The Big Bang Theory: the not-so-geeky series!

Sheldon, Leonard, Howard and Raj: who could have predicted that this atypical and endearing band of geeks would work wonders on Warner, with seasons that would rock the ratings right from the start? The Big Bang Theory, a world-famous American sitcom that ran for 12 seasons, introduced highly intellectual characters who were capable of mesmerising crowds even in hilarious comedy scenes and episodes. Between quantum physics, superheroes, mathematics, science and... love stories, not forgetting the many nods to pop culture codes and the emblematic group photos, there's no denying that this series offered us an explosive visual bang!

The synopsis

Broadly speaking, The Big Bang Theory is an American sitcom, performed by a talented cast, which follows the lives of two best friends and scientists, Sheldon and Leonard. Accompanied by Howard and Raj, their comic duo are a perfect match. Their daily lives as brilliant but socially "incompetent" men are turned upside down when they meet Penny, an attractive new friend and neighbour who moves in on the same floor, in the flat opposite. And so begins an evolution: the two worlds, one focused on science and the other a little more exuberant, collide and combine to modify and develop these characters in a constructive and positive way over the course of the episodes.

Unusual character, ingredient for success

Sheldon Cooper, played by the brilliant Jim Parsons, is one of the key ingredients in the recipe for "The Big Bang Theory", a series that has been broadcast on Warner for several seasons. Without his disappointing humour, his absolutely incessant neuroses, his innocence of rare purity, his sometimes high-pitched voice and his lack of humility, the series would certainly not have had the same taste... This disconcerting character, brilliant in the field of science and completely out of touch with life in society, bursts onto the screen and irritates as much as he seduces. In fact, his dynamic with Penny, Leonard and the others has greatly contributed to the sitcom's success. The episodes in which he tries to change his social behaviour are particularly memorable. The series would probably have continued its incredible rise if the actor himself, who has brilliantly played Sheldon over the seasons, hadn't said stop. The CBS network would have committed itself without any hesitation to the continuation of this adventure, which is a little out of the ordinary, it has to be said.

Little secrets about filming

• Did you know that two pilots were filmed to kick off the series "The Big Bang Theory"? Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, the two creators of this iconic series, were so sure of their initial idea that they decided not to reveal the pitch to CBS, as is customary, but to write a complete script, call on actors and shoot the first episode themselves in 2006. This first draft was not unanimously approved by CBS, but the production was nonetheless convinced by the concept. A second attempt... and the rest is history.
• Imitation is flattering... Confirmation from Belarus, which knew from the outset that the series would be a hit with viewers! Indeed, this Eastern European country didn't hesitate for a second to copy 'The Big Bang Theory'. The main characters are Sheldon, Leo, Hovard, Raj and Natasha (a nod to Penny?). Once the news of the plagiarism spread, the duplicated version was quickly cancelled.
• In 'The Big Bang Theory', actor Wil Wheaton, best known for his role in 'Star Trek', plays Sheldon Cooper's sworn enemy. As you'll see, the trend will be reversed in later seasons... But no spoilers here, let's get back to this protagonist of the story who caught the attention of Steven Molaro, one of the producers of the series 'The Big Bang Theory', with a Tweet in which he confessed to "being a fan of this new sitcom". That's all it took for the producer to add it to the show. And since our four nerds are absolute fans of 'Star Trek' and science fiction, the marriage seemed a foregone conclusion.

From the set to your living room

When the first episode of the first season of "The Big Bang Theory" was broadcast, no less than 10 million viewers (on average) flocked to their Warner screens! This comedy series has something for everyone, whether you're a geeky fan of the big bang, a science buff or a fan of comedy series. The performances of the main characters, backed up by equally fascinating secondary characters, give the series its unique charm. With its cutting-edge scientific debates, impassioned conversations about superheroes and physics, romantic intrigues between Sheldon, Leonard, Penny and the others, not to mention great doses of comic humour, there's something for everyone to enjoy and look forward to in the next episode. And to make sure you get the most out of the show, our geek shop has a whole range of merchandise ready to be added to your living room, wardrobe or games room!