Sometimes we are disappointed by our feminist icons because we expect them to be everything to everyone. But icons, just like all great fictional characters, are nuanced and complicated, not to mention sometimes laid to waste by the hands of their creators (*cough* like having the X-Files’ Scully get suddenly knocked up at age 50 and being excited about it *cough*).
Tina Belcher, the eldest daughter in Fox’s Bob’s Burgers, is the young feminist we both need and deserve. She’s more than just her love for boys and butts. She has the optimism of Leslie Knope, the bravery of Olivia Benson, the confidence of Mindy Lahiri, and the adorkable, neurotic obsessiveness of Rebecca Bunch.
The creators claim that the character of Tina Belcher was originally supposed to be a teenage boy and that they just switched the gender while keeping Dan Mintz’s sultry, amazing voice. However, recently a new theory (as in, only from this writer) has emerged that Tina Belcher is actually the origin story of Tess McGill, Melanie Griffith’s timeless character from Working Girl.
Consider this: a smart, sensual young woman growing up working class who has a head for business and a bod for sin.
Working Girl, 1988
And then this:
Just sayin’.
Though only 13, Tina is a proud, young, small business owner (babysitting) who finds comfort in following the rules. However, she also stands up for what she believes in, even against respectable authority figures, if she feels it is the right thing to do. Like when they spread misinformation, suggesting kissing can lead to death via mono or that it is standard immigration policy to rip families apart…
Like any great third-wave feminist, Tina puts other women in front of her even when love is on the line. Instead of hating on the girl who was her crush’s chosen Valentine’s date, she saves her from his crappy date, not wanting to humiliate and hurt another woman despite her own wounded heart. Though only 13, Tina would definitely hold your hair back while you threw up and sobbed in a bar bathroom, even if the source of your torment was her ex-boyfriend who she still has feelings for.
She’s humble, but confident, like any boss bitch.
She’s nurturing and kind (her words, but still true) and leads by example and action. She boosts up others’ self-esteem, even her own father’s.
Her generosity and integrity range from housing her obnoxious, mean-girl bully to busting up a teachers’ party to retrieve her sociopathic sister’s Pokemon-esque card game.
Tina’s independence and confidence is something we should all strive for, no matter our gender affiliation. After all, who wouldn’t want to rock a pink leotard?
