As one of the most popular series in this generation of television, The Big Bang Theory enjoys some of the highest ratings and viewer numbers of all of modern media. Now in its 11th season, the show continues to be a huge draw for fans and awards alike. So, what is it that makes this series so popular, and just how wide does its influence spread?
From Successful Beginnings
This series had a strong base from the get-go. As the brain-child of Chuck Lorre, a long-time and well-respected creator of other comedy shows such as Dharma & Greg and Two and a Half Men, the show was not an effort of amateurs. Years of experience in the industry allowed Lorre to not only determine who would work in terms of staff but for the key positions of the actors themselves. The main actors, Johnny Galecki and Kaley Cuoco already had extensive experience in the sitcom world, so this new show was always going to be well within their grasp.
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Wide Appeal
The basis of this show, and one of the elements which helps draw such an audience, is its deft weaving of nerdy tropes and classic sitcom scenarios into one cohesive whole. While some out there bemoan the fact that the show itself is not a strictly accurate view into the world of geekiness, at its base, it was never meant to be. It’s a sitcom, after all, one which aims to entertain by bringing the more understandable and digestible portions of geek culture into the spotlight.
Of course, we couldn’t praise the success of the show without praising the work of the actors themselves. While the breakout character of the show Sheldon, expertly played by eight-time Emmy winner Jim Parsons, is the most widely credited, it is the entire cast of characters, including later comers Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch, that help round out the group in such a way that allows so many viewers to relate to them, at least on some absurd level.
Spinning Off
As with any series which commands immense numbers and respect, The Big Bang Theory has generated an enormous amount of spinoffs and supporting media for those who want more of a good thing. There are toys of the characters, clothes and posters, mobile and casino slot games based on the property, and even a full-fledged spinoff named Young Sheldon, which follows the story of Sheldon as a child. Fans can see more on Big Bang spinoffs across the internet. At this rate, we have to wonder just how far this series can go not just on its own, but as a franchise.
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The Constant Expansion
With 10 Emmy wins under its belt and 49 nominations, there are few shows in the history of television which can compare to not just the success of The Big Bang Theory, but also its cultural impact. Just as the big bang continues to expand, so too does the reach of this show. Now renewed through at least 2019, we know we already have more to look forward to. The question is – how much bigger can this bang get?
