Beth has several different father figures in The Queen's Gambit. 1 / 7
But Mr. Shaibel is the true paternal presence in her life. 2 / 7
Shaibel taught Beth chess and encouraged her abilities. 3 / 7
Despite being stoic, he was loving and respectful in his own way. 4 / 7
Whereas Beth's real and adoptive fathers were neglectful or abusive. 5 / 7
Throughout her ups and downs, Beth reiterates how much Shaibel means to her. 6 / 7
And their relationship becomes clear when Beth finds his "proud dad" bulletin board. 7 / 7