Tom Kenny, the voice actor behind SpongeBob SquarePants, has revealed that his beloved cartoon character is autistic. This admission came during a recent appearance at the Motor City Comic Con in Novi, Michigan, where Kenny shared his thoughts on SpongeBob’s personality.

When asked if SpongeBob was autistic, Kenny responded, “Of course! I said, ‘You know what? That’s his superpower, the same way that’s your superpower.'” This response highlights the positive aspects of being on the autism spectrum and encourages acceptance and inclusivity.

This revelation is not entirely new, as Kenny had previously hinted at SpongeBob’s autistic traits in a 2013 interview with Marc Maron. At the time, Kenny stated, “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.”

SpongeBob SquarePants creator Stephen Hillenburg had also suggested that the character was “romantic but almost asexual,” which was supported by the 2001 episode “Pressure,” where SpongeBob reproduces by budding like a real sea sponge.

SpongeBob SquarePants star Tom Kenny revealed that his cartoon alter ego is autistic in a newly-unearthed video from his May 19th appearance at Motor City Comic Con in Novi, MI

2024 marks the 25th anniversary of SpongeBob SquarePants, and Kenny is frequently approached by fans who thank him for “their childhood.” In a recent interview with CBS Sunday Morning, Kenny expressed his gratitude for the show’s impact, saying, “It’s incredible. I mean, things like that happen all the time… SpongeBob lets his freak flag fly. He is who is, and it’s amazing that folks find that very empowering that are now grown-ups or or even little kids now.”

Kenny also noted that SpongeBob’s optimism is balanced by his ability to experience a range of emotions, stating, “If SpongeBob was nothing but optimistic that wouldn’t be a very good show so SpongeBob does get down in the dumps. SpongeBob does get discouraged. SpongeBob does feel sad but he bounces back he he comes back you know, ‘Well there’s always tomorrow!'”

The 62-year-old voiceover actor said in the video posted by X user @DominoDeerGirl on Tuesday: ‘SpongeBob’s kind of on the spectrum too as a character. This last con that I did in McAllen, TX – it was the first time I’d ever been asked this question — a person who was obviously on the spectrum came up to me and said, “I have a question for you, Tom Kenny. Is SpongeBob himself autistic?”‘

On July 13, Kenny and co-star Bill Fagerbakke, who voices SpongeBob’s best friend Patrick Star, virtually co-hosted Nickelodeon’s Kids Choice Awards, which was dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the show.

In other news, SpongeBob SquarePants was officially renewed for a 15th season, which is set to premiere in either October or November on Nickelodeon.