‘Big Bang Theory’ Congressional Hearing On The Show’s Popularity: Watch The Parody Video

The Big Bang Theory is undeniably popular. The show’s last new episode, which aired earlier this month, brought in more than 18 million viewers. Despite the high numbers, there are people who have never seen the show or even know someone who watches it. For these individuals, the popularity of Big Bang remains a mystery.

So much of a mystery, in fact, that it warrants a congressional hearing. That is the premise behind the Big Bang Theory parody video produced by Above Average, an online comedy channel owned by Broadway Video. Video is home to Saturday Night Live, among other shows, giving it a sketch-comedy credential.

The Big Bang parody is part of Above Average’s Congressional Hearings series, billed as “Congress takes on society’s minor issues in an attempt to get something.” During the clip, an actor playing a Big Bang fan attempts to explain its popularity. The fan, as portrayed, seems almost like a Sheldon-clone with a touch of snobbery — it’s unclear if real life Big Bang watchers would recognize themselves in the parody. The fan answers questions about the high ratings and the high salaries paid to cast members.

You can watch that clip below.

Mashable states that despite The Big Bang Theory’s ratings dominance, “much of the Internet hates the show with a burning passion.” Emily Gould wrote in Salon back in November that she watched the show for the first time this season and was less than impressed, although she gave Big Bang points for its “relatively progressive treatment of gender.”

Amid the critical pans, it is clear Big Bang has a loyal audience. The cast recently picked up the People’s Choice Award for favorite television show.

The Guardian analyzed why fans love the show, and it comes down to funny jokes and relatable characters. The paper quoted Variety writer Katherine Brodsky on the clique the show promotes.

“This is the age of the geek and ‘The Big Bang Theory’s’ popularity is a reflection of a massive cultural shift where we’re celebrating the brainy, the intellectual and the different – instead of making them an outcast. ‘Big Bang Theory’ lets audiences identify with and be part of that geek world. The jock and high school beauty queen are dead.”

Jim Parsons and his Big Bang Theory cast mates recently spoke about the show’s success and how much of it can be credited to show runner Chuck Lorre, who has a history of popular sitcoms to his credit.

A new episode of The Big Bang Theory airs January 29.

[The Big Bang Theory image via CBS]