As you’ve probably noticed, Cleveland Junior has put on some weight. So much in fact, that he is unrecognizable when compared to his earlier appearances. We at The Cleveland Show Blog have been kicking around some theories as to how he became so portly, here’s our top 3 list.
3. Genetics
Cleveland Sr. and Loretta are both slightly overweight, though by no means obese. It is possible that Cleveland Jr inherited genes that make him predisposed to being plump. We have not yet met any of his grandparents, uncles or aunts so we have no definitive proof that this is the case.
2. Divorce
It is entirely within the realm of possibility that Cleveland Jr gained weight as a result of his parents’ nasty divorce. He had a somewhat stable environment that was rocked the day that Loretta decided cheat with Quagmire. Children frequently have trouble dealing with a divorce and tend to find ways to cope.
1. Junk Food
Childhood obesity is one of the biggest problems facing American youth, and we think that Cleveland Jr may have formed a love affair with fatty foods and sweets. We have already seen a clip of him snacking on a chocolate bar so this is probably the best theory as to why he has become obese.
What Gives?
So why did Mike Henry choose to morph Cleveland Jr from an energetic young boy to a fat, lethargic one? Our best guess is for laughs. For some, fat equals funny and the writers will probably use that angle to exploit Cleveland Jr’s character.
Maybe they thought that as he was, Cleveland’s son was forgettable, plain and boring. In any case, we will meet the new Cleveland Jr soon when “The Cleveland Show” premieres September 27th on FOX.
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{ 13 comments… read them below or add one }
Yes, unfortunately fat people are funny. I think of this every time I garner a laugh. How much less funny would I be without the extra pounds? One can only wonder.
dam, i didnt know that was Jr. wow thats really funny.
here’s my theory. In Family Guy, we see Cleveland Jr as a hyperactive child. In this new show, quite the opposite. His parents probably got him on a medication to combat the hyperactivity (ADD/ADHD?). The medication and accompanying sedentary lifestyle caused the weight gain.
I agree with Kevin. Maybe he got on some meds and started eating A LOT more in which caused a drastic gain in weight lol.
Yea I saw a picture of him on the website with a chocolate bar in his hand LOL
Genius, fat=funny, Don, don’t lose a pound
I watched the show and it sucked. Sad to say.
Yeah, I agree with Kevin too. I was thinking that myself. But the old Cleveland Jr was funnier. Honey Comb kid yeah, yeah, yeah!!!! I don’t like the fat version, him being hyper was funnier. Maybe they can take him off his meds so he can go back to his old self….
Oh yeah…. Look at me I’m Tiger Woods!!!! lol
I personally liked the old Cleveland Jr. and although I agree with the theories (I’m voting for a mix between 2 + 3 – emotional eating caused by his parent’s divorce), I disagree that he was boring. He was an underdeveloped character yes but he had potential. Hyperactivity would’ve been a better angle to explore than obesity for laughs.
eh, I find it kinda annoying. I thought his character was cute before. Now he’s just stereotypical and boring >.>
I’m the opposite, I much prefer his new persona. He is more like his dad and is one of the few likable & sympathetic character’s in MacFarlane’s shows.
Regarding grandparents, One episode did involve Cleveland Sr’s parents. Cleveland Jr’s grand father is Freight Train Brown. He is muscular and in top physical shape, unlike his son and grandson. His wife is Cookie Brown, who is in moderate shape for some one her age which is most likly her late 60′s or early 70′s.