Throughout its long run, The Big Bang Theory enjoyed considerable success and introduced a host of iconic characters such as Sheldon Cooper and Leonard Hofstadter. However, despite the immense love these characters received, there were moments when viewers expressed dissatisfaction, particularly when they felt the show crossed certain boundaries.
One such instance occurred in Episode 15 of Season 8, where Sheldon and Amy’s antics reached a new extreme, as the duo experimented on their friends Penny and Leonard. The episode has received wide criticism from the fans for transforming the beloved characters into something akin to psychopaths, all in the name of humor.
The Big Bang Theory Episode Showcasing Amy and Sheldon’s Disrespectful Behavior
Fans have varied opinions when it comes to the worst episode of The Big Bang Theory. Among all, Episode 15 of Season 8, The Comic Book Store Regeneration frequently appears on their lists.
The events of the episode revolve around the reopening of Stuart’s comic book store. Meanwhile, Sheldon reveals how he and Amy came to terms with experimenting on Penny.
He revealed that they wanted to compare Penny’s intelligence to that of the chimpanzees in Amy’s lab. Upon realizing that Amy was actually using her as a test subject for her experiment, Penny confronts her friend.
However, instead of offering a genuine apology or addressing the situation, Amy offers Penny $5 as compensation, the same amount she paid to undergraduate participants in her study. Penny, however, is infuriated by it and tells Amy that she values her dignity over being used in an experiment.
While the episode received good ratings and reviews, fans have expressed issues regarding the actions of Mayim Bialik and Jim Parsons‘ characters, arguing that both characters display inconsiderate and disrespectful behavior toward their friends.
Fans Criticize Amy and Sheldon’s Confrontational Behavior
In a Reddit discussion about the worst episode of The Big Bang Theory, fans have expressed strong dissatisfaction with Amy Farrah Fowler and Sheldon Cooper’s behavior in The Comic Book Store Regeneration.
One Reddit user criticized Mayim Bialik’s character, Amy Farrah Fowler, noting that many of their least favorite episodes involve her, including the one where she conducts experiments on Penny. They said,
Her and Sheldon, two individuals who have felt bullied their whole life when it comes to social norms, are so condescending and terrible to their friends when it comes to intelligence.
They also criticized Amy for her dismissive response to Penny’s confrontation. Others also added to the arguments, stating, “Had it happen to me. Not funny. So embarrassing.”
The duo’s behavior has long been a point of contention among fans. While some find the characters to be self-centered, others see them as unaware of how their actions affect those around them.
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“I don’t think neither Amy or Sheldon consider experimenting as something wrong,” another user said in their defense, arguing that it’s not malicious intent, but rather a significant lack of awareness about the impact of their actions on others.
However, despite their divisive impact on the audience, the characters and the show have undeniably left a lasting impression on viewers, who continued to be a topic of discussion even five years after the series concluded.
The Big Bang Theory is available to stream on Max.
