Roush on The Big Bang Theory
Question: I'm sort of an amateur physics/astrophysics buff, and so many of the references in
The Big Bang Theory seem to ring true to pop science articles and books I read about string theory, quantum mechanics, etc. Which of the show's writers are the closet Ph.D.s? I can see where a consultant could be used to check accuracy, but not to dream up an endless stream of gags that are straight out of The Journal of Irreproducible Results (sponsors of the annual Ignoble Prizes).
— Dave
Matt Roush: For the answer, I turn it over to
Big Bang executive producer Bill Prady, who says: "Neither of the show's creators have degrees in science. In fact, both Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady are self-admitted college dropouts (Bill from Wayne State in Detroi,t and Chuck from SUNY Potsdam where he recalls his major to have been either poly sci or Jimi Hendrix). They, along with fellow executive producer Lee Aronsohn, are, however, big geeky science fans. They base Leonard and Sheldon's interests on current trends in physics and suggestions from the show's science consultant, UCLA professor of astrophysics David Saltzberg, Ph.D. Saltzberg is also responsible for the accuracy of the information on the characters' white boards. During the filming of a recent episode, Saltzberg turned the tables on the veteran comedy writing staff by successfully 'pitching' a joke for Sheldon. In response, Lorre, Prady and Aronsohn are going to use the upcoming production hiatus to solve the problem of cold fusion."
Now do you see why I love this show?
