Summary
- The Big Bang Theory's series finale cut a scene featuring a special gift from Stephen Hawking to Sheldon and Amy's wedding.
- Fans loved the scene for its tribute to Hawking's impact on the show and Sheldon and Amy's relationship.
- Showrunner Steve Holland explained that the scene was cut due to the finale being too packed with content, but it should have made it into the episode.
Looking back at the show's 12 season run, The Big Bang Theory had lots of special moments. Whether it was a moment in Sheldon and Amy's relationship, or a special guest star, the series offered fans so many great episodes. However, there was one scene in particular that didn't make it into the series finale, featuring Jim Parsons and Mayim Bilaik.
Following the couple's wedding, they receive a special gift from none other than Stephen Hawking. The tribute moment was perfectly done, and quite emotional. However, it didn't make it onto the show.
We're going to reveal the scene in question, while taking a look at why it was cut from the show, according to showrunner Steve Holland. In addition, we'll take a closer at Stephen Hawking impact on the series, and how The Big Bang Theory cast felt about his contributions to the show.
Amy And Sheldon's Wedding Gift From Stephen Hawking Was Cut From The Season Finale
Stephen Hawking's guest appearance on The Big Bang Theory gave the series a massive boost. He meant a lot to the show, and the program wanted to honor Hawking. There was a particular scene that was shot after Amy and Sheldon's wedding. During the scene, they get a special gift from Stephen Hawking which turns out to be a pocket watch. The watch is engraved, "I'm so glad you finally married Amy. It's about time. Ha ha ha, love Stephen Hawking.
Fans in particular adored this deleted scene, especially given the impact Hawking made on Sheldon and Amy's relationship at the start. One fan tweeted, "Please air this. Everyone should see this. Stephen Hawking was a big part of their romance. Sheldon would not have asked Amy if he hadn't asked Stephen first. PLEASE."
Ultimately, Steve Holland revealed the reason the footage was cut, and it was because the finale was way too packed with other content.
Holland said, "Usually our scripts come in at about 40, 45 pages. This one was about 65 pages. We spent the week [of production] paring it back.... Some of those cuts were painful, but anything that wasn't servicing [the central story] fell by the wayside."
This scene in particular certainly qualifies as a painful cut. In truth, it should have made it into the season finale.
How Jim Parsons Really Felt About Stephen Hawking's Time On The Big Bang Theory
Similar to the rest of the cast, Jim Parsons explained the profound impact Hawking had on the series. Not only that, but Parsons called the experience an amazing one, while he was also intimidated at times getting to work alongside such a brilliant mind.
"The fact that he knew of our show, was interested in being on it, was willing to come play with us group of monkeys for a couple days was really moving,” Parsons revealed.
“It was just, it was an amazing experience. It was an intimidating one. I’d be lying if I said I was comfortable. … To get to finally meet him was, it was just overwhelming,” he continued. “And it’s one of the things that’s kind of bittersweet in a way because once he’s passed now and now we’re talking about him, it really hammers home how fortunate I was to get to be with him."
Parsons admitted to being nervous during scenes alongside Hawking in the fear that he would embarrass himself. Although Jim appreciated the moments alongside Stephen, there was also a lot of relief once the scenes came to an end.
Chuck Lorre Shared The Importance Of Stephen Hawking's Contributions To The Big Bang Theory
The Big Bang Theory was able to book some major guest stars. This became easier and easier along the way, especially given the show's success. However, despite all the major names to appear on the show, Chuck Lorre credits Stephen Hawking for giving the series a major boost with his presence. Lorre is forever grateful for his contributions to the show.
The creator of The Big Bang Theory revealed, “His willingness to be part of our world, to come and be part of our show, was an extraordinary acknowledgment … it felt like maybe we were doing something worthwhile that he would agree to participate, you know? He first was on the show six years ago and it was hard to believe this is really happening, you know?
Lorre continues, "We were really lucky. We got to work and spend time with Stephen Hawking. I mean how blessed is that? How fortunate can you get?”
Not only did he agree to participate, but his impact on the show proved to be huge and something everyone on the series won't ever forget.
