Do You Remember Bob Ross?

When I was in my 30s, I occasionally watched a PBS instructional series on painting, starring a tall, White guy with an afro named Bob Ross. During the 11 years he appeared on The Joy of Painting, he recorded more than 400 videos.

Ross had a gentle, upbeat way of speaking – not unlike Mr. Rogers – that made him easy to watch and learn from. Plus, he used and taught techniques that were easy to replicate at home.

I thought my interest in him was esoteric. I’ve never known anyone else that watched him. In fact, I don’t think he or his show ever made their way into any conversation I’ve ever had.

When Netflix released a documentary about Ross in 2021, I was surprised to discover that there was more to him than “happy little clouds and trees.” Titled Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed, it was revealing and somewhat disturbing. And now it turns out that a feature film loosely based on his life – titled Paint – will be airing next month on Netflix. Another surprise. This one’s a comedy! And it will be starring Owen Wilson, of all people, as the Bob Ross-esque character.

Take a look at the trailer here.