Comic-Con 2010:Big Bang Theory Panel and Press Room – Not So Nerdy After All

The panel for The Big Bang Theory lived up to its name, beginning with the presentation of Wil Wheaton as moderator and followed by a surprise appearance by the Barenaked Ladies. They performed the entire theme song live as part of a sing-a-long with the delighted audience.

The party didn’t stop there, however, as the cast took their seats and began fielding questions from Wheaton, who plays Sheldon’s (Jim Parsons) arch nemesis on the show. The first, shocking revelation to hit the audience is that none of the cast members actually like the same things as their characters. They weren’t fans of comic books or superheroes growing up. Wil accused Kaley Cuoco (Penny) of being the nerdiest of everyone because when he first met her she was really, really into the Harry Potter books.

Chuck Lorre, along with the other writers and producers, talked a little bit about where the show has come from but revealed little about where it is headed. Leonard will remain the soul of the show while there are no plans to make massive changes to Sheldon’s character. The theme of the panel turned out to be praising the writers; every actor deflected compliments to their character and attributed it to the writers. Do they ad lib? No, they don’t have to because the writing is so great. How easy or hard is working on the show? How could it be hard when your script is written so flawlessly.

I have to say, the panel warmed my little writer heart. So rarely are writers given the credit they deserve when a television show or movie really takes off. Everyone wants to talk to the actors and believe me, they certainly pull their weight on this show. Jim Parsons (Sheldon) said it though…The Big Bang Theory writers deserve an Emmy. It’s funny as all get out.

It absolutely thrilled me to get to take part in the press room for this show because I’m such a huge fan. Since The New Adventures of Old Christine has been so wrongfully canceled, Big Bang Theory is hands down the best sitcom on television in my opinion. The first two sets of interviews were with the writers and producers of the show, Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady, Lee Aronsohn, and Steve Molaro.

Lee Aronsohn states he loves the direction the show is taking, and “at the beginning it was kind of like the big bang itself, formless…the last two years have been the universe taking shape and it’s been a beautiful thing to watch.” As far as Leonard’s (Johnny Galecki) character, he thinks “…his relationship with Penny has, for the time being, ended and Sheldon is starting a relationship of sorts and Leonard is stuck between the two.”

And as for that “relationship” of Sheldon’s? Will it last? Can it last? Here’s the answer from the writers. “…It’s not a relationship in the way you and I think of relationships but the character will reappear and Sheldon will have a connection to her. But Sheldon will still very much remain Sheldon.”

One of my favorite parts of the show is the four main male characters and how they are all different even as they are the same. Lee and Steve had this to say: “I never wanted these guys to walk in like, nerd lockstep. I mean, fine, they all like comic books but why do they have to like the same comic books? They’re different people, it’s a big nerd world. I like if Sheldon is a big DC guy, lets make Koothrappoli a Marvel guy and let’s let them argue it.”

Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady spilled a couple of secrets about the upcoming season: we will be seeing more of the character’s lives before they met one another, i.e.: more guest appearances from their family members. If it means more episodes like the one with Christine Baranski, bring it on. Also, Penny is going to have issues with Sheldon’s new girlfriend, which is not unexpected. When Kaley Cuoco (Penny) heard this, she agreed wholeheartedly that her character has a soft spot for not only Sheldon, but all the guys. “She would lay down across tracks for these guys. I mean, I wouldn’t, but Penny would.”

Also guys, she’s looking for someone who is “funnier than her.”

Kunal Nayyar had this to say: “I get to play a character unlike any other character on television right now, so that’s great.” It’s true, and though Kunal, who plays Raj, deflected all of our compliments, he clearly loves the character. Will Raj ever be able to talk around Penny? “Penny, maybe. Maybe if he tricks himself into thinking she’s one of the guys but I doubt it.” Also, he misses doing theatre, but the live audience on Big Bang Theory helps.

Simon Helberg (Wolowitz) has some serious concerns about “lasting circulation issues caused by the incredibly tight pants they keep him in.” He’d like to see more that challenges Howard and shows his humanity, since as a character he’s always performing. I agree.

Jim Parsons (Sheldon) sat down for a quick couple of minutes and when asked what he’s most looking forward to he also stated exploring the new relationship.  He’s “very surprised they’re going there…they never disappoint me when it comes to Sheldon.”

Bottom line is, if you’re not watching this show, you should be. It’s hilarious, the writing is solid, the cast – especially the Emmy nominated Jim Parsons – are spot on and priceless. Not to mention super nice, accommodating folks.

The new season premieres Thursday, September 23 on CBS.

Images copyright Trisha Ziegenhorn and Poptimal.com

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