As a huge fan of Bob Newhart and his iconic character, Professor Proton from “The Big Bang Theory” and “Young Sheldon,” I can’t help but feel a deep sense of loss with his passing in 2024. His impact on both shows, and more importantly, the character development of Sheldon Cooper, was immeasurable.
Bob Newhart sadly passed away on July 18, 2024, following a succession of brief health issues. At the age of 94, the beloved comedian left behind an abundant collection of hilarious moments, such as his iconic portrayal of Professor Proton from “The Big Bang Theory.” Noteworthy is that Newhart’s final acting role was on the prequel series, with appearances in two episodes – “Teenager Soup and a Little Ball of Fib” (Season 3) and “A Baby Tooth and the Egyptian God of Knowledge.” He also lent his voice to these productions.
In simpler terms, Professor Proton significantly influences Sheldon Cooper’s (Iain Armitage and Jim Parsons) passion for science. This Mr. Wizard-like TV personality sparks Sheldon’s curiosity and becomes his cherished role model throughout his life. As Sheldon achieves remarkable milestones in his scientific career, he remains connected to Professor Proton, aiming to engage with him – with consequences that could be positive or negative.
Professor Proton became Sheldon’s friend – almost in spite of himself
In the 22nd episode of Season 6 in “The Big Bang Theory” titled “The Proton Resurgence,” Arthur Jeffries, better known as Professor Proton, makes his first appearance to fans. Sheldon Cooper and Leonard Hofstadter invite him for a private engagement at their apartment. Shockingly, Professor Proton is taken aback when he learns that his audience will be made up of six grown-ups. Feeling displeased, he shares with Sheldon and Leonard the disappointments he’s faced in life. Over the course of their interaction, a connection forms between the three men, and they even get drawn into Professor Proton’s longstanding feud with Bill Nye.
In Season 7, the character makes two appearances. Initially, he irritates Sheldon by aiding Leonard on a project (“The Proton Displacement”). Later, he passes away, forcing Sheldon to deal with another loss in “The Proton Transmogrification.” Afterward, Jeffries and his Professor Proton persona continue to materialize before Sheldon as a spirit. Each time Sheldon visualizes him, Jeffries is dressed in Jedi robes and enveloped by a purple glow, reminiscent of force ghosts from “Star Wars” lore. His apparitions are depicted in “The Opening Night Excitation” of Season 9, “The Proton Regeneration” in Season 11, and “The Planetarium Collision” in Season 12.
Bob Newhart’s unique brand of comedy will be deeply mourned, yet endures through shows like “The Big Bang Theory” and “Young Sheldon.” His wit continues to shine brightly, much like the stars he praised as Professor Proton.
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2024-07-19 01:59