Alright, so I admit, this title might be a little misleading. I’m not here to talk about Jerry Seinfeld creating a big bang, as you are probably thinking by reading the title in it’s most literal form. However, if you are under the assumption that I’m be comparing Seinfeld to The Big Bang Theory, then you are on to something.
I became an avid Seinfeld fan well after the show had ended. I probably started watching it sometime in 2005, and I now own autographed memorabilia, two full sets of the shows DVD’s (one collectors, one for watching), a trivia game, and so much more. I’ve become a Seinfeld nut, to the point where I can relate almost everything in life to this show. So yeah, I’m well versed in all things Seinfeld.
Recently I’ve gotten into The Big Bang Theory, and so far, I’m quite impressed. It takes a nerdy group of guys and a slutty girl, and turns in a uniquely funny show week after week. As unique as the premise is, I see a lot of Seinfeld in The Big Bang Theory.
Seinfeld was pitched as a “show about nothing” in which we witnessed four friends daily life activities week after week. What was funny was the irony of things that happen in real life being pointed out and magnified with humorous acting. Often these were things you would never think about. For instance, people constantly switching lanes in traffic, as if one lane is moving faster than the other.
The Big Bang Theory is a lot of the same, just in a different atmosphere. Seinfeld was based in NYC in Jerry’s apartment, BBT is based in LA in Leonard and Sheldon’s apartment. Seinfeld’s neighbor, Kramer, is a main character who spends most of his time in Jerry’s apartment. Sheldon and Leonard’s neighbor, Penny, is also a main character who spends a lot of time in their apartment.
A slight difference here is that Penny is the attractive one whom Leonard takes interest in, and eventually dates… creating an awkward scene once they break up. Jerry dates Elaine, also a main character, but she doesn’t live across the hall. Guess what? They also experience awkward scenes on several occasions throughout the show.
As previously mentioned, Seinfeld often show cased every day life as the humor behind the show. The Big Bang Theory does the same, with a slight twist… the nerd factor. Even so, there’s still a slight similarity here. George often created unique and awkward situations for himself and others throughout the show. Sheldon often creates unique and awkward situations for the other characters in the show, but never really himself. Similar characters, but not exactly the same.
It’s pretty scary how similar the shows are, but equally as awesome. As a huge Seinfeld fan, I’ve easily taken a liking towards The Big Bang Theory as well. If you were a Seinfeld fan, I’d recommend giving it a shot. It’s really quite hilarious, and well worth plopping in front of the three hour marathons on TBS each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
If you’re new to the show, let me know what you think. If you’re a Big Bang Theory veteran, what’s your favorite moment(s)?
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