Created by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, The Big Bang Theory is a popular CBS sitcom that lasted twelve seasons on the network. This show that ran from 2007-2019 is special because it features characters who all suffer from their own real issues such as social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and low self-esteem. The show teaches us that no matter what it is that sets you apart, you can always keep moving forward with the help of good friends. Let’s take a look at some of The Big Bang Theory’s most memorable characters and see how they rank.
10. Beverly Hofstadter (Christine Baranski)
In last place is the cold, socially inept mother of Leonard’s, Dr. Beverly Hofstader, who first made an appearance back in season 2 episode 15 called “The Maternal Capacitance.” The neuroscientist and psychologist is often seen drinking a perfectly curated cup of tea and putting her career first and relationships second.
9. Barry Kripke (John Ross Bowie)
Barry Kripke, the plasma physicist and Sheldon’s arch nemesis, is first introduced in season two when his robot “The Kripke Krippler” goes up against the gang’s in the Caltech robot competition. Kripke also has a thing for Sheldon’s long-time love interest Amy Farrah Fowler.
8. Stuart Bloom (Kevin Sussman)
Starting out as just a mere acquaintance and the owner of the local comic book store, Stuart ultimately became an integral part of the group. And in the later seasons he even became “roomies” with Howard, Bernadette and their young children.
7. Howard Wolowitz (Simon Helberg)
With the exception of his overly aggressive sexual energy, we love Howard for all that he is. From living in his nagging mom’s house to going to space, getting married and having children of his own, he has come quite a long way.
6. Rajesh Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar)
Raj is an astrophysicist with a fear of talking to women. The cure? Being drunk. While Raj might not have the best luck with females, he is an excellent scientist and friend. Raj was also featured in People Magazine highlighting his accomplishments.
5. Penny Hofstadter (Kaley Cuoco)
Penny is the warm and friendly neighbor we all wish lived next door. She is always there when you need her and her deep love and compassion makes an impact on everyone she comes in contact with. Sheldon, Leonard, Raj, Howard, Bernadette and Amy wouldn’t be the same without her support.
4. Leonard Hofsadter (Johnny Galecki)
Despite his small size and crippling mommy issues, he is the perfect man. I don’t know about you, but I for one think that the world could use more sweet, positive and selfless men like Leonard Hofstader. Plus, he is going to make a great father to his and Penny’s baby. It’s just too bad the show ended before we got to see it.
3. Amy Farrah Fowler (Mayim Bialik)
Although Amy doesn’t arrive until late season 3, she made quite a mark on the gang in the remaining seasons — most notably bringing emotion and romance into Sheldon’s life. The Harvard graduate and nobel prize winning neurobiologist is smart, kind and hard not to love.
2. Bernadette Rostenkowski Wolowitz (Melissa Rauch)
Ever since meeting Bernadette for the first time, we knew that we wanted her to stick around. From her unique look to her interesting name and strong sense of humor, Bernadette Rostenkowski Wolowitz is one awesome chick.
1. Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons)
All of the characters may have grown and changed throughout the years, but Sheldon grew the most. While social cues continue to evade Dr. Cooper, he definitely learned to place a higher value on his friends and family by the end of the twelve seasons, making his quirks much more endearing.
The Big Bang Theory is available to watch on HBO Max.
By Blair Krassen @blairlyawake