WHO IS THE DADBOD?
GenXer, Father, Veteran, Social Media Creator, Comedian
Jon Wellington — known online as The Dadbod Veteran or DBV — is a U.S. Navy veteran turned social-media storyteller and comedian who has built a brand around Gen X nostalgia, blunt satire, and first-person recollections of “the times before.”
He came to wider attention by posting short, conversational videos that blend humor with lived experience, and now reaches millions of followers across short‑form and long‑form platforms.
Jon served in the U.S. Navy onboard 2 Aircraft Carriers and began posting as The Dadbod Veteran in 2022, originally intending to preserve stories for family and grandchildren. A TikTok clip about “pizza delivery before GPS” was an early viral moment that accelerated his audience growth and set the tone for his nostalgic, conversational content.
Today DBV creates short‑form comedy and commentary across major platforms. He also participates in the GenX Takeover live-comedy events and tour, along with The Real Slim Sherri, Kelly Manno, and Mr. Professor Nick Harrison. DBV offers personalized videos through Cameo, public speaking appearances and operates an official merchandise store for DBV Nation. Across those channels he commands an audience in the multi‑millions (more than 5.5 million across all platforms).
Jon and Mrs. DBV have taken up residency in Northwest Arkansas area and remains publicly active in both entertainment and community outreach.