The Untold Story Behind the Creation of This Iconic Big Bang Theory Character
Discover the incredible impact of Melissa Rauch's Bernadette on Big Bang Theory, as she transformed Howard's character and became an integral part of the show's success
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Almost missing out on the opportunity to join the beloved TV show, The Big Bang Theory, one key character played a vital role in solving a major issue. Despite the show's initial focus on Jim Parsons' Sheldon and Johnny Galecki's Leonard, the creators had to tweak the pilot episode, ultimately adding Kaley Cuoco's Penny, Simon Helberg's Howard, and Kunal Nayyar's Raj as integral members of the cast. This decision proved to be pivotal in the immense success that The Big Bang Theory achieved, spanning over 12 sensational seasons.
As the show steadily gained a dedicated fan following, it became evident that the combination of a talented ensemble cast and an intriguing premise - revolving around a group of socially awkward geniuses - was resonating with audiences. While the show didn't experience instant success, the impact of the 2007 Writers Guild Strike indirectly contributed to its eventual rise as one of the most promising comedies of its time. Initially focusing on the stories of the five main characters, The Big Bang Theory eventually expanded its roster by incorporating recurring guests and introducing new regulars. However, one character, who turned out to be of utmost significance, narrowly avoided missing the chance to be a part of the show.
Melissa Rauch's Bernadette Was Only Meant To Be A Big Bang Theory Guest Star
Four years after The Big Bang Theory finale, Rauch revealed that her character, Bernadette, initially had a guest role in the show. She was introduced as one of Penny's co-workers at The Cheesecake Factory in season 3 and made multiple appearances, allowing her to interact with the main cast when they visited the restaurant. CBS recognized the potential in Rauch's portrayal of Bernadette and decided to promote her to a series regular in season 4.
From that point on, Bernadette remained a part of the nerd-centric sitcom until its conclusion in 2019. Although she may not have received as much attention as the original cast or even her fellow late-comer, Mayim Bialik's Amy, Bernadette played a crucial role in the show's storytelling.
How Bernadette Solved Big Bang Theory's Problematic Howard Issue
Bernadette often goes unnoticed as a character in The Big Bang Theory. She typically played a supporting role rather than being at the forefront of any major storylines. Her character development was primarily tied to her relationship with Howard. However, this was not necessarily a negative aspect, especially considering the impact she had on the show. Prior to Bernadette's introduction, Howard was portrayed as sleazy. While Sheldon was often rude and misogynistic, Howard was a shameless womanizer. Everything changed when he fell in love with Bernadette.
In retrospect, even Simon Helberg, the actor who played Howard, has acknowledged that his character had problems during the early years of the show. Given the show's already controversial reputation, with criticisms surrounding its style of comedy, it is fair to say that it would have faced even more scrutiny if it hadn't been able to address these issues through Howard. Perhaps unintentionally, Bernadette's arrival provided The Big Bang Theory with an opportunity to subtly correct its most controversial character. Their romance followed a traditional path: falling in love, getting married, and starting a family. Howard essentially gave up his playboy ways when he met Bernadette.
How The Big Bang Theory Would Have Looked Like Without Bernadette
The arrival of Bernadette had a profound impact on Howard and his future. Thanks to her, he was able to fulfill his long-standing desire for a family. It is hard to fathom how Howard's life would have unfolded if he had not met his wife. However, if CBS had stuck to their plan of only featuring Rauch as a guest star on The Big Bang Theory, there would have been significant changes.
Firstly, Penny would not have achieved success as a pharmaceutical representative because Bernadette would not have been there to introduce her to a new industry after she gave up on acting. Secondly, perhaps Raj would not have felt as lonely because Howard would have had more time to spend with him. There is even the possibility that they would have developed romantic feelings for each other, as implied by The Big Bang Theory on numerous occasions.
