Key Takeaways:
– “The Big Bang Theory” actor, Mayim Bialik, received less pay than her male co-stars.
– Bob Newhart, who played Professor Proton on the show, made a significant contribution before his recent demise.
– The original five cast members of the show received a substantial raise for the final season.
The world of sitcoms has been graced by numerous classics, among which “The Big Bang Theory” stands supreme. Alongside industry behemoths like “FRIENDS” and “How I Met Your Mother”, “The Big Bang Theory”, headlined by Jim Parsons, continues to charm new and old viewers alike. Parsons shared the limelight with Johnny Galecki and Kaley Cuoco from the outset, forming the crux of the show.
The Ensemble Cast's Pay Disparity
Early seasons of the show saw the rise of supporting actors Kunal Nayyar, Simon Helberg, Melissa Rauch, and Mayim Bialik. However, despite growing popularity, a significant pay gap persisted, particularly affecting Bialik in comparison to the male supporting actors.
Bialik joined the ensemble in the closing of the show's third season. By this time, Parsons, Galecki, Cuoco, Nayyar, and Helberg had become household names, each commanding hefty paychecks. For instance, each of the first three was earning a whopping $1 million per episode while Nayyar and Helberg were making $765,000 apiece.
However, Bialik, who only appeared in the final episode of season 3, received a paycheck of just $378,602. She did see a pay raise in subsequent seasons, bumping her earnings to half a million for season 4 and eventually $5 million for season 5. Interestingly, this was still lesser than Nayyar and Helberg who were each raking in $6 million for the same season.
In the final season, the original five cast members made a colossal $1 million per episode. They even forfeited $100,000 per episode to increase Bialik and Rauch's earnings. Nevertheless, Bialik still reportedly earned less per episode – around $425,000 in contrast to Nayyar and Helberg's million-dollar mark.
Remembering Bob Newhart's Impact
On a different note, the show's universe was greatly enriched by legendary actor Bob Newhart who played Arthur Jeffries, also known as Professor Proton. Newhart recently passed away, prompting a heartfelt tribute from the show's co-creator, Chuck Lorre.
Lorre reminisced about Newhart's contributions to the show, acknowledging how he had always dreamt of having him on board. Finally, under the condition that his character would have an arc spanning several episodes and that he would win an Emmy, Newhart accepted the role.
Newhart's wishes were fulfilled as he bagged the Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his portrayal of Professor Proton. His contribution to the series, along with his distinguished track record in film, will live on in memory, imprinting him as a comedy legend.
In sum, “The Big Bang Theory” was an amalgamation of talented artists and unforgettable performances. While the pay disparity issue cast a shadow on the show's legacy, the contribution of someone like Newhart certainly brought a touch of grace and nostalgia to the beloved sitcom. Watch “The Big Bang Theory” for yourself on Max, and relive the laughter and charm that captivated millions.
