The Big Bang Theory: Exploring the Romances of the Pasadena Gang

Romantic Relationships in The Big Bang Theory

The Big Bang Theory featured several prominent romances, but they're not all created equal. While The Big Bang Theory's core story was about the friendship of the Pasadena gang as they navigate their respective personal and professional lives, it expanded its storytelling by delving into their romantic prospects. This further humanized its characters and added a layer of entertainment to its viewers. It also made The Big Bang Theory more appealing to viewers who weren't exactly interested in geek culture or the scientific exploits of the characters.

Raj and Anu dressed up for Halloween on The Big Bang Theory

Romances had always been part of the sitcom. From the moment Leonard met Penny in The Big Bang Theory pilot, it became clear that the show would have a love aspect in the show. This shouldn't be surprising, considering that most ensemble sitcoms include a romantic plot. However, what made The Big Bang Theory's love stories special is that it showed how socially awkward people navigate dating and relationships. Still, some romantic partnerships in the sitcom were done better than others.

Leonard and Penny Dressed Up in The Big Bang Theory

Raj and Anu: A Missed Opportunity

Throughout the majority of The Big Bang Theory's run, Raj was bullied over being more in touch with his feminine side. Despite jokes about his supposed secret homosexual relationship with Howard, his romantic pursuits are with females. Unfortunately, all his relationships always fail despite all his attempts to be the perfect partner. As he saw his peers get married one by one, Raj understandably became more desperate to find a partner leading him to ask his dad to set him up with someone in The Big Bang Theory season 12. Dr. Koothrapalli came through and quickly found her a girl that she could marry Anu.

A successful concierge living in Los Angeles, who is driven and no-nonsense, Anu's first interaction with Raj was a disaster. Apparently, they had differing opinions regarding arranged marriage. It was eventually resolved, and the pair went on to continue dating. Unfortunately, before The Big Bang Theory could fully explore their relationship, the plot was dropped because the producers didn't see enough chemistry between the characters. As a couple, Raj and Anu had a lot of potential. Sadly, The Big Bang Theory gave up on it way too early.

Sheldon and Amy: A Slow-Burn Love Affair

Despite The Big Bang Theory being an ensemble, Sheldon was arguably its true lead. His quirks became a big part of the show's storytelling. So when Raj and Howard claimed to have found his perfect match, viewers were intrigued. The debut of Amy in The Big Bang Theory season 3 finale changed Sheldon and the show in general. Her existence and slow-burn love affair with Sheldon showed that there may be a future where he could get married. The Big Bang Theory leaned on the popularity of their partnership, arguably even more than they needed to, which resulted in a happily-ever-after for the couple.

Jim Parsons as Sheldon and Mayim Bialik as Amy in The Big Bang Theory season 11, episode 24 at their wedding

After their wedding, the nerd-centric sitcom focused on the pair's Nobel Prize bid, which ended with them eventually winning in The Big Bang Theory finale. Despite their great ending, however, it's worth noting that the pair's dynamic wasn't exactly ideal. For the most part, Amy had to be more understanding and accommodating to Sheldon. Granted that it could be chalked to how much Amy loved Sheldon, but she shouldn't have to carry most of the burden to keep their relationship moving. Sheldon eventually improved, but his progress was so painstakingly slow, that Amy continues to parent him in the future, per Young Sheldon.

Sheldon and Amy's wedding in The Big Bang Theory