Best TV Dads

"The Cosby Show's" Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable, otherwise known as Cliff, has been the standard-bearer for TV fathers since the 1980's. Funny, wise, and caring, he raised his children with a steady hand and a quick smile.

Ward Cleaver, the father from the utopian "Leave it to Beaver," always had the right words for his sons. He was rarely cross and when he was, the anger was typically followed by gentleness. He may not have been the most realistic dad, but he was a good one none-the-less.

The father on "My Three Sons," Douglas has long been synonymous with great TV parenting. A great role model for his sons, he could easily be in the dictionary next to the entry for "TV Dad."

If this were best TV husbands, "Bonanza's" Cartwright would be bringing up the rear due to the fact that his three wives met tragic endings. Fortunately, this list is about TV dads, and Cartwright was a good one. He raised his three sons in the rough and tumble West and did so admirably. His boys, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe, each displayed fine character and a good heart, the obvious result of good parenting.

Coach Eric Taylor is the best character among great characters in the critically acclaimed, yet little-watched "Friday Night Lights." In addition to raising two daughters, Taylor proves his mettle by teaching the students on his football team how to be men.