Even the most devoted fans of The Big Bang Theory might be surprised by the secrets and behind-the-scenes details from the set of the iconic sitcom. From surprising casting decisions to unexpected on-set antics, the beloved series had just as much drama and intrigue offscreen as it did on.
Here are 10 fascinating facts about The Big Bang Theory that shed light on its stars, guest appearances, and the show’s legacy.
1. Kaley Cuoco Took a Piece of the Set Home
When filming wrapped in 2019, Kaley Cuoco couldn’t part with one special keepsake from Leonard and Sheldon’s apartment: a poster she had admired for 12 years.
“It’s something I love so much, and it’s always in my eyeline from where I sit in the living room set,” Cuoco shared. “I’m glad I’m going to put it in my own living room so I’ll see it forever.”
2. Kaley Cuoco and Johnny Galecki Navigated Sex Scenes Post-Breakup
Cuoco and Galecki, who dated for two years during the early seasons, had to tackle awkward moments when their characters’ intimacy ramped up after their real-life breakup.
“When we broke up, it was a little sensitive at first, but then Chuck [Lorre] wrote all these episodes where our characters were suddenly sleeping together all the time,” Cuoco joked. “We think he did it on purpose just to mess with us.”
Despite the initial discomfort, the pair remain close friends to this day.
3. HBO Max Is Working on a Spinoff
In 2023, HBO Max announced a second spinoff of The Big Bang Theory, following the success of Young Sheldon.
While details remain under wraps, original cast member Mayim Bialik expressed interest in reprising her role as Amy Farrah Fowler. “I’ll do anything related to this universe,” she shared.
4. Johnny Galecki’s Dressing Room Confession
In a candid 2019 interview, Johnny Galecki admitted to having sex in his dressing room during the show’s run. For those wondering, Kaley Cuoco was quick to clarify that she wasn’t involved!
5. Sandra Bullock and Selena Gomez Almost Appeared
The show was known for its high-profile cameos, from Elon Musk to Carrie Fisher. However, Sandra Bullock and Selena Gomez were two stars who almost joined the lineup.
Executive producers revealed that Bullock turned down a cameo due to scheduling conflicts, while Gomez was considered for a role as Amy’s stepsister but couldn’t make it work.
6. Kaley Cuoco Almost Didn’t Play Penny
Originally, Cuoco was passed over for the role of Penny due to concerns about her age. A year later, producers reconsidered and brought her back to audition. It turned out to be the perfect fit, with Cuoco becoming a defining face of the series.
7. The Cast Took Pay Cuts to Support Co-Stars
The original five cast members—Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Simon Helberg, and Kunal Nayyar—took pay cuts of $100,000 per episode in the show’s final two seasons. This decision allowed Melissa Rauch and Mayim Bialik to negotiate higher salaries, reportedly raising their pay to $450,000 per episode.
8. The Staircase Set Had a Secret
The building’s staircase on the show was an optical illusion, leading only to a fake wall. Kunal Nayyar revealed that Johnny Galecki used the hidden wall to stick his chewing gum during the series’ 12-year run.
“So if any fans want his dried gum, it’s probably for sale somewhere online,” Nayyar joked.
9. Some Guest Stars Struggled With the Show’s Style
While many A-list stars appeared on the show, Kaley Cuoco shared that the fast-paced comedic timing threw off several dramatic actors. “It’s like music,” Cuoco explained. “If you’re off by even a second, it can mess up the whole thing.”
10. Macaulay Culkin Rejected the Show Three Times
Macaulay Culkin revealed that he turned down a role on the show multiple times, unimpressed by the pitch. Looking back, he admitted he might have missed out on millions but quipped, “At the same time, I’d be bashing my head against the wall.”
These behind-the-scenes tidbits reveal just how much more there was to The Big Bang Theory beyond the laugh track. The legacy of the show continues to thrive, with fans eagerly awaiting what comes next in its expanding universe.
