SpongeBob SquarePants finally cleared up one of its biggest mysteries, although fans may not like the answer, and may not know that it was even a mystery. The true identity of recurring character Old Man Jenkins has been revealed, and apparently, the canon version is the bearded fish pictured above. Thus, the mystery has been laid to rest and everyone can peacefully move on with their day after learning the news right? Of course not, and while some were fine following this news, others are still reeling following this animated shot to the gut few could've anticipated.
For those who haven't watched SpongeBob SquarePants in a while, Old Man Jenkins has been a recurring gag on the series since its earliest days, in which characters would refer to elderly fish men by that catch-all name. As seen in the video below, at least four different fish have been referred to by that moniker, but as the title indicates, only one is the true Old Man Jenkins:
Since the posting was made, the Facebook comments from the video have been flooded with people who dispute the claim that the green and bearded fish is the true Old Man Jenkins on SpongeBob SquarePants. Instead, many are pointing to the toothless and short green dude-fish with the glasses, who was featured very early on in the series. Others have also made a case for the brown-colored Old Man Jenkins to be the O.G. version, as he has the most consecutive appearances with a consistent look between episodes.
This has led to some in the community calling for a different solution to what is becoming one of the most controversial moment in SpongeBob SquarePants history, and the show has had quite a few. Some fans have suggested that all of the mentioned fish can continue to be recognized as Old Man Jenkins considering Jenkins is a common name and it's not at all uncommon for people to have the same name. Others have declared that an episode be created where each perceived version of Old Man Jenkins fights for ultimate supremacy, an idea that seems to be getting a fair amount of love from the fanbase. Meanwhile, the SpongeBob SquarePants team has remained silent, possibly unaware of the unrest it has caused amongst their fans.
Meanwhile, SpongeBob SquarePants episodes can still be watched regularly on Nickelodeon. Believe it or not, the show is in Season 11 and still has not "officially" released the formula to the Krabby Patty, although there are some who know its contents. For more on Nicktoons, be sure to watch that fabulous trailer for the Rocko's Modern Life revival or read about how the voice actor for Squidward landed himself in hot water last year. For more great television just around the corner, visit our fall premiere guide.
