How SpongeBob SquarePants’ autism could create more positive disability representation in media
SpongeBob SquarePants, the beloved cartoon character from Nickelodeon’s children’s animation with a sunny disposition and yellow color, has been identified as having autism traits by his voice actor, Tom Kenny. During a panel at Motor City Comic Con in May, Kenny acknowledged a fan’s question about this topic, stating: “Absolutely! That’s part of what makes SpongeBob special, just like how your unique qualities define you.”