The Big Bang Theory is just one of four Chuck Lorre comedies currently on the CBS schedule. The television hit-maker is also behind Mom , Mike & Molly , and Two and a Half Men . At a meeting of television critics on January 15, the casts of Chuck Lorre shows attempted to explain his success.
The success includes not only first-run ratings, but the sitcoms’ audiences even when they are in perpetual, and seemingly, never-ending reruns. The question was what makes a show so popular that even when it ends — such as Two and a Half Men will be doing in a matter of weeks — that it continues to be watched and enjoyed.
Jim Parsons, one of the best known faces of The Big Bang Theory , had an unusual explanation. Parsons could have identified the show’s strong writing, cast chemistry, or storylines. Instead, he singled out Chuck Lorre’s musical background. A situation comedy, he said, is a lot like a song.
“Chuck was a musician before he was a writer, and one thing all of these shows have in common is a rhythm. These shows [perform strongly when in repeats]. You’ve seen them three times, but it’s like a pop song — it’s got rhythm… He’ll come in when we’re rehearsing and clean it up.”
Parsons’ co-star Simon Helberg had a similar take, pointing out Lorre’s instinct for authenticity in his shows, by simply knowing what’s funny and what’s not.
“He’s a barometer for the truth. Like Jim was saying about the rhythm, he has perfect pitch for the truth. You know if [we hear] Chuck laughing, you know the majority of people will also laugh.”
Melissa Rauch called Lorre “the comedy whisperer.”
Last May, Vulture took a broader look at the success of The Big Bang Theory and chalked it up to a number of factors, not least of which was the casting. Big Bang paired seasoned television comedy actors Kaley Cuoco and Johnny Galecki with Parsons, a “breakout star.” That combined with a good timeslot and popular network all contributed to its success.
Vulture also pointed out that Chuck Lorre was important to its high ratings, and quoted Lorre himself on what makes a good comedy.
“Stories should be about these characters trying to make it through the day. The obstacles in [their] path — that’s where the comedy comes from. You can start any story with the seven deadly sins. We all fall prey to those.”
The Big Bang Theory airs Thursdays on CBS.
