master splinter doesn't have a father/son relationship with the turtles, as suggested in other versions, but more of a teacher/student bond. in fact, in "turtles forever" the old 1987 series turtles are surprised when the 2003 series turtles call splinter "father". however, in this movie, the 2003 series leonardo comments that it feels right to be with the 1987 splinter regardless of the differences between the two worlds. splinter's assurances that he feels the same, coupled with his comment that leonardo and his brothers will always be welcome there, helps leonardo see the common similarities between the teams, regardless of their different styles and methods. in addition, in an episode called "the old switcheroo", splinter shows a glimpse of fatherly concern for leonardo when he is injured by one of donatello's contraptions. master splinter gets the chance to be human again in the episode "splinter no more", but realizes he prefers being with the turtles. master splinter always has a wise quote or speech for the turtles and often steps in with his ninja skills when the turtles are caught in a, seemingly inescapable, predicament.