Jay Johnston’s recent sentencing to a year in prison for his role in the January 6 Capitol riot serves as a stark reminder of the chasms that can exist between personal choices and public personas. As someone who has enjoyed his work on “Bob’s Burgers” and “Mr. Show,” I view this situation with a mix of sadness and bewilderment. It’s hard to reconcile the comedic roles I’ve appreciated with the real-life actions of a man who participated in one of the most violent attacks on American democracy in recent history.
Johnston’s participation in the riot, where he was seen actively interfering with law enforcement, paints a troubling picture.… Continue reading
The claim that being an “acclaimed actor” places someone above the laws they choose to break feels audacious, bordering on delusional, particularly in the case of the “Bob’s Burgers” star known for his portrayal of Jimmy Pesto. The reality is that if you decide to take part in a violent insurrection, the consequences should follow regardless of your occupation or status. Johnston’s situation stands as a stark reminder that actions have repercussions, and attempting to evade accountability because of a perceived celebrity status only compounds the audacity of his actions.
It’s intriguing how he frames his legal troubles as the result of being targeted due to fame.… Continue reading
As I sit down to reflect on the recent news of a former actor from ‘Bob’s Burgers’ pleading guilty to interfering with police during the Capitol riot, I can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment and disbelief. Jay Johnston, who portrayed the antagonistic character Jimmy Pesto on the show, is now making headlines for his involvement in such a disturbing event. It’s a stark reminder of how life can sometimes imitate art in the most unexpected and unsettling of ways.
I have always been a fan of ‘Bob’s Burgers’ and the talented individuals who bring its characters to life. However, seeing someone like Jay Johnston, who played the obnoxious Jimmy Pesto, being linked to such a reprehensible act is truly disheartening.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood