One of the most amusing guest stars in the sitcom deserved to be explored more in Chuck Lorre’s The Big Bang Theory.
Guest stars have always been integral to sitcoms, and while some tend to outstay their welcome, the opposite was the case with one of the most underrated guest stars on Chuck Lorre’s The Big Bang Theory. Among the many high-profile cameos in the sitcom, Stephen Merchant’s Dave Gibbs fit pretty well with the series’ tone.
Unfortunately, the sitcom moved on too early from his character, which is a shame, as his dynamic with Amy and Sheldon was impeccable, to say the least, and Merchant’s acting chops were the cherry on top.
Dave deserved better in The Big Bang Theory
The Big Bang Theory wasn’t his first rodeo in the realm of sitcoms, as the actor aced his part in the British version of The Office, starring Ricky Gervais. Despite being a rival to Sheldon on paper, he was obsessed with Dr Cooper in a quite wholesome fashion and even contributed to his eventual reconciliation with Amy.
Although Dave’s traits were similar to that of Sheldon, a geeky, chaotic goofball whose heart was in the right place, he was mature enough to walk away from Amy’s life with a lovely smile after finding the duo in the former’s apartment.
Even though his tenure in the sitcom was short, Merchant, who debuted as one of Amy’s dates in the aftermath of her breakup, excelled in his brief appearances. It’s a shame he wasn’t utilized more, as his dynamic with Sheldon held some huge potential, which further adds to the long list of wasted potential in Chuck Lorre‘s TBBT.
Stephen Merchant’s height stunned Mayim Bialik
Not only were viewers enticed by Dave’s demeanor, but Mayim Bialik, who dated the actor onscreen before returning to her true match, Sheldon, had nothing but nice things to say of Stephen Merchant. Interestingly, she was unaware of Merchant’s casting until the day before filming and was taken aback by the actor’s stature after meeting him in person.
She amusingly recalled (via Glamour):
He’s so tall. He’s 6’7, and he doesn’t even seem to stand up to his full height because he will knock in to everything. He’s very kind, and his sense of humor is so spot-on. He’s just so smart and it’s been really fun.
Had Dave continued his run in the series for a little longer, it’s safe to say he would’ve cemented himself as one of the most likable figures in the sitcom.
