5 things about The Big Bang Theory that make it stand out from the crowd in the sitcom game

The Big Bang Theory re-invented the sitcom genre in many ways and broke free from the ideals set by its predecessors. Its unusual premise, with a set of socially unaware and awkward protagonists, worked in favor of the sitcom.

TBBT broke free from traditional sitcoms and molded a new-age comedy centered around education, science, sarcasm, and nerd culture. It celebrated geek culture unapologetically and even managed to make science interesting and inspiring.

Here are 5 things about The Big Bang Theory that make it stand out.

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5 things About The Big Bang Theory that sets it apart from other sitcoms

1) The Big Bang Theory naturally paced its characters

Character introductions were among the most interesting and differentiating factors between TBBT and other sitcoms. While most sitcoms start with their set of main characters right from the Pilot, this was not the case here.

TBBT started with four core friends: Sheldon, Leonard, Raj, and Howard. Penny later joined their group when she moved across the hall. However, Amy and Bernadette entered the sitcom (and their group) in Season 3, which gave them their unique introductions and they eventually found their footing within the group.

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2) The Big Bang Theory made nerd culture look cool

While most sitcoms thrived on their protagonists' coolness, the main characters of TBBT were a group of misfit nerds. Probably the most socially awkward, introverted and even creepy (Howard) set of individuals, who managed to make their unique place in the audience's heart.

The sitcom redefined coolness, where the characters were not socially suave or conventionally charming. Instead, they were nerds who talked about comic books, board games and cosplay events, while holed up in their apartment. The mundanity of their ordinary and the acceptance of their preferences made them a hit among the audience.

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3) The Big Bang Theory has a unique intro

Performed by Barenaked Ladies, the catchy intro to The Big Bang Theory is one of a kind and still is hailed as one of the best sitcom intros. While most sitcom intros are usually short and sweet and mostly a moving montage of the main characters, the TBBT intro differs.

A wacky song with unusual lyrics, paired with a visual summarization of the universe's formation. From the stars of the galaxy to the ancient pyramids, the intro aptly represents the show and how the universe was formed with a bang for its protagonist to explore it then.

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4) The Big Bang Theory has unusual but beautiful friendships

Another aspect of the sitcom that clearly gives it an edge is the unusual friendships between the characters. Who would have thought a socially unaware nerd like Sheldon would end up befriending a popular waitress-cum-actress Penny? But it became one of the most wholesome friendships on the show.

Since the sitcom had such contrasting characters, the dynamics created between them were equally fascinating. Amy's weird obsession with Penny and even Raj and Berndaette's equation, the show was filled with unusual but meaningful friendships that resonated with the audience.

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5) The pop culture references in The Big Bang Theory stand out

Lastly, a sitcom centered around nerd culture heavily included many pop culture references and even some legendary guest stars. From Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, to Harry Potter and Indiana Jones, TBBT used pop culture like no other sitcom.

The core four nerds are uncertified Star Trek and Star Wars aficionados, often dressing up as the characters and attending cosplay events. The sitcom also had legendary actors like William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy and Wil Wheaton as guest stars which was equally exciting.

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