Inside The Big Bang Theory, with Simon Helberg and Bill Prady

About This Episode

It’s the theory that describes the creation of the universe and also TV’s most popular show.. On this episode of StarTalk Radio, Neil deGrasse Tyson sits down with Simon Helberg, who plays Howard Wolowitz on The Big Bang Theory, and Bill Prady, co-creator of The Big Bang Theory, to get the inside scoop behind the creation of the hit sitcom. In-studio, Neil is joined by comic co-host Chuck Nice and astrophysicist Charles Liu to investigate the show’s popularity and simultaneously dive into the creation of the universe.

You’ll learn about Bill and co-creator Chuck Lorre’s early conversations about creating a show centered around scientists. Simon takes us behind-the-scenes during the filming of the pilot episode and how the audience reaction signified to him that this show was going to be a hit. Discover how the show’s more scientific features – equations, science-heavy dialogue, etc. –  are created so as not to disappoint real scientists and their work. Explore why The Big Bang Theory has been so popular amongst fans. You’ll learn how the show has tapped into the demographic of closeted geeks and scientists. Learn more about Leonard Hofstadter, a main character on The Big Bang Theory, and how part of his character was based on Bill’s personal experiences.

Then, we turn towards the Big Bang itself. Astrophysicist and StarTalk All-Stars host Janna Levin joins Neil, Chuck, and Charles to answer fan-submitted Cosmic Queries. You’ll hear what color the Big Bang might have been. You’ll also learn about the James Webb Space Telescope and what new aspects of the universe it will help bring into the light. Ponder what was happening moments before the Big Bang. Investigate antimatter and the mysteries that surround it. We dive into String theory and the possibility of other dimensions. All that, plus, Neil shares his thoughts on the role of scientists on TV, in movies, and in real life. 

NOTE: All-Access subscribers can listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: Inside The Big Bang Theory, with Simon Helberg and Bill Prady.