With the single exception of Star Trek fans, there’s perhaps nothing considered more quintessentially geeky by non-geeks than the comic book enthusiast. And it’s clear to see just how the categorical characterisation is perpetuated when we look at how they’re portrayed on some popular TV shows. Now, we’re not necessarily talking popular among geeks, so be prepared to be offended on some fronts and amused on others…

Heroes – Season 3 Episode 19 Shades Of Grey March 2009 Masses of Heroes worshippers were put off by the very recent portrayal of graphic novel shoppers as cowering, leering guys who evidently had never seen a real live girl in their RL realm. But equally appalling was Claire’s apparent lack of any prior knowledge of Wednesdays. Even-handed slights were dealt to comic fans and cheerleaders alike.

Rocko’s Modern Life – Season 1 Episode 8 Canned October 1993 The self-assured and socially adept wallaby of the title has a turtle friend, who is by contrast a neurotic, obsessive-compulsive paranoid hypochondriac. We first met Filbert in the comics megastore, suffering for his fanaticism, along with a couple other ‘typical’ customers.

Malcolm In The Middle – Season 2 Episode 21 Malcolm Vs. Reese April 2001 Co-worker and friend of the family (with a crush on Malcolm’s mom), Craig Feldspar is a comic collector attending a convention while Malcolm’s dad and brother Dewey look after his cat. The costume says it all.