The Big Bang Theory: Unraveling the Forgotten Storylines
A Tale of Missed Opportunities
The beloved sitcom, The Big Bang Theory, bid farewell in 2019 after an impressive 12-season run. During its lengthy journey, the show masterfully juggled numerous storylines, transforming characters and their trajectories. However, amidst this creative chaos, some narratives slipped through the cracks, leaving viewers with a sense of intrigue and curiosity.
The Disappearance of Cinnamon, the Yorkie
Cinnamon, the adorable Yorkshire terrier, made a splash in Season 5 as Raj Koothrappali's beloved pet, a gift from Bernadette and Howard. Raj's affection for Cinnamon was immediate and intense, almost bordering on the uncomfortable. For a while, it seemed like Cinnamon was destined to become an iconic TV animal, joining the ranks of Marcel from Friends and Eddie from Frasier. But alas, Cinnamon's journey took an unexpected turn.
As the show progressed, Cinnamon's presence faded into the background. She became a rare cameo, with her agency diminishing to that of an inanimate object. Her crowning moment, if one could call it that, was peeing on Leonard off-screen in Season 10. It's as if the show realized the limits of Raj's affection and decided to distance itself from this narrative thread, opting for other comedic avenues.
Leslie Winkle: A Narrative Dead End
Leslie Winkle, portrayed by the talented Sara Gilbert, was a promising addition to the show's early seasons. She brought chaos and laughter, especially with her hostile attitude towards Sheldon Cooper. Leslie's presence added a dynamic contrast to the comparatively meek main characters, particularly Leonard. However, after establishing herself as a recurring character in Season 1 and a main cast member in Season 2, Leslie's story took an abrupt turn in Season 3.
Executive producer and writer Steve Holland shed some light on Leslie's exit, calling it a thematic experiment that didn't pan out as expected. The show aimed to highlight female scientists, but finding the right role proved challenging. Sara Gilbert filled this role initially, but by Season 3, her presence had diminished. This narrative choice left many fans wondering about the potential impact Leslie could have had on the show's trajectory.
The Iconic Time Machine's Mysterious Disappearance
Remember the massive, sled-like time machine from George Pal's 1960 film, The Time Machine? Leonard purchased this intriguing device in Season 1 of The Big Bang Theory, and it quickly became a fun running joke. The characters, especially Sheldon, Leonard, Raj, and Howard, were obsessed with it. However, despite its promising start, the time machine disappeared without a trace, never to be seen or mentioned again.
However, there's a glimmer of hope for time machine enthusiasts. The upcoming spin-off, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, focuses on Stuart Bloom's reality-breaking adventure after messing with a mysterious machine. While the details are still unclear, it's possible that this machine bears a striking resemblance to Leonard's impulse purchase all those years ago. Perhaps the time machine will make a triumphant return, resolving its lengthy absence.
The Mysterious Fate of Alex Jensen
Doctoral student Alex Jensen made a promising entrance in Season 6 as Sheldon Cooper's assistant. She brought a unique dynamic to the show, being one of the few normal characters amidst the eccentric scientists. Alex's arrival also brought a healthy dose of drama, as she became romantically interested in Leonard Hofstadter, setting her on a collision course with Penny.
Unfortunately, Alex's story took an unexpected turn. After just four episodes, she faded into the background, possibly due to the actress's commitment to another major recurring role or the show's inability to continue her powerful initial arc. Alex's disappearance left many fans wondering about the potential impact she could have had on the show's narrative.
Penny's Self-Improvement Journey: A Constant Undermining
The makers of The Big Bang Theory realized the imbalance of having multiple male geniuses and a single female character who was a waiter/bartender. To address this, they introduced female scientist characters like Leslie Winkle, Bernadette, and Amy Farrah Fowler. However, in an attempt to maintain an 'average Jane' character, the show routinely undermined Penny's efforts to improve herself.
Penny's self-betterment aspirations were consistently cut short. Her potentially profitable business ideas, such as the shoe-shopping app and the successful Penny Blossoms hair decor business, were soon forgotten. The show even buried her time at Pasadena Community College, a significant development in Season 6, choosing to focus on the interference she faced rather than her academic achievements.
The show's 'never give Penny a major intellectual win' credo is a controversial choice, leaving many fans questioning the narrative direction and the potential impact it had on Penny's character development.
And this is where the controversy lies. What do you think? Did The Big Bang Theory do justice to these storylines, or did they leave you wanting more? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
