"Gilligan" is a fictional character from the television show Gilligan's Island, which aired from 1964 to 1967. He is portrayed by actor Bob Denver and serves as the bumbling first mate of the S.S. Minnow. The show follows a group of castaways stranded on a deserted island after a boating accident. Gilligan is known for his clumsy antics and good-hearted nature, often causing humorous mishaps that hinder the group's attempts to escape the island. The character has become iconic in popular culture, representing the archetype of the well-meaning but inept sidekick.