he’s committed to his wife Kitty and always there for his son Eric, and his eclectic group of friends (who spend way too much time in the Formans’ basement).

Watch Red Forman in That '70s Show. 

From tough love to comic relief, these TV dads do it all. Watch their most iconic moments, now streaming on Peacock.