The Big Bang Theory

The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series

By: Jessica Radloff

Narrated by: Jessica Radloff, Fleet Cooper, Abhay Ahluwalia, Anna Williford, Suehyla Young, Allan Robertson

Length: 17 hrs and 53 mins

Publisher's summary

The definitive, behind-the-scenes look at the most popular sitcom of the last decade, The Big Bang Theory, packed with all-new, exclusive interviews with the producers and entire cast.

The Big Bang Theory is a television phenomenon. To the casual viewer, it’s a seemingly effortless comedy, with relatable but deeply unique characters tackling real-life issues—a kind of visual comfort food for its millions of dedicated fans. But the behind-the-scenes journey of the show from a failed pilot to a global phenomenon is a riveting story that even the most die-hard fans don’t know in its entirety.

The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive Oral History is a riveting, entertaining look at the sitcom sensation, with the blessing and participation of co-creator Chuck Lorre and executive producer Steve Molaro, as well as Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Melissa Rauch, Mayim Bialik, and more. Glamour senior editor Jessica Radloff, who has written over 200 articles on the series (and even had a cameo in the finale!), gives listeners an all-access pass to its intrepid producing and writing team and beloved cast. It’s a story of on-and-off screen romance told in hilarious and emotional detail, of casting choices that nearly changed everything (which even some of the actors didn’t know until now), of cast members bravely powering through personal tragedies, and when it came time to announce the 12th season would be its last, the complicated reasons why it was more difficult than anyone ever led on. Above all else, The Big Bang Theory tackled issues no other sitcoms would touch, which underwent a brilliant metamorphosis during its 279 episodes that mirrored the changing attitudes of America itself. These are the stories shared here, with the intimacy and the reverence the show has earned.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2022 Jessica Radloff (P)2022 Grand Central Publishing

Critic reviews

"A fun look at the sitcom megahit. . . Entertaining in its own right, this book examines the how and why behind the success of a landmark series."—Kirkus Reviews

"I'm so excited for fans to finally see my behind-the-scenes Polaroids for the first time. These photos are very special and super personal, so knowing Jess was taking such care with them, as she did with this book, was very comforting to me."—Kaley Cuoco

"There is no one more enthusiastic, more knowledgeable, more competent, or more dialed into the pulse of TBBT than Jessica Radloff. Jessica cultivated deep and rich relationships with all of us on TBBT over many years so that she can bring you the most detailed, delightful, and authentic TBBT book there will ever be. Bravo, Jessica, for putting up with us for so many hours of discussion, reminiscence, laughter and tears; thank you for being a part of our show's impact with this thorough and exceedingly well-researched work of art!"—Mayim Bialik

Diehard Fans Beware

I love all things TBBT, so it’s off putting to not listen to the iconic voices of our beloved characters. It’s driving me crazy to listen to them try too hard to emulate the actors. It also gets confusing as to which person is speaking even though they tell you 🙈 because they sometimes sound the same.

It’s making it very, very challenging to get through the audiobook.

As for the the author? She is FABULOUS!

fabulous!

loved this and cannot wait to binge watch the show with all this wonderful background

Great book, but

I would have preferred it was written as a story versus a series of QAs on each topic. I don’t know if it’s the readers, or the actors replies. Far too much self effacing comments that smack of insincere. Also, just how they talk drove me crazy. The story was s great and lots of things from behind the scenes. Great insight behind the “why” of certain episodes. With only a few hours left I’m not sure I can get through though. I recommend downloading a sample first.

this book made me hungry

I didn't get into Big Bang until the third season but then it became an annual thing for my parents and I on Thursday evenings. Listening to this was so great. I loved the behind the scenes moments, especially when they talked about eating Chinese food and pizza and how they would do it. Really enjoyed the last half because it talked about how this show effected everyone around the world. Big Bang fans will love this. it felt like a reunion.

Loved the Story!

As an avid BBT watcher, the whole concept of interviews and plot breakdowns was intriguing and wonderful to listen to. I rated Performance with 4 stars because of the guy who voiced for Jim Parsons and maybe others - he was awful. Otherwise, I loved it!

So much I never knew!!

I loved this book. The behind the scene stories were so much fun. I don’t understand why people are hating on the voice actors, it confuses me. They couldn’t get the real actors do what we’re they supposed to do? I thought they did a good job. Plus I think Jessica sounds a lot like Kaley.
I deliver mail all day and this book was very entertaining. I think I’ve watched the whole series beginning to end 6 times now so I’m a huge fan. I feel that Radloff did a wonderful job at bringing the same humor from the show to the book.

Simply outstanding!

A detailed retrospective on everything you ever wanted to know about one of the funniest, most iconic TV shows of all time written and narrated from the perspective of a fellow “superfan”and entertainment insider. Loved it!!

Great book

Loved all the character insight and such a big fan of the series. My favorite is the penny and Leonard story.

great insight

i loved (love) BBT and probably always will. it was fun to learn some of the backdrop of all those years.

Fun

This book was so fun! If you love Big Bang Theory, you will love listening to this book!