Wild Card with Rachel Martin Raphael Bob-Waksberg doesn’t forgive, but he forgets
Sep 11, 2025
Raphael Bob-Waksberg, creator of the acclaimed series BoJack Horseman, dives into the complexities of grief, faith, and identity through animation. He reflects on how his early experiences with boredom fueled his creativity and shaped his approach to storytelling. The conversation touches on the role of mentorship in parenting and the emotional layers embedded in his new show, Long Story Short. Bob-Waksberg candidly discusses evolving beliefs about religion while navigating loss, emphasizing the importance of connection and kindness in the face of sorrow.
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Time Jumps Build Immediate Intimacy
- Raphael framed Long Story Short as a family show that jumps around in time to create deep familiarity quickly.
- The time-jumping structure lets viewers feel they've known the family for years after one season.
Grief Is Nonlinear And Transformative
- Raphael explains grief as a non-linear, recurring process that reshapes relationships after death.
- He asks whether relationships can change or be repaired posthumously through reflection and memory.
Animation Lets You Blend Goofy And Tragic
- Raphael says animation lets creators mix extreme humor and deep sadness without feeling maudlin.
- He learned on BoJack Horseman that goofiness and tragedy together create a richer emotional feast.
