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Q: Is there any reason why John Goodman was never in "The Big Bang Theory"?

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Author: 
Adam Thomlison / TV Media

It seems there was no particular reason for it, but I see your point. Mega-hit 2000s sitcom "The Big Bang Theory" was pretty stacked with stars from mega-hit '90s sitcom "Roseanne," including Johnny Galecki (Leonard on "BBT" and David on "Roseanne"), Laurie Metcalf (Sheldon's mom, Mary, on "BBT" and Jackie on "Roseanne") and Sara Gilbert (Leslie on "BBT" and Darlene on "Roseanne"). But the real glue that binds these shows together is Chuck Lorre. The "Big Bang Theory" creator wrote for "Roseanne" early in his incredible career.

But despite all of these links, John Goodman, one of the more popular stars on "Roseanne," never made an appearance. The only reason for this seems to be because he was just too busy.

Roseanne Barr was, of course, the focal point of "Roseanne," but in terms of general acting success, Goodman was always the biggest name on the show. And throughout his sitcom success, he has also maintained a parallel career as a critically acclaimed big-screen star.

That's continued in recent years as well and has expanded to include a niche as a voice actor (in such smashes as the "Monsters, Inc." and "Transformers" movies).

When he has appeared in sitcoms, it's tended to be lead roles, such as the Amazon series "Alpha House" and now the HBO comedy "The Righteous Gemstones."

With all that going on, Goodman would have been a much bigger "get" than his fellow "Roseanne" alums, and so his absence from "BBT" is at least understandable. 

 

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