The Big Bang Theory has been a fan-favorite for years, sparking countless debates about which character truly steals the show. While Jim Parsons’ Sheldon Cooper has long been considered one of the standout characters, even Wil Wheaton, who famously had a love-hate relationship with Sheldon on the show, shifted his favorite character to someone unexpected—Bernadette.
Initially, Wheaton shared during a Comic-Con interview that Sheldon was his favorite character. But after Melissa Rauch joined the cast as Bernadette in season 3, that changed. Wheaton admitted, “I’ve had it with your sh**t, Bernadette is now my absolute favorite character.” This shift happened after the character was reimagined as someone stronger and more assertive, especially in episodes like the season 7 scavenger hunt titled “The Scavenger Vortex.”
In this episode, Bernadette’s competitive side is on full display, and it’s a hilarious sight to see. Producer Steven Molaro explained that they were uncertain what to expect when they “unleashed Bernadette’s inner fury,” a moment that set the stage for her transformation from sweet and innocent to formidable and fiercely determined. Wheaton found this evolution particularly entertaining and praised the show for highlighting her assertive side, especially as her relationship with Howard grew deeper and more meaningful.
Melissa Rauch’s Impact on The Big Bang Theory
Melissa Rauch’s entrance on The Big Bang Theory was a game-changer for the series. While she was initially brought on for a one-time appearance in the episode “The Creepy Candy-Coating Corollary,” fans quickly fell in love with her chemistry with Howard (played by Simon Helberg). This response led to her becoming a series regular by season 3, along with Mayim Bialik, who played Amy Farrah Fowler.
Rauch’s portrayal of Bernadette brought more depth to the show and shifted the dynamic among the group. Before joining The Big Bang Theory, Rauch had been working small roles in various shows and films, but her role as Bernadette changed the trajectory of her career. The character’s popularity not only provided financial stability for Rauch but also cemented her place in Hollywood for years to come.
Behind the Pay Gaps and Later Raises
Although Rauch and Bialik gained more recognition after joining the show, they initially earned significantly less than their male co-stars. While the main cast members were making around $1 million per episode, Rauch and Bialik’s salaries started at $200,000. This pay disparity was eventually addressed when the main cast agreed to take pay cuts, allowing the actresses to earn $425,000 per episode by the later seasons.
Wheaton’s admiration for Bernadette highlights how The Big Bang Theory managed to add depth to its supporting characters, making them just as memorable as the main cast. It’s a testament to the show’s evolving storytelling and its ability to create moments that resonate with both viewers and the actors themselves.
