Boris Badenov is an antagonist character in the 1959–1964 animated series Rocky and His Friends and The Bullwinkle Show, so often appearing with his devious accomplice, Natasha Fatale, that the two are usually grouped together, as Boris and Natasha, a reference to Boris Drubetskoy and Natasha Rostova in Tolstoy’s War and Peace. He was originally voiced by Paul Frees. The character was created by Bill Scott, who based his appearance on that of Gomez Addams.
Badenov's name is a pun on that of 16th-century Russian tsar Boris Godunov (i.e., "good enough" vs. "bad enough"). His accent and explosive temper are a homage to Hollywood actor Akim Tamiroff, During this commercial, Boris also claims to be "the world's greatest nogoodnik". Boris is also quite proud that the nicest thing Fearless Leader ever did for him was sending a picture of himself to Boris inscribed "Drop Dead — Fearless Leader". He is a master of disguise and aliases.