The One Character Who Made Howard's Role in The Big Bang Theory Truly Iconic

While Howard Wolowitz, a supporting character on The Big Bang Theory, was well-liked, his storyline could have been a disaster without the addition of another character to the cast. As The Big Bang Theory neared its end, the show faced criticism for how some of its main characters were portrayed. Similar to the reevaluation of Ross from Friends and Ted from How I Met Your Mother after their respective shows concluded, the lead characters of The Big Bang Theory faced backlash for their perceived misogyny.

Among the cast, Leonard, the main character of The Big Bang Theory, received the most criticism, although he was not the most obviously problematic member of the group. Howard Wolowitz was known as a sleazy and creepy character who used manipulative tactics to pursue women. In the early seasons of the show, Penny could hardly tolerate him. However, despite these flaws, Howard became a fan-favorite on the popular sitcom.

Howard’s Big Bang Theory Character Wore Thin Quickly

Sheldon and Raj's character flaws were seen as more endearing than Howard's sleazy behavior. Sheldon, unaware of his rudeness, had a comically exaggerated bluntness, while Raj's extreme shyness prevented him from even speaking to The Big Bang Theory's Siri in a dream. In contrast, Howard had no shortage of confidence, but his inappropriate comments consistently made female characters uncomfortable. His constant pursuit of Penny crossed personal boundaries, yet he was still portrayed as lovable, unlike the morally questionable characters in Seinfeld or It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia.

The intention behind Howard's inability to win over women was to make his creepiness more acceptable, but this didn't translate well. Simon Helberg's exaggerated performance made it impossible to take Howard seriously, yet The Big Bang Theory did little to make his character likable or redeemable in the show's early seasons. However, the show managed to overcome this issue.

Bernadette Changed Howard’s Character (For Good)

Adding Melissa Rauch's character, Bernadette, to The Big Bang Theory was a brilliant and necessary move by the showrunners. Bernadette's presence allowed for substantial growth in Howard's character, as well as providing depth to both Howard and Bernadette themselves. Unlike many one-dimensional sitcom characters, Howard's relationship with Bernadette transformed him into a better person. Furthermore, Bernadette's early introduction allowed for a believable and long-lasting change. By the final season, Howard had evolved from a self-centered narcissist into a loving partner and father.

Out of the entire friend group in The Big Bang Theory, Howard, being the most flawed, experienced the most significant character development. However, the show wisely initiated this transformation early on. While Leonard and Penny's relationship in the series faced multiple breakups and reconciliations, Howard and Bernadette maintained a more consistent path. Surprisingly, considering Howard's creepy behavior in the early seasons, their romance became the healthiest one in The Big Bang Theory.

Bernadette and Howard Inadvertently Hurt Another Big Bang Theory Couple

The success of Howard and Bernadette's relationship shed a negative light on Leonard and Penny's. Howard's growth and improvement only highlighted Leonard's shortcomings, while Bernadette and Howard's consistency exposed the flaws in Penny and Leonard's relationship, making it less romantic in comparison.

Although the central relationship in The Big Bang Theory, Penny and Leonard's partnership was not always the strongest. Leonard's insecurities stemmed from their initial unequal footing. Despite this, they were still an adorable couple. However, it is ironically surprising that a character who was initially the most toxic in their friend group ended up in a more mature and balanced relationship than the supposed protagonists of the show.