For 12 hilarious and heartwarming seasons, The Big Bang Theory gave fans a lovable group of geniuses, their quirky friends, and endless pop culture references. But even in such a successful and long-running sitcom, some characters didn’t get the attention they truly deserved.
Whether they were scene-stealers, fan favorites, or just plain underused, a few standout characters left fans wanting way more. Let’s shine the spotlight on three Big Bang Theory characters who didn’t appear enough — but definitely should have.
1. Stuart Bloom — The Comic Book King Who Deserved a Crown
The Awkward Underdog of Pasadena
Stuart Bloom, played by Kevin Sussman, was introduced as the owner of the local comic book store — the ultimate hangout spot for the gang. From the moment he appeared, Stuart brought a different kind of humor: quiet, self-deprecating, and painfully relatable.
But while he was a constant presence in the background, Stuart never got the deep storylines or recognition his character truly earned.
Why Stuart Deserved More
Stuart was more than just comic relief. His struggles with loneliness, failed relationships, and financial instability made him one of the most human characters on the show.
While the main cast enjoyed career success, love, and friendship, Stuart often stood on the outside looking in — sometimes literally, as when he tagged along awkwardly or became a babysitter for Howard and Bernadette’s kids.
Still, Sussman infused the character with warmth and sincerity that made fans root for him. By the time Stuart finally found a girlfriend (Denise), viewers were thrilled — and wished the series had explored that relationship more deeply.
The Missed Opportunity
Imagine an episode where Stuart’s comic book shop faces closure, forcing the group to rally behind him. Or a deeper exploration of his mental health and quiet resilience.
Stuart was the everyman among geniuses — the imperfect, struggling soul in a show about brilliant minds. That dynamic could’ve been pure gold.
2. Leslie Winkle — The Smart, Sarcastic Scientist Who Vanished Too Soon
A Perfect Match for Sheldon (and a Better Rival)
Played by Sara Gilbert, Leslie Winkle was one of the earliest recurring characters on The Big Bang Theory, appearing back when the show was still finding its footing.
Leslie was brilliant, brutally sarcastic, and unafraid to take Sheldon down a peg or two — something few characters could do successfully. Her no-nonsense attitude made her the perfect foil to the guys’ awkwardness.
Why Fans Wanted More Leslie
In the early seasons, Leslie added balance to the group. She wasn’t intimidated by Sheldon’s intellect, didn’t fall for Leonard’s awkward charm, and matched Penny’s confidence in her own nerdy way.
Plus, her on-again, off-again fling with Leonard created some of the show’s funniest tension-filled moments. Yet, after a few seasons, Leslie just… disappeared.
The Wasted Potential
Leslie could’ve easily become a core part of the ensemble. Imagine her clashing with Amy and Bernadette in later seasons — or joining forces with them to call out the guys’ nerdy nonsense.
Her sharp wit and independence would’ve been a refreshing counterpoint to the softer personalities of the main women. Instead, she became a “what if” character — someone who could’ve elevated the show even further.
3. Emily Sweeney — The Mysterious Girlfriend Fans Wanted to Know Better
A Relationship That Ended Too Soon
Emily Sweeney, portrayed by Laura Spencer, entered the show as Raj’s love interest — a dermatologist with a dark sense of humor and a refreshingly different energy from his previous girlfriends.
Emily was complex, intelligent, and unapologetically weird — a perfect match for Raj, whose romantic storylines often felt repetitive or awkward.
Why Emily Deserved More Screen Time
Emily wasn’t just “Raj’s girlfriend.” She was one of the few partners who challenged him emotionally and intellectually. Her fascination with horror, her blunt honesty, and her willingness to embrace Raj’s quirks made her stand out.
But just as fans were warming up to her unique chemistry with Raj, she was written off — with little explanation and almost no closure.
What Could’ve Been
Emily could’ve evolved into a mainstay character, exploring her dynamic with the group or deepening her relationship with Raj. Maybe she could’ve been the one to finally help Raj grow up emotionally — or even introduced her own subplot, balancing her dark humor with heartfelt moments.
Instead, her exit left fans puzzled and disappointed, wondering why one of the most intriguing characters was sidelined.
Bonus Mentions: A Few Others Who Deserved the Spotlight
While Stuart, Leslie, and Emily top the list, a few other Big Bang Theory favorites could’ve used more screen time too:
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Bert Kibbler – The lovable geologist who often felt excluded from the main gang’s activities.
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Priya Koothrappali – Raj’s sister and Leonard’s former flame, who could’ve brought more long-term drama.
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Barry Kripke – Sheldon’s arrogant rival, who always made things fun (and chaotic).
Each of them brought something special — humor, tension, or heart — that added flavor to the show’s world.
Why Some Characters Get Sidelined
In any ensemble sitcom, it’s tough to give everyone the spotlight. With seven main characters taking center stage by the final seasons, side characters often got pushed aside.
But The Big Bang Theory’s supporting cast was so strong that even a few extra scenes could’ve made all the difference. These characters didn’t just fill time — they expanded the show’s universe and gave fans a break from the main group’s repetitive storylines.
What Made These Characters So Special
The beauty of The Big Bang Theory was its variety. It wasn’t just about Sheldon’s quirks or Leonard and Penny’s love story — it was about a world full of unique personalities.
Characters like Stuart, Leslie, and Emily brought new energy whenever they appeared. They reminded us that even in a show about geniuses, it’s the oddballs and outsiders who make life interesting.
Could They Return Someday?
With rumors of new Big Bang Theory spinoffs swirling, fans haven’t given up hope. Maybe Stuart will get his own comic shop-centered sitcom. Maybe Leslie or Emily could pop up in Young Sheldon’s universe (or whatever comes next).
If TV history has taught us anything, it’s that beloved characters rarely stay gone forever.
The Legacy of the Forgotten Few
Even though they didn’t appear enough, these three characters left lasting impressions. Stuart’s quiet charm, Leslie’s razor-sharp wit, and Emily’s mysterious coolness all added depth to the series.
They proved that sometimes, the most unforgettable characters are the ones who appear just long enough to leave us wanting more.
Conclusion: The Ones Who Got Away
The Big Bang Theory will always be remembered for its brilliant writing, hilarious science jokes, and lovable main cast. But part of what made it so rich were the side characters who popped in and out — the ones who made you smile every time they showed up.
Stuart, Leslie, and Emily might not have been regulars, but they made every appearance count. And that’s what makes them truly unforgettable.
