Understanding the Ending of The Big Bang Theory: A Case for Improvement

The Big Bang Theory, one of the most beloved sitcoms of the 21st century, came to a definitive conclusion after 12 seasons and two movies. However, not everyone was satisfied with the way the show wrapped up, particularly regarding the character of Sheldon Cooper. This article analyzes the reasons behind the dissatisfaction with the series finale, focusing on Sheldon's character development and the overall plot of the last seasons.

The Discrepancy Between Character Arcs and Outcomes

Some critics argue that the final season and finale of The Big Bang Theory were subpar, affecting the overall quality of the show. The eleventh and twelfth seasons, in particular, are regarded as a disappointment. The plots became convoluted and the characters' arcs felt unresolved. For many fans, the finale failed to live up to the expectations set by the show's earlier seasons.

The Disappointing Finale

The Big Bang Theory was known for its witty humor, scientific puns, and deep friendship dynamics. Season 10 marked a pivot toward more dramatic and emotional storylines, which many fans appreciated. However, the 11th and 12th seasons contained more filler-like episodes. Some notable characters, such as Howard Wolowitz, were given extended storylines that seemed to drag on without resolution. Sheldon's character development took a significant shift in the finale, where he drastically changed his demeanor and became more humble, almost overnight. This abrupt transformation was criticized for being unrealistic based on the show's portrayal of him throughout the series.

Sheldon's Character Overhaul

Sheldon Cooper, once the quintessential arrogant and entitled character, found himself in an unexpected situation when he accepted a Nobel prize. In the finale, he made a heartfelt speech acknowledging the contributions of his friends, a stark contrast to his earlier episodes where he displayed an arrogant and condescending attitude. This complete 180-degree turn in his personality was a contentious point for many fans, who found it hard to believe that such a change could happen so suddenly.

The Critique of Character Consistency

Sheldon's character was known for his arrogance and entitlement. At 40 years old, a momentary conversation with his wife would not logically alter his deeply ingrained personality traits. The sudden and extreme change in Sheldon's behavior, especially given his age and the character's long-standing portrayal, was seen as an unsatisfactory resolution. Many critics and fans argued that the show should have allowed for a more gradual and nuanced shift in Sheldon's character, possibly spanning a few episodes, rather than this abrupt and unrealistic change.

Retrospective and Reflection

Reflecting back, it would have been more satisfying for the series to conclude on a positive note in a future season, particularly after season 10. The 11th season could have been the ending, or even a transition to a new universe or side story for Sheldon and his friends. This approach would have allowed the audience to see if Sheldon's new character was a lasting change, or merely a temporary reprieve, leaving the door open for further development.

Conclusion

The Big Bang Theory, while a highly successful and beloved series, faced its share of disappointments, especially in its final few seasons. The character development of Sheldon Cooper, particularly in the finale, was criticized for being unrealistic and hampered by the writers' attempts to draw a definitive conclusion. While many fans found the finale satisfactory, the abrupt and unrealistic changes in Sheldon's character left a lasting impact. Future series could learn from this to ensure a more consistent and believable character arc for their main protagonists.