The Elusive "Unknockable": Navigating Public Approval and Enduring Merit

In a world saturated with divisive figures and fleeting fame, identifying individuals who transcend widespread criticism and command near-universal admiration is a surprisingly difficult, yet revealing, exercise. This conversation, hosted by Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker on "The Press Box," delves into the concept of "The Unknockables" -- individuals who, despite their public profiles, seem to emerge from societal and cultural cauldrons relatively unscathed. This exploration isn't just about celebrating universally liked personalities; it's a subtle analysis of what qualities, career trajectories, and societal roles contribute to such enduring, if not absolute, approval. The hidden consequence revealed is how our collective agreement on certain figures acts as a societal anchor, providing a shared sense of value amidst chaos. Those who appreciate this nuanced perspective will gain insight into the dynamics of modern celebrity, cultural impact, and the enduring power of genuine, widely recognized merit.

The Elusive "Unknockable": Navigating the Minefield of Public Approval

The quest for "The Unknockables" -- individuals who seem to possess an almost Teflon-like immunity to widespread public disdain -- is a fascinating lens through which to examine contemporary culture. Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker, in their May issue of "The Press Box," embark on this ambitious project, attempting to identify figures across various domains who, despite living under intense public scrutiny, manage to maintain a broad base of approval. This isn't about finding universally loved saints, but rather those who, even with a few detractors, largely escape the venomous polarization that defines so much of our current discourse. The analysis reveals that achieving this status is less about avoiding controversy entirely and more about building a career and persona that resonates deeply and consistently across diverse audiences, often through decades of dedicated work and a perceived authenticity.

The Temporal Nature of Acclaim: When "Undeniable" Becomes "Unremarkable"

The very premise of "The Unknockables" is challenged by the temporal nature of public opinion. As David Shoemaker points out, a similar exercise at the beginning of The Ringer, called "The Undeniables," found that "almost all of them" were no longer on that list. This highlights a critical system dynamic: what is considered universally admired today can be, and often is, subject to rapid obsolescence. The immediate payoff of current popularity is often fleeting, creating a deceptive sense of security for public figures. The "win" in identifying an unknockable isn't just about current approval, but about a durability that withstands the shifting sands of cultural relevance. This is where conventional wisdom fails; it often focuses on immediate impact rather than long-term resonance. The challenge, then, is to discern those whose work and public presence possess a foundational quality that allows them to endure.

"The Undeniables. And it was interesting to see how many of those people were no longer on the list, which is to say almost all of them. So there's a little bit of temporality to this. There was a little bit of, you know, you acknowledge that it's a thing of the moment, but it aspires to be something much bigger than the moment."

-- David Shoemaker

The discussion around basketball commentators like Hubie Brown and Bill Raftery exemplifies this. While both have garnered significant praise, the conversation pivots on whether this acclaim is a lasting testament to their skill or a more recent, potentially transient, appreciation. The "late career respect" for Hubie Brown, for instance, suggests a recognition that accrues over time, often after a figure has navigated decades of public commentary. This delayed payoff, while not always immediately apparent, can create a significant competitive advantage in terms of public perception, as it implies a sustained quality that outlasts fads.

The "Dolly Parton Principle": Universal Appeal Through Consistent Positivity

Dolly Parton emerges as a near-perfect embodiment of the "unknockable" ideal. Her inclusion in categories like "Country Music Superstars" is met with an immediate and unqualified "yes." The narrative around her performance in a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader outfit, singing "We Are The Champions," illustrates a key dynamic: her ability to embrace the absurd and the celebratory with genuine warmth, making even the unconventional feel universally appealing. This isn't about avoiding criticism; it's about cultivating an overwhelming positive association that dwarfs any potential negatives.

"Dolly Parton, that's just a yes. That's just an unqualified yes. 100% yes."

-- Bryan Curtis

The conversation around Willie Nelson further explores this, noting his "Dow of Willie" -- a distinct aura that transcends political leanings. The fact that even those who might disagree with his politics can still appreciate his iconic status speaks to a deep cultural embedment. This suggests that "unknockability" can sometimes be achieved by becoming so intrinsically linked to a cultural identity (in Willie's case, Texas) that partisan divides become secondary to shared regional pride. The underlying system here is one where a figure becomes a cultural touchstone, a shared asset that transcends individual affiliations.

Auteurs and Artists: The Nuance of Enduring Creative Legacies

The category of "Auteurs" brings a different kind of complexity. Martin Scorsese, for example, is deemed "unknockable" not because he lacks critics, but because the loudest criticisms often come from within the film buff community, wishing for something different. This implies that a certain level of critical engagement, even if it’s nitpicking, can paradoxically reinforce an artist's status. The system adapts to accommodate these critiques, viewing them as the natural discourse surrounding a long and prolific career.

Steven Spielberg's inclusion, despite a brief moment of doubt over the title Disclosure Day, highlights how a consistent track record of quality, even with occasional missteps, can build a formidable defense against widespread negativity. The idea that he is a "machine" that "would be hard for him to get something utterly wrong" speaks to a perceived reliability that fosters trust and minimizes the impact of any single less-than-stellar project. This is a long-term investment in public goodwill, where consistent output builds a reservoir of positive association.

Mel Brooks, another nominee, presents a fascinating case. While acknowledging that some of his older material might be considered problematic by today's standards, the overarching sentiment is that he has "aged into becoming this saint." This transformation from a boundary-pushing comedian to a beloved cultural figure demonstrates how societal norms evolve, and how figures who once challenged those norms can, over time, be embraced for their pioneering spirit. The system here is one of cultural re-evaluation, where past transgressions are re-contextualized by enduring contributions.

The "Childhood Discovery" Advantage: Nostalgia as a Shield

The category of "Childhood Discoveries" introduces the powerful element of nostalgia. Judy Blume, a perennial favorite, is celebrated for her enduring impact, with the hypothetical "midlife crisis Fudge" book illustrating the enduring affection for her characters. This is a clear example of a delayed payoff, where the initial work done decades ago continues to yield positive associations. Bill Watterson, the creator of Calvin and Hobbes, is discussed, but ultimately deemed too much "a thing of the past" for this specific exercise, underscoring the need for a degree of current relevance, even for beloved figures.

Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of Mario and Zelda, is a compelling inclusion. The fact that his creations remain icons for new generations, despite the passage of time, points to a fundamental design philosophy that transcends technological shifts. Similarly, Michael J. Fox and Henry Winkler, while perhaps less actively producing new iconic work, benefit from a deep well of goodwill built over decades. The "unknockable-ness" here stems from a lifetime of positive association, a kind of earned capital that insulates them from contemporary criticism.

Navigating the "Space Traveler" Paradox: Distance and Admiration

The "Space Travelers" category presents a unique challenge. Buzz Aldrin, despite his historical significance, is noted for his political endorsements and past confrontations. However, the sentiment remains that he is "hard to find... knockable in any way." This suggests that for figures associated with monumental achievements like walking on the moon, certain personal or political peccadilloes become secondary to the magnitude of their accomplishment. The system here is one where historical significance acts as a powerful buffer.

Patrick Stewart and Mark Hamill represent the enduring appeal of beloved franchises. Stewart, in particular, is highlighted for his "low wattage definite" status -- not necessarily a superstar, but universally appreciated. The anecdote about his hilarious appearance on Extras reinforces the idea that even self-deprecating humor and a willingness to be part of a joke can enhance one's unknockable status. This reveals a strategy where embracing one's public persona, even with a touch of humility, can solidify positive regard.

The "Centenarian Thespians" and the Weight of Time

The categories of "Centenarian Thespians" and "Nonagenarian Thespians" bring the element of extreme longevity into play. Dick Van Dyke, while a beloved figure, sparks a debate about whether his current status is due to enduring merit or simply the novelty of his age. Carol Burnett, however, is quickly affirmed as "on the list," suggesting that a career marked by consistent, joyous entertainment, even if from a different era, carries significant weight. Julie Andrews' inclusion, despite a debate about her singing ability, is maintained for "symmetry" with the original Esquire list, a nod to historical continuity. This hints that sometimes, historical precedent and a sense of legacy can contribute to an unknockable status, even if current performance is debated.

The "Octogenarian" and "70-Something" Advantage: Maturity and Evolving Perceptions

As actors enter their later decades, their public perception often shifts. Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman, and Harrison Ford are discussed. Ford's "giddy" demeanor in recent interviews, a stark contrast to his earlier "jerk" persona, illustrates how aging can soften public perception, turning perceived arrogance into endearing confidence. The idea that "who doesn't love Harrison Ford?" reflects a powerful accumulation of positive associations over a long career.

The "70-Something Actors" category brings Meryl Streep, Samuel L. Jackson, and John Goodman into focus. Goodman, in particular, is praised for escaping the Roseanne controversy "untainted and perfect," a testament to his consistent acting quality and perceived integrity. Arnold Schwarzenegger's situation highlights a different dynamic: a career in semi-retirement and a perceived lack of strategic career moves, despite his inherent star power. This suggests that even a strong foundation can be undermined by a perceived lack of engagement or direction.

The "60-Something Actors" and the "Unknockable" Duo

Tom Hanks is presented with a caveat: "all the crazy people think that he like kills kids and steals their shoes." This highlights the peculiar nature of "unknockable" status -- it often means weathering even the most outlandish accusations without significant damage. George Clooney, Julianne Moore, Frances McDormand, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Angela Bassett, and Keanu Reeves are all considered. Louis-Dreyfus's inclusion on a previous Ringer list and Reeves's perceived "aging into" his status suggest that consistent presence and a positive public evolution contribute significantly. The "duo" category, featuring Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, and Joe Buck and Troy Aikman, indicates that shared success and complementary public personas can amplify unknockable qualities, creating a combined appeal that transcends individual careers.

Authors of "Important Books": The Enduring Power of Storytelling

Stephen King's inclusion as "unknockable" is particularly interesting, given his active political presence on Twitter. The argument is made that the "vast majority of people who buy Stephen King books" are likely unaware of or indifferent to his online persona. This points to a decoupling of artistic output from personal politics for some figures, where the sheer volume and quality of their creative work create a protective shield. Robert Caro and Margaret Atwood represent a more literary form of unknockability, where decades of meticulous research and insightful prose build an unassailable reputation. The discussion around David Grann and Patrick Radden Keefe highlights the shrinking cultural footprint of authors, suggesting that even significant literary success might not translate to the same level of broad public recognition as in previous eras.

"Pint-Sized Mascots" and the Unexpected Universality of Charm

The "Pint-Sized Mascots" category, featuring Punch the Orphan Monkey and Grogu (Baby Yoda), delves into the realm of manufactured and real-life cuteness. Punch's appeal is framed by the hypothetical of cleaning his cage -- a practical consideration that highlights the difference between appreciating a public figure and wanting to interact with them daily. Grogu's perceived "tainted brand" suggests that even beloved characters can suffer from overexposure or association with less successful projects. This category reveals that genuine, unadulterated charm, whether animal or artificial, can be a powerful, if sometimes fleeting, form of unknockability.

Musicians "Taking Victory Laps": The Soundtrack of Our Lives

Musicians who have achieved legendary status often benefit from being the "soundtrack of our lives." Paul McCartney, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, and John Williams are prime examples. Williams, in particular, is described as potentially "the most unknockable person in the world" due to his ubiquitous film scores. The conversation around Stevie Wonder and Elton John highlights how sustained relevance, even through mentorship roles (like Wonder on American Idol), can maintain a positive public image. Weird Al Yankovic's inclusion is particularly insightful; his career built on parody and humor, while inherently lighthearted, has achieved a surprising level of respect and durability, making him perhaps "the most unknockable of anyone you've mentioned."

"Dames and Sirs": The Gravitas of Titles and Lifelong Dedication

Titles like "Dame" and "Sir" often confer a certain gravitas. David Attenborough is universally beloved for his lifelong dedication to nature. Helen Mirren, Judi Dench, and Anthony Hopkins, while celebrated actors, also face the challenge of being perceived as "great actors of our generation" rather than universally "unknockable." The anecdote about Anthony Hopkins not showing up at the Oscars illustrates how even minor perceived slights can create a ripple of debate. The inclusion of Sir Alex Ferguson, a football manager, suggests that success in highly competitive fields, combined with a long and impactful career, can also lead to a form of unknockable status, even among those who might have once been rivals.

TV Hosts and Presenters: The Balancing Act of Public Persona

TV hosts and presenters operate under constant public scrutiny. Ernie Johnson's consistent accolades and David Letterman's evolution from "thorny" to "huggable" illustrate how a public persona can be refined over time, building goodwill. Christiane Amanpour's unwavering journalistic integrity makes her a strong contender, while Prue Leith's retirement from The Great British Baking Show signifies a transition to a more relaxed phase of public life, often associated with increased favorability. The discussion around Adrian Chiles, whose Wikipedia page lacks controversy, points to a less common but effective path to unknockability: simply avoiding significant public missteps.

Sports People: The Arena of Intense Fandom and Fierce Rivalry

Sports figures are inherently divisive due to the tribal nature of fandom. Active players like Steph Curry and Shohei Ohtani face the challenge of immediate public opinion. Andy Reid, however, is posited as potentially "the most unknockable" coach, suggesting that consistent success and a positive demeanor can transcend team loyalties. Barry Sanders and Bo Jackson are highlighted as retired athletes whose legacies are largely untarnished by controversy, embodying a pure athletic excellence that resonates across generations. Sandy Koufax and Billy Jean King represent individuals whose impact extends beyond their athletic careers, garnering broad respect for their character and activism.

Public Intellectuals: The Tightrope Walk of Opinion and Influence

Public intellectuals inhabit a precarious space, where their opinions are both their currency and their potential downfall. Neil deGrasse Tyson's inclusion is debated, with arguments about his political leanings and "overexposure" potentially making him "knockable." Penn and Teller, conversely, are praised for their enduring appeal and Penn Jillette's accessibility. Jon Stewart, despite his divisive political commentary, is considered because he is "actually funny" and willing to "take shots at the left," suggesting that a willingness to engage across the spectrum, even critically, can foster a broader respect.

"People That Bring Us Closer to God": The Unlikely Candidates

This category,