Bob Newhart Agreed To Join The Big Bang Theory Under Two Conditions
Key Points:
- Bob Newhart agreed to appear on "The Big Bang Theory" only if his scenes were filmed in front of a live studio audience, valuing the energy it brings based on his experience with classic sitcoms.
- He also requested a semi-recurring role rather than a single appearance, which co-creator Chuck Lorre accommodated.
- Newhart debuted as Arthur Jeffries, aka Professor Proton, in Season 6 and reprised the role in six more episodes across subsequent seasons, influencing key characters Sheldon and Leonard.
- He additionally appeared as Professor Proton on the "Young Sheldon" prequel series, including a live-action pilot and two voice roles.
- Newhart's final on-screen credit as Professor Proton was in 202











