StaffFor 12 seasons, Simon Helberg brought to life the unforgettable character of Howard Wolowitz on The Big Bang Theory. Known for his bold fashion choices, outrageous flirtations, and razor-sharp wit, Howard was one of the show’s most beloved characters. As part of the core friend group alongside Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons), Leonard Hofstadter (Johnny Galecki), and Raj Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar), Howard’s journey from an awkward wannabe-ladies’ man to a devoted husband and father was both hilarious and heartwarming.
But after 279 episodes, does Simon Helberg have a favorite episode? The answer isn’t simple. In an April 2022 interview with Newsweek, while promoting his film As They Made Us, Helberg revealed that choosing a single favorite episode was a challenge. However, he did mention several standout moments that made his time on the show especially memorable.
A Legendary Guest Appearance: Stephen Hawking
One of the most iconic episodes in Helberg’s mind was when Stephen Hawking guest-starred on the show. The renowned physicist appeared in seven episodes of The Big Bang Theory, but his very first appearance in Season 5’s The Hawking Excitation stood out to Helberg. In this episode, Howard, who works as an aerospace engineer, is assigned to assist Hawking during his university visit. This leads to an hilarious sequence where Sheldon desperately tries to get Howard to introduce him to Hawking, eventually leading to one of the funniest exchanges in the show’s history.
Helberg reflected on this unique opportunity, stating that meeting and working with Hawking was a surreal and humbling experience. The presence of one of the world’s greatest minds on a comedy sitcom was an unforgettable milestone for the entire cast.
Howard and Bernadette: A Love Story That Transformed the Character
Simon Helberg emphasized that his on-screen relationship with Melissa Rauch (Bernadette Rostenkowski-Wolowitz) played a pivotal role in shaping Howard’s character arc. Introduced in Season 3, Bernadette completely changed Howard’s trajectory, taking him from a one-dimensional, inappropriate flirt to a deeply loving husband and father.
Helberg noted that any episode where he worked closely with Melissa Rauch was among his favorites. One standout was Season 4, Episode 24 (The Roommate Transmogrification), in which Bernadette announces that she has landed a high-paying job, triggering an existential crisis for Howard, who is used to being the “successful” one. The dynamic shift between the two showcased real character growth and added depth to Howard’s previously exaggerated persona.
Another memorable moment came in Season 7’s The Romance Resonance. In this episode, Howard writes a romantic song for Bernadette to celebrate their anniversary. However, she ends up quarantined in a hospital room due to potential exposure to a virus. Instead of canceling his grand gesture, Howard performs the song for her through the hospital glass window with the entire gang joining in. The lyrics, which reference geek culture with lines like “I’d be Doctor Who without the TARDIS” and “I’d be an atom without a bomb”, made the moment extra special for fans.
Melissa Rauch later reflected on the emotional significance of this scene, revealing that the tears she shed on-screen were real. The overwhelming love and support from her co-stars in that moment made it a career highlight for her as well.
Howard’s Heartbreaking Loss: The Death of His Mother
One of the most emotionally powerful episodes in The Big Bang Theory occurred in Season 8, Episode 15 (The Comic Book Store Regeneration), when Howard learns about the sudden passing of his mother, Mrs. Wolowitz. Though she was never physically seen on screen, Carol Ann Susi’s voice performance was legendary, and her character was a huge part of Howard’s identity.
In the episode, Howard receives the devastating news that his mother has died peacefully while visiting her sister in Florida. The scene is deeply emotional, with the entire gang coming together to support Howard in his grief. Simon Helberg called this one of the most challenging episodes to film, given the real-life passing of Carol Ann Susi in 2014.
The loss of Mrs. Wolowitz also played a critical role in furthering Howard’s maturity arc, as he had to face life without his overbearing yet loving mother. His character, once dependent on her for everything, truly evolved into a stronger, more independent adult in the following seasons.
Simon Helberg has repeatedly acknowledged how the writing, his co-stars, and guest appearances all helped shape Howard into a multi-dimensional character. Reflecting on his initial portrayal as a stereotypical “creepy nerd”, Helberg was grateful that the character evolved over the years. He credited Melissa Rauch and their on-screen chemistry for making Howard a more relatable and sympathetic figure. Instead of remaining a one-note “wannabe Casanova,” Howard’s emotional depth increased, especially as he navigated marriage, fatherhood, and career ambitions.
Another moment that highlighted Howard’s growth was in Season 5, Episode 24 (The Countdown Reflection), when he and Bernadette get married just before he blasts off into space. This pivotal episode showcased Howard’s love for Bernadette and his lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut, blending comedy, romance, and ambition seamlessly. After 12 years of laughter, love, and growth, Simon Helberg’s portrayal of Howard Wolowitz remains a fan favorite. Whether through his quirky humor, heartfelt love for Bernadette, or emotional character transformation, Howard left an indelible mark on television history.
Though Helberg may not have a single favorite episode, it is clear that he cherishes the incredible experiences and unforgettable moments from his time on The Big Bang Theory. His admiration for his co-stars, particularly Melissa Rauch, reflects just how special the show’s chemistry was. As fans continue to rewatch The Big Bang Theory, Howard Wolowitz’s best moments will continue to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.
