Now, before I begin this deep dive psychoanalysis of my favorite Netflix show’s main characters, I’d like to note that this is simply an opinion piece based on my perspective as a superfan (and, admittedly, a lot of Reddit threads). I think, like many other fans, that one reason this show resonates so profoundly with people is because each character is incredibly complex and unique. From personality disorders to toxic self-sabotaging tendencies, Bojack Horseman reaches into the nitty-gritty of our identities, far more than any other show. So, whether you’re a major fan like myself or you just watched one episode and found yourself relating to one character more than the others, here is my brutally honest opinion on what it might have to say about you.
Bojack
Ahhhh, the star of the show: Bojack Horseman. First off, I would like to personally applaud you for your self-awareness if you admit that he’s either relatable or your favorite character. Bojack has a very complicated personality and often relies on quick fixes and escapism to cope with his internal struggles, including depression, narcissism, and intense loneliness. While Bojack is quite likable because of his own self-awareness and dark humor, he fails to make any real change when it comes to becoming a better person. Instead, he becomes self-destructive, blames his childhood trauma, and accepts reality as disappointing rather than stepping outside of his comfort zone. So if you’re anything like Bojack, maybe you feel stuck, or hopeless, like there’s no real happy ending to anything. Sometimes your overwhelming thoughts of despair might eat you up inside so much that you start to believe that’s simply your reality. Overall, you probably act on toxic, self-sabotaging impulses, leading you to yo-yo in and out of mentally draining spirals. You might take from others without even realizing you’re doing so, because you feel like you deserve it after everything you’ve been through. Lastly, you may struggle with moving on from the past and staying positive.
Diane
Like Bojack, Diane Nguyen also struggles with depression and trauma, although she deals with it in an entirely different way. Diane, though lacking strong self-esteem, prides herself on her moral integrity and her consistent commitment to finding true happiness. She’s loyal, honest, independent, and quirky, yet sometimes she fails to see those qualities in herself. Diane struggles most with self-worth and inner peace, constantly fighting battles in her own head. She believes that because of her trauma and being bullied—often treated as the black sheep of her family—it all serves some greater purpose and will eventually fuel her growth. But at the same time, she worries that because she lacks meaningful, lasting relationships, maybe there’s just something wrong with her. If you find yourself relating to Diane, you’re probably somewhat insecure as a result of harmful societal expectations or your past upbringing. You may have a difficult time forming genuine relationships and connections, and you often overthink the meaning behind the major challenges life throws at you. However, you stay true to your values, and even though you sometimes struggle to love yourself, you know you deserve true peace—and you’ll stop at nothing to find it.
Mr. Peanutbutter
All my people-pleasers unite! Mr. Peanutbutter is the epitome of the coping mechanism. He’s the most positive character in the series, always seeing every situation as the glass half full. However, this constant desire to stay in a good mood sometimes stunts his emotional growth. Because Mr.Peanutbutter fears sadness and avoids serious confrontation, he often fails to understand those around him or empathize with those he’s closest to. For example, when he’s in a relationship with Diane, even though he claims to love her, he struggles to really sympathize with her mental health issues because he doesn’t allow himself to dwell on those kinds of emotions. I believe because of this, he acts this way somewhat unconsciously and still has a big heart, but it does make him more immature and gives him a more surface-level mindset. Mr.Peanutbutter fans may do anything to protect themselves from talking about darker, more worrisome topics. They tend to view everything through a rose-colored lens because they don’t know how to handle life any other way. However, they still care deeply about others, always making an effort to make people laugh and put a smile on their faces. You’re likely very optimistic and solution-oriented, which makes you a great team player, even though you may struggle with understanding more intense and uncomfortable feelings.
todd
Todd Chavez is a character that’s almost impossible to hate. Although he’s Bojack’s best friend and can be quite lazy, often lacking direction, he’s also an active listener, emotionally intelligent, and someone who learns from his mistakes. He’s a great friend, even when he hasn’t been shown as much grace in return. But he also doesn’t let people walk all over him, especially those who repeatedly take his friendship for granted…ahem, Bojack. Todd accepts himself the way he is and encourages others, even those who aren’t much like him, to embrace their inner individuality. He’s laid-back, loyal, creative, and kindhearted. And even though he sometimes isn’t the brightest crayon in the box, he always has good intentions. If Todd is your favorite, you probably value authenticity and keeping things real. You’re the type of friend who tells people the hard truth, rather than just giving them what they want to hear. You’re grounded and try to keep yourself in check with reality. Even though you might sometimes get sidetracked easily, you always end up finding your rhythm. You’re also likely curious about life and tend to question big ideas and concepts. Even when others think you’re just talking nonsense, you don’t let it discourage you from learning more about yourself.
Princess carolyn
Forgive the bias, but I take my girl, Princess Carolyn, very seriously. Princess Carolyn is arguably the hardest worker in every room, and oddly enough, still the one with the biggest heart. Many fans believe she has high-functioning depression, which makes a lot of sense based on the way that she shows up for everyone except herself throughout the series. She tends to overexert herself in both her career and her personal life, going out of her way to help other people with their problems while avoiding her own. She’s ambitious, trustworthy, and without a doubt one of the most reliable friends you could ask for. Because of her past, she’s used to disappointment and tries not to be so hopeful, although deep down she longs for true companionship and to be understood. If you find yourself relating to her, you’re probably hyper-independent, undeniably persistent in everything you do, and sensitive deep down. You likely hold back from opening up to people, even though that’s what you secretly yearn for the most.
Sarah lynn
If you’re at a stage in your life where you feel like you relate to Sarah Lynn the most, I wish I could give you a vacation, or even a hug, because that must be a chaotic headspace to constantly be in. Sarah Lynn, like Bojack, deals with depression and serious substance abuse issues. She’s never felt safe love, growing up as a child star always under the spotlight. Although the media portrays her as a typical celebrity party girl who’s gone off the deep end, she really just longs to feel okay. She’s reckless and chaotic, with severe abandonment issues that often lead to her attaching herself to people who aren’t good for her, resulting in trauma bonds. Those of you who connect with Sarah Lynn probably carry a lot of deep-rooted childhood trauma, along with dangerous coping mechanisms and a scary disregard for your own well-being. You may have never experienced a truly healthy relationship, which can make chaos and unpredictability feel almost normal. Above all, you just want to feel loved.