Kunal Nayyar says his time on The Big Bang Theory didn’t just bring fame—it also gave him the ability to quietly help people facing difficult situations.
The actor, who portrayed Raj Koothrappali for the sitcom’s entire 12-season run, revealed that he doesn’t see wealth as a burden. Instead, he views it as a chance to make a difference.
Nayyar told The i Paper that he and his wife often contribute to scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds and support animal charities, particularly those helping dogs.
One of his favorite acts of generosity happens privately. The actor said he enjoys browsing GoFundMe campaigns late at night and paying off medical bills for families he has never met. He jokingly described the habit as his “masked vigilante” activity.
At the height of the show’s popularity, The Big Bang Theory stars reportedly earned about $1 million per episode. Nayyar later appeared on Forbes’ list of the highest-paid television actors and most recently starred in the 2025 film Christmas Karma.