The revival of Night Court has become a delightful treat for fans of both the original series and The Big Bang Theory. This reboot brings back the quirky charm of the original, which starred Harry Anderson as Judge Harry Stone, while adding fresh faces to the courtroom. One of the most exciting connections between the two sitcoms is Melissa Rauch, best known as Bernadette from The Big Bang Theory, who now stars as Judge Abby Stone in the new series.
While Rauch plays a leading role in the reboot, she’s not the only alum from the beloved science-based sitcom to appear in Night Court. So far, two more stars from The Big Bang Theory have made guest appearances, offering delightful reunions and clever nods for fans who follow both shows.
Melissa Rauch: From Bernadette to Abby Stone
Melissa Rauch leads the Night Court cast as Abby Stone, the optimistic and compassionate judge presiding over the courtroom. Her character is a departure from Bernadette Rostenkowski-Wolowitz, the witty and assertive wife who often had to deal with her husband’s quirky antics.
Despite their differences, Abby and Bernadette share some intriguing parallels. Both characters are often underestimated—Bernadette because of her high-pitched voice and Abby due to her unwavering positivity. However, both prove they are far more capable and astute than they appear. Abby’s optimism is not naivety; it’s a choice born from her life experiences, much like Bernadette’s intellect often surprised those who judged her too quickly.
Kunal Nayyar: From Raj to Martini Todd Wallace
Kunal Nayyar, who played the lovable astrophysicist Raj Koothrappali on The Big Bang Theory, was the first castmate to join Rauch on Night Court. In Season 2, Episode 7, Nayyar guest-starred as Martini Todd Wallace, a flamboyant fashion designer who climbs through a courthouse window to escape the paparazzi.
In the episode, Martini becomes romantically involved with Abby, creating an amusing dynamic that cleverly nods to Nayyar’s Big Bang Theory role. Raj was often teased for harboring a secret crush on Bernadette, making this subplot a fun inside joke for longtime fans. Adding to the humor, Abby remarks to Martini, “There’s something weirdly familiar about you… have we met before?”
Mayim Bialik: A Double Reunion
Mayim Bialik, who portrayed Amy Farrah Fowler on The Big Bang Theory, will soon appear in an upcoming Night Court episode airing January 14, 2025. Bialik’s guest role is especially noteworthy as it serves as a double reunion. Not only will she share the screen with Rauch, but she also starred as John Larroquette’s daughter in The John Larroquette Show decades earlier.
In a twist, Bialik will play a fictionalized version of herself in Night Court, bringing an added layer of nostalgia. Her character’s appearance will reference her time on the 1990s sitcom Blossom, with Abby fangirling over having the star of one of her favorite shows in her courtroom.
NBC is keeping details under wraps, but fans can expect clever in-jokes and nostalgic nods during this highly anticipated episode. If Bialik’s appearance is as well-received as Nayyar’s, inviting Big Bang Theory stars to Night Court might just become an annual tradition.
