Before Kunal Nayyar was cast in The Big Bang Theory, the creators looked at what real science departments looked like – and it changed everything.
Even after six years of its conclusion, The Big Bang Theory still remains one of television’s most successful sitcoms. Famous for its quirky scientists, geek culture references, and a cast that quickly captivated millions, the show is still loved by many. But beyond all the laughter and science jokes, the sitcom has also made subtle strides in representing the real world of science.
That’s right – in an interview, the co-creator revealed the real reason why actor Kunal Nayyar was cast in Big Bang. Let’s dive deeper to know how Nayyar’s Raj Koothrappali brought more authenticity to the show.
Kunal Nayyar was cast to reflect real diversity in science, says TBBT creator
When The Big Bang Theory was in its early stages of development, the creators wanted the sitcom to reflect the real world, especially the world of science. While they hired real-life experts to ensure that no scientific inaccuracies made it into the show, they did the same with the casting as well.
That’s right – co-creator Bill Prady shared in an interview how and why they decided to cast Kunal Nayyar as Rajesh Koothrappali. Moreover, it wasn’t just a creative choice, but one rooted in truth. Prady shared that when a person walks into a science department at any major university, it’s rarely made up of just American-born scientists.
It’s one of the most diverse fields, with researchers and professors from all over the world. So, when it came to building Big Bang Theory’s cast, the creators knew they needed someone who represented that global presence. That’s how the character of Raj was born. Prady added via The Things:
When we were casting for that part, we were casting for an international member of the ensemble, [because] if you go into the science department at a university, it’s not [just] Americans.
While auditioning actors for the role, the casting team met several people from different backgrounds, such as Korean, Latino, and many others. Then came Nayyar, who at the time was just one of many names on a packed audition list. But when he stepped into the audition room, something clicked.
Prady described him as “charming” and said that the team instantly felt he was the right fit for the role. Much like how Jim Parsons stood out as Sheldon, Nayyar brought something new and fresh to the table. So, that’s how Raj Koothrappali became one of the show’s most beloved characters.
Bill Prady shares the thought process behind The Big Bang Theory’s casting choices
When it came to choosing the main cast of The Big Bang Theory, co-creator Bill Prady wanted more than just talent. Each character had to feel real, especially since the show was set in the world of science. So, they gave special emphasis to the casting process, with Jim Parsons being the most surprising talent of the lot, as per Mental Floss.
That’s right – he wasn’t a big name when he auditioned, but as soon as the team saw his acting chops, they knew he’d be perfect for the role of Sheldon Cooper. Johnny Galecki was cast as Leonard, who was more grounded and relatable, and he also brought a warmth that balanced Sheldon’s rigid personality.
For the role of Penny, actress Kaley Cuoco wasn’t the original choice – in fact, in the first pilot, a different actress played a similar role. But something didn’t click, and when Cuoco came in later, her energy and humor felt natural. Then came Nayyar, as the creators wanted the cast to reflect how international science really is.
Simon Helberg as Howard completed the group, and his comedic timing as well as his equation with Raj was something that fans absolutely loved. Later, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch also joined in as Amy and Bernadette, who just naturally fit into the gang. And it’s because of this authenticity; the show is still cherished by millions.
