By Watson 
Mr. Peanutbutter is one of the most memorable characters in BoJack Horseman, Netflix’s critically acclaimed animated series. As a charming, energetic, and perpetually optimistic Labrador Retriever, Mr. Peanutbutter stands in stark contrast to the show’s cynical protagonist, BoJack. Despite his cheerful demeanor, Mr. Peanutbutter is a complex character with layers of depth that unfold throughout the series.
Personality and Characteristics
Mr. Peanutbutter is best known for his boundless enthusiasm and unwavering positivity. He approaches life with a childlike sense of wonder, often refusing to acknowledge negativity or hardship. His catchphrase, “What is this, a crossover episode?” perfectly encapsulates his playful and sometimes oblivious nature.
Despite his outward cheerfulness, Mr. Peanutbutter exhibits signs of insecurity and a deep desire for validation. He constantly seeks approval from others and struggles with self-reflection, often deflecting serious issues with humor and optimism. His need for external validation sometimes leads to impulsive decisions and strained relationships.
Relationships and Marriages
Mr. Peanutbutter has had a series of high-profile relationships throughout BoJack Horseman. He has been married multiple times, each relationship highlighting different aspects of his personality.
- Katrina: His first wife, Katrina, was a strict and controlling partner who often criticized him for his carefree attitude. Their relationship was defined by power struggles, with Katrina attempting to mold Mr. Peanutbutter into someone more disciplined.
- Jessica Biel: His second marriage was to actress Jessica Biel. The two had a passionate but unstable relationship, ultimately ending due to their differing lifestyles and ambitions.
- Diane Nguyen: His most significant relationship in the show was with Diane, a thoughtful and intelligent writer. Their marriage was characterized by deep emotional conflicts, as Diane often felt that Mr. Peanutbutter’s relentless positivity overshadowed her personal struggles. Their eventual divorce was a poignant moment in the series, illustrating the difficulty of maintaining a relationship when fundamental emotional needs aren’t met.
- Pickles Aplenty: Following his divorce from Diane, Mr. Peanutbutter began dating and later proposed to Pickles, a younger and equally energetic dog. Their relationship, however, faced complications when Mr. Peanutbutter had an affair with Diane. Though he attempted to make amends, their relationship became a symbol of his repeated mistakes and lack of personal growth.
Career and Achievements
Mr. Peanutbutter’s career trajectory is as erratic as his personality. He first gained fame as the star of Mr. Peanutbutter’s House, a sitcom that was eerily similar to Horsin’ Around, the show that made BoJack famous. Despite its lack of critical acclaim, the series maintained a loyal fanbase and cemented Mr. Peanutbutter’s status as a beloved celebrity.
Over the years, he dabbled in various ventures, including running for governor of California—a campaign that was largely a joke but gained unexpected traction. His inability to take politics seriously ultimately led to his downfall, reinforcing the idea that while he exudes confidence, he often lacks depth in his pursuits.
Relationship with BoJack Horseman
Mr. Peanutbutter and BoJack have a complicated relationship. Although Mr. Peanutbutter consistently tries to befriend BoJack, the latter harbors deep resentment toward him. BoJack sees Mr. Peanutbutter’s success as undeserved, attributing it to luck rather than talent. However, Mr. Peanutbutter, in his usual good-natured manner, remains mostly oblivious to BoJack’s animosity.
Throughout the series, their interactions highlight the stark contrast between their personalities. BoJack represents cynicism and self-loathing, while Mr. Peanutbutter embodies optimism and self-assurance. Despite their differences, Mr. Peanutbutter occasionally serves as a voice of reason, offering BoJack moments of genuine kindness and insight.
Hidden Depths and Personal Growth
While Mr. Peanutbutter may initially seem like a one-dimensional happy-go-lucky character, the series slowly unveils his deeper struggles. He grapples with feelings of inadequacy, particularly in his relationships, where he often tries too hard to be the “perfect” partner without addressing his own emotional needs.
His inability to reflect on his past mistakes keeps him in a cycle of failed relationships and shallow ambitions. However, toward the later seasons, there are glimpses of personal growth. While he never undergoes a drastic transformation like some other characters, he begins to acknowledge his flaws and make small efforts toward change.
Cultural Impact and Fan Reception
Mr. Peanutbutter is a fan-favorite character, celebrated for his comedic timing and uplifting presence in an otherwise dark and introspective show. His personality serves as both comic relief and a contrast to the series’ more serious themes. Many viewers appreciate his ability to remain joyful despite life’s challenges, while others criticize his lack of depth and emotional accountability.
Nonetheless, Mr. Peanutbutter’s role in BoJack Horseman is crucial. He adds levity to the series while also representing a different kind of existential struggle—one where a person hides their insecurities behind a facade of happiness.
Conclusion
Mr. Peanutbutter is much more than just a cheerful dog with an infectious personality. He represents both the power and the pitfalls of unyielding optimism. His journey throughout BoJack Horseman highlights the importance of self-awareness and the challenges of maintaining genuine relationships. While he may not undergo a dramatic transformation, his character leaves a lasting impression, showing that even the happiest individuals have their own struggles to face.
FAQs
Why does Mr. Peanutbutter always wear sunglasses?
Mr. Peanutbutter’s sunglasses are part of his signature look, adding to his carefree and Hollywood-esque personality. They might also symbolize his reluctance to confront reality.
Did Mr. Peanutbutter truly love Diane?
Yes, he loved Diane in his own way, but their differences made it impossible for their relationship to thrive. He struggled to understand her deeper emotional needs, which ultimately led to their separation.
Why did Mr. Peanutbutter run for governor?
He ran for governor mostly as a joke, but his popularity unexpectedly made him a serious contender. However, his lack of political knowledge and commitment led to the campaign’s collapse.
Does Mr. Peanutbutter ever change?
While he remains largely the same, he does show some growth by acknowledging his mistakes and trying, even in small ways, to become a better person.
What is Mr. Peanutbutter’s role in BoJack’s life?
He serves as a foil to BoJack, representing the opposite side of the spectrum—joy and success without deep self-reflection. However, he also acts as a reminder that happiness alone does not equate to fulfillment.