Thursday, July 11, 2024

The Creation of the Biggest Sitcom in the Whole Universe: Books I Read in 2024, Vol. XVI

 

THE BIG BANG THEORY: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series
Jessica Radloff

When The Big Bang Theory ended in 2019 after twelve seasons, it wasn't just the end of television's longest-running live-action multi-camera sitcom; it was the last great comedy with massive ratings and broad appeal. Yet, for all that's been written about the show, the most riveting and surprising stories have never been revealed. . . . [The author] was granted unprecedented access, conducting over 120 hours of new interviews. From on-set secrets and stories behind the most beloved episodes to never-before-seen photos, the oral history will intrigue everyone from the casual viewer to the most diehard fan. And yes, you'll get an answer about Penny's last name (if you think you know, you don't).

There are some who consider The Big Bang Theory a practically-perfect television sitcom. To the degree you agree, this book is a practically-perfect companion; full of behind-the-scenes stories and nostalgic anecdotes that emphasize the unique, close-knit, caring nature of the relationships of the cast members, writers, producers...even prop masters. The book reads like a transcription of a long-form documentary with short bits of narration that set up a string of quotes from the extensive interviews Radloff conducted. It really is the participants telling their own stories in their own words (a few of which are PG-13 and R-rated [Fair Warning]). Just my cup of tea...or whatever your hot beverage of choice is.

One weird thing, though...in the transcriptions of the interviews, all the cast and crew members said "all of the sudden" instead of "all of a sudden." Does anyone really say that?

First Line: Two years.

Page 56 / Line 5: He became a great, wonderful voice of the ensemble.

A Good Line from Somewhere in the Middle: But Big Bang spoke to a deeper issue, which is, on the simplest level, loneliness and feeling left out.

Last [Two] Line[s]: I always wanted to do something, to be a part of something that had the ability to withstand time. And The Big Bang Theory does.


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