We may earn a commission from purchases made through links.
When *The Big Bang Theory* premiered in 2007, the main cast consisted of five actors: Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper, Johnny Galecki as Leonard Hofstadter, Kunal Nayyar as Raj Koothrappali, Simon Helberg as Howard Wolowitz, and Kaley Cuoco as Penny. Over time, co-creator Chuck Lorre and his team introduced supporting characters who eventually became series regulars. Among these were Melissa Rauch as Bernadette Rostenkowski, Mayim Bialik as Amy Fowler, and others. But which character was originally intended to appear in just one episode? That would be Bernadette, played by Melissa Rauch.
In a February 2023 interview on *The Jennifer Hudson Show*, Rauch, who stars in NBC’s *Night Court* reboot, reflected on her unexpected journey with *The Big Bang Theory*. She admitted that she initially thought her role would be short-lived. “I still don’t fully grasp the magnitude of the experience,” Rauch shared. “A week before I landed the role of Bernadette, I was at the unemployment office. I was only supposed to be on the show for one episode, but then they asked me to stay longer. I’m endlessly grateful for how it all turned out.”
In Jessica Radloff’s 2022 book, *The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series*, Rauch recounted the same story, noting that a spontaneous call to her agent played a pivotal role. “I still have the email from my audition that read: ‘Attached material for the role of Bernadette, a guest star,’” Rauch recalled. “I was down to my last $15 in September 2009, but shortly after, I called my agent and said, ‘Is there something you think I’d be right for?’ I needed work and hated having to make that call, but I’m glad I did. That phone call changed everything.”
How Did Melissa Rauch End Up as Bernadette on *The Big Bang Theory*?
In Jessica Radloff’s book, the *The Big Bang Theory* creative team unanimously agreed that they *loved* Melissa Rauch from the moment she auditioned for the role. Steve Molaro, an executive producer, writer, and former showrunner, told Radloff: “Her audition was unlike anyone else’s. She was funny, cute, and we immediately thought, ‘Wow, she’s great. Let’s cast her!’ It was that simple.”
Casting directors Nikki Valko and Ken Miller felt the same way. Valko described Rauch as “comedy gold,” adding, “She walked into the room, and we were immediately captivated. She had a presence we hadn’t seen before.” Miller echoed this sentiment, particularly praising Rauch’s strength despite her petite stature. “She brought this sass and energy,” Miller said. “It was such a fun contrast to Howard, who was this momma’s boy. The dynamic between them was perfect.”
According to Simon Helberg, Bernadette Made Howard Better on *The Big Bang Theory*
Simon Helberg, who played Howard Wolowitz, had nothing but praise for Melissa Rauch and her character Bernadette. In Jessica Radloff’s book, Helberg reflected on Howard’s evolution: “Howard was this dirty, philandering Lothario for so long. I didn’t know if he’d ever break out of that cycle. When Melissa came on, I thought, ‘This is going to be really fun.’ She brought something unique to the show.”
Helberg also highlighted the chemistry between Rauch and himself, joking about her signature high-pitched voice and petite frame. “She’s the kindest, most wonderful person,” Helberg said. “I remember her first episode vividly—the scene in the restaurant where we go on a blind date with Leonard and Penny. There was this immediate spark. It was like having the best partner you could ask for. You’re only as good as your partner, and I was lucky to have her.”
*The Big Bang Theory*, including all of Bernadette’s best moments, is now streaming on Max.
