In the vast undersea metropolis of Bikini Bottom, countless background characters flit in and out of view, adding life and humor to the wacky world of SpongeBob SquarePants. Among these fleeting faces, one stands out – Incidental 70, the fish whose enthusiastic announcement, “Hey, SpongeBob’s back!”, catapulted him into cult hero status. But who is this enigmatic figure, and what lies beyond his catchphrase? Let’s dive deeper and uncover the mystery of Incidental 70.
Brief History: From Background Character to Fan Favorite
Appearing in only nine episodes across the first two seasons, Incidental 70 initially held a minor role. However, his instantly recognizable voice and energetic declaration in the episode “Pickles” resonated with fans. Years later, in 2021, he unexpectedly returned in “The Yard Sale” for The Patrick Star Show, sending shockwaves through the SpongeBob community.
More Than Just a Catchphrase: Unveiling His Personality
While limited screentime prevents a complete personality assessment, glimpses suggest Incidental 70 is:
Observant: He appears aware of events in Bikini Bottom, often noticing SpongeBob’s presence before others.
Enthusiastic: His signature announcement exudes genuine excitement.
Possibly mischievous: In “Fools in April,” he seems amused by Squidward’s cruel prank on SpongeBob.
Loyal: In “Your Shoe’s Untied,” he joins the riot against Squidward, perhaps indicating support for SpongeBob.
Theories and Speculations: Who is Incidental 70?
The lack of official backstory fuels fan theories. Some believe he’s a news reporter, while others speculate he’s a close friend of SpongeBob. Whatever his role, his sudden popularity underscores the power of fan engagement and the potential hidden depths of seemingly minor characters.
Pop Culture Icon: Beyond Bikini Bottom
Incidental 70’s influence extends beyond the show. He appears in video games, fan art, and even has his own dedicated merchandise. His unexpected comeback shows the enduring power of a well-placed line and the ability of background characters to capture hearts.
Legacy of Mystery: What Does the Future Hold?
Will Incidental 70 become a recurring character? Will his backstory be revealed? Only time and the creative minds behind SpongeBob SquarePants know. But one thing is certain: this unlikely hero has secured his place as a fan favorite, reminding us that even the smallest characters can leave a lasting impact.
Conclusion
Incidental 70, the seemingly ordinary fish with an extraordinary catchphrase, has defied all odds to become a beloved figure in the SpongeBob SquarePants universe. His journey from background character to fan favorite demonstrates the power of observation, enthusiasm, and a memorable line. While his future remains shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: Incidental 70 has secured his place as a testament to the power of fandom and the unexpected heroes that emerge from the world of animation.
FAQ
- Q: Will Incidental 70 ever have a bigger role in the show?
A: Unfortunately, there’s no official confirmation about his future appearances. However, his surprise comeback in The Patrick Star Show suggests the possibility of future cameos or even a larger storyline.
- Q: What other background characters in SpongeBob have gained fan followings?
A: Several background characters have achieved cult status, including Bubble Buddy, Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy’s fan, and the Dirty Bubble.
- Q: Where can I find more information about Incidental 70?
A: The SpongeBob SquarePants Wiki is a great resource for information on all characters, including Incidental 70. You can also find fan art, theories, and discussions about him online.
- Q: What can we learn from the popularity of Incidental 70?
A: His story reminds us that seemingly minor characters can leave a lasting impact, that observation and enthusiasm are valuable qualities, and that fan engagement can have a significant influence on media and pop culture.