At this point in the series, The Big Bang Theory has assembled quite the wacky little gang full of overlapping friendships and underlying rivalries. When we first saw this show four years ago, it was about four nerds befriending their cute wannabe actress actually waitress neighbor and how different their perspectives really were. Despite a couple of breakups with Leonard, Penny became a full-fledged member of the gang, and the show has kept things fresh by introducing new characters. Amy and Bernadette have done wonders for The Big Bang Theory and in last night’s gossip-ridden episode I could even see the value of Priya. You know, for now.
I loved watching these new relationships in play as gossip took over the nerds’ circle of friends. In particular, it was hilarious to watch Sheldon try and understand all the gossip. Naturally, he reacted in the most clinical way possible by performing an experiment with Amy. But their experiment was trivial compared to what was really going on.
The subject of all the rumors? Howard and Bernadette. First everyone heard that Bernadette was about to dump Howard. The next piece of news was no surprise to viewers – that Raj has a major crush on Bernadette. And then the last piece of news was most important – that Howard was about to propose to Bernadette.
The proposal was painful. It was public, which is never a good idea. It began with “I know we have our problems”, which is never a good sign. But despite all that, Bernadette said yes. Personally, I’m hoping this lasts, and hopefully Howard now realizes what he did wrong when they tried living together. I like shows that aren’t afraid to evolve and Howard as one half of an engaged couple would definitely be a departure from the weird, creepy wannabe ladies man we got to know in the first season. But I have a good feeling about this development, since Bernadette has been a great addition to the show. Our little gang of misfits is growing up!
I really liked the use of gossip to show how interconnected the gang has really become. Sure, Bernadette is Howard’s fiancee and Amy was originally Sheldon’s friend. But they’re both BFFs with Penny. It’s a great way to keep Penny in the group even though Priya has come between her and Leonard. You no longer wonder why Penny hangs out with these guys, and in a lot of ways I think the show is really hitting its stride here.
Amy and Sheldon’s little gossip meme experiment was a good way to lighten up what could have been a really mushy episode, too. The only thing better than everyone’s shock over hearing that the two had engaged in “coitus” was Leonard’s utter disbelief upon hearing that Amy was knocked up.
What did you think of “The Herb Garden Germination”? Are you excited or put off by the idea of one of our geeks tying the knot? Now, check out some of my favorite quotes and moments and share yours!
- Amy’s scientific justification of gossip. (A great example of how her character differs from Sheldon.)
- “I think prolonged exposure to Penny has turned her into a bit of a Gabby Gertie.” – Sheldon
- “It’s complicated, but as I remember it the essentials are get chosen last, get hit by the ball, cry, go home.” – Leonard, on how baseball works
- “I was thinking we should bring Bernadette and Howard. She’s really interesting, and I bet I can get used to him.” – Priya
- “Oh Bernadette, please play my clarinet.” – Raj’s poem
- “And for years, everyone in my family was convinced that he was the clarinet enthusiast.” – Priya
- “Sheldon and I engaged in sexual intercourse, in other news I’m thinking of starting an herb garden, mum’s the word, gotta go!” – Amy
- Amy: “The meme has reached full penetration.”
Sheldon: “Pun intended?”
Amy: “No, happy accident.” - “I described your lovemaking as aloof but effective.” – Amy
