TV

The Big Bang Theory Basically Threw Leonard’s Growth Out the Window 

The Big Bang Theory Basically Threw Leonard’s Growth Out the Window 
Image credit: CBS

Character development who?

Summary:

  • The Big Bang Theory was a CBS sitcom that premiered in 2007 and ran for 12 seasons until its finale in 2019.
  • The show followed the lives of four nerdy scientist friends and their new neighbor and aspiring actress, Penny.
  • Of all the characters, Leonard was the one who showed the least character development in 12 seasons.

When The Big Bang Theory began, none of the main characters were in the same place they were when it ended. Throughout the 12 seasons of the CBS sitcom, they have all grown, experienced heartbreak, gone through various challenges, faced their greatest fears in family, friendships and careers, only to come out the other side a better person.

While the change in some characters, like Howard, Raj or Sheldon's wife Amy, was very obvious, the change in others wasn't as impressive. The way Penny finally gave up all her career ambitions and changed her position on having children still rubs many people the wrong way. But the worst of all is Leonard.

The longer you watch the show, the more disappointed you may become in his character. But it's hardly that he's getting worse. Rather, it's that he hasn't changed at all, while everyone else around him has clearly moved on with their lives.

Who Is The Worst The Big Bang Theory Character?

The Big Bang Theory Basically Threw Leonard’s Growth Out the Window - image 1

It is generally agreed that the worst person of all the regular characters on the show was Sheldon. Annoying and inconsiderate of others, he established himself as the worst friend of all and an even worse roommate to Leonard. However, as the years went by, he also managed to change.

The changes were much more subtle than the ones Raj or Howard went through, but it was obvious that Sheldon changed his world view enough to have a relationship and even start a family. Still as selfish and needy as ever, he made some progress that will surely lead to an even better life in the future.

The Big Bang Theory Basically Threw Leonard’s Growth Out the Window - image 2

Raj managed to fight his mutism and get over his fear of women by getting involved with several ladies throughout the show. Although his quest for love didn't end in a relationship, his growth is undeniable. The same goes for Howard, who managed to become a real husband and even went into space as an astronaut.

Leonard, on the other hand, just got stuck as the same old version of himself that the audience met in season 1. Slightly dorky, but not nearly as flawed as the other guys, he gave the impression that he didn't have to change to be loved. And as much as we as humans agree with that message, it was just a boring arc for viewers.

The character who started out as the most likable didn't have any victories to celebrate or anything to root for. If anything, the longer The Big Bang Theory went on, the more disenchanted people became with Leonard. Even his relationship with Penny ended up being very toxic, which was the final nail in his coffin.

If you are feeling nostalgic and want to rewatch The Big Bang Theory from the very beginning, you can go ahead and stream the show on Max.