Part of the success of The Big Bang Theory can be attributed to the popular culture its characters are submerged in. Their interests line up with that of the audiences and in doing so the show really avoided some of the typical narrative clichés that sit-coms often fall into.
Over the years the gang has demonstrated their love for many well-known franchises from the fantasy and science fiction worlds. Of course, these nods to pop culture also meant that there was room for some surprising cameos from great guest stars. But which of these fictional brands are the favorite of the Big Bang Theory characters?
DC Comics
Perhaps one of the most iconic scenes in the show saw the gang dress up for a costume party at the comic book store. With all of the characters coming as someone from the Justice League, this was The Big Bang Theory showing how much they love DC Comics.
Over the years there's been plenty of nods to the heroes and villains from this famous comic book company. Sheldon is well known for his love of both The Flash and Green Lantern and there are always dozens of comic books around the apartment featuring characters like the Dark Knight.
Marvel Comics
The many scenes in the comic book store also indicate the gang's love for Marvel Comics as well. Indeed, there are some Hulk, Fantastic Four, and Iron Man fans in the house, with the group debating the lore of Marvel time and time again. One cameo in the show really took their fandom to the next level though.
Some of the characters actually get to meet Stan Lee, one of the most well-known creators at Marvel. Asides from this, Penny, Amy, and Bernie also try to get into comics, with Thor particularity taking their interest. There are countless other examples of the group sporting their Marvel pride.
Star Trek
Star Trek could be the show which is mentioned the most in The Big Bang Theory. All of the group have costumes from the show and Leonard even occasionally likes to wear his around the house. The series even has a Trek alumni in the form of Will Wheaton!
It's clear that the often misunderstood Sheldon actually relates to Spock the most, which is perhaps why the series has become so personal to him. On one trip to Comic-Con, the squad actually gets stuck in the desert in their full Star Trek gear in a particularly disastrous adventure.
Star Wars
While Star Trek might be one of their biggest loves, the scientist within them is also put to the side to enjoy the fantastical science fiction franchise Star Wars. There are numerous references to this world-renowned brand across the show's many seasons.
From Sheldon's Yoda-like mentor to the construction of a LEGO Death Star, there are lots of ways both narratively and through props that Star Wars has been mentioned. In one major episode, the crew actually goes to watch the debut of the new film at the cinema, although Sheldon misses it to take a personal step in his relationship with Amy.
Doctor Who
When it comes to sci-fi shows, some of the group are also into the British hit Doctor Who. In fact, Howard even owns a TARDIS at one stage and has some of the costumes of the famous time traveler. Sheldon is equally into the Doctor's adventures though.
Interestingly, there are a few parallels between the Doctor and Sheldon especially in regards to how they socially interact with those around them. While it may not be the most referenced piece of pop culture in the show, it's still one of Howard and Sheldon's favorite programs.
Game Of Thrones
Westeros has been incredibly appealing to this group; some of which have even read the books before getting into the HBO show Game Of Thrones. There's a lot of nods to this fantasy franchise, including some of the incredible props being featured on the set.
Stuart even came dressed as Jon Snow at one point, really putting the gang's love for the series in the spotlight. It's unusual for the group to be so into the genre, considering they are usually sci-fi fans. But The Big Bang Theory reflects reality and audiences' obsession with the drama.
Dungeons And Dragons
The group loves board games and other role-playing adventures and it perhaps would have been fun to see a spin-off show featuring the group playing through famous RPGs. Dungeons & Dragons is easily the most famous of its genre though.
In fact, there's a whole episode dedicated to the squad playing the game and hoping to be invited to Will Wheaton's high-profile quests, featuring well-known TV and film actors. The series puts a lot of focus on this beloved game, therefore!
Battlestar Galactica
Battlestar Galactica is more of a niche sci-fi show, but one that has popped up in the series a few times. Leonard, Sheldon, and Howard in particular love the series, with the latter having a crush on actress Katee Sackhoff who actually makes a cameo in the series.
In fact, Leonard actually has such a love for the show that he even has a suit from the series in his wardrobe, which Penny finds much to her amusement. Including Battlestar Galactica is a way of showing that The Big Bang Theory recognizes both fan favorites and cult hits alike.
Harry Potter
Harry Potter is one of the most popular movie and book franchises in the world and there are a few fans in The Big Bang Theory as well. Amy might actually be the most knowledgeable of the group when it comes to the Wizarding World and even owns her own robe.
Rajesh has also demonstrated that he is quite a fan of the films though, watching them plenty of times on screen and even comparing Cambridge to Hogwarts after making a trip to the British University. Plus, he tried to buy his own wand from eBay; although it turned out to just be a stick.
World Of Warcraft
World Of Warcraft is another RPG that the group loves to play and even Bernadette has had a go on it. It's the massively multiplayer game that is home to orcs, goblins, warriors, and beasts. It combines magic, adventure, and all the other elements that Howard and the gang look for in their pop culture.
However, Howard started a brief relationship with someone on the game, which Bernadette felt betrayed by. She broke up with Howard because of his actions on World Of Warcraft, leading to a heartbreaking moment in the show's history.