To celebrate Father's Day this year we look back at the black television dads who graced our screens and worked their ways into our hearts.
1. Heathcliff Huxtable, The Cosby Show
Bill Cosby’s Cliff Huxtable is perhaps the most revered TV dad. With his humorous life lessons, Cliff made everyone, including the audience, feel like part of the family. Dr. Huxtable was also killing the sweater game.
2. Michael Richard Kyle Sr., My Wife and Kids
Michael Kyle, portrayed by comedian Damon Wayans, taught his kids life lessons with “Michael Kyle Signature Moments.” Who wouldn't want a dad with a good sense of humor?
3. Julius, Everybody Hates Chris
He may have been cheap, but Julius, played by Terry Crews, showered his family with love.
4. Rowan “Eli” Pope, Scandal
We know what you’re thinking: “Why Papa Pope?” Rowan Pope, played by Joe Morton, is arguably the most powerful man in Scandal’s America. Plus, who can forget the tongue lashing he gave to President Fitzgerald Grant? His read of Fitz alone is enough to make him one of our favorite dads.
5. Carl Winslow, Family Matters
Carl Winslow, portrayed by actor Reginald VelJohnson, put up with Steve Urkel. That’s enough for him to make the list of favorite dads.
6. George Jefferson, The Jeffersons
George Jefferson, played by actor Sherman Hemsley, moved his family to a deluxe apartment in the sky and had crackfire wit to boot.
7. Bernie McCullough, The Bernie Mac Show
Bernie Mac, known by his full name, Bernie McCullough, on the series, graciously took in his sister’s children even if they did give him a hard time.
8. James Evans Sr., Good Times
James Evans, portrayed by actor John Amos, worked hard to provide for his family. Despite the difficulties of living in one of Chicago’s most downtrodden housing projects, James kept the family together.
9. Frank Mitchell, Moesha
Frank Mitchell, played by William Allen Young, was a stand-up guy and came clean, even when it was the hard thing to do.
10. Philip Banks, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Judge Philip Banks, better known as Uncle Phil, embraced Will “The Fresh Prince” Smith as his own. James Avery, who portrayed Uncle Phil, died on Dec. 31, 2013 at the age of 68.
Diamond Sharp is an editorial fellow at The Root. Follow her on Twitter.