Fans Still Salty About TBBT Character Who Deserved Way More Spotlight

The series has become a cultural phenomenon and is arguably more well-known for its characters than for its episodes or gags. What's more, the fandom with TBBT doesn't end with its main characters but also encompasses its supporting cast.

Sure, most recall Sheldon (Jim Parsons) or Penny (Kaley Cuoco ) when someone brings up The Big Bang Theory.

Nevertheless, other characters, some of which only made brief stints on the sitcom, have left lasting impressions. Take Leslie Winkle (Sara Gilbert), for example.

Leslie first appeared on the first season of TBBT in 2007 and, despite limited screen time, became a fan favorite. First, as Sheldon's notorious rival and secondly, as Leonard's on-and-off-again love interest.

Leslie was a somewhat regular in season one before being promoted to the main cast ahead of season two. However, the promotion was short-lived, and by season three, she disappeared completely (only to return for a cameo in season 9).

In hindsight, many TBBT fans regard the premature exit as a missed opportunity. All in all, Leslie Winkle appeared in less than 10 episodes.

For many, that was far too few to do the character justice. So, what happened to the actress to explain the sudden departure?

According to sources, it's hard to fathom how Sara Gilbert went from series regular to afterthought instantly.

She was even offered a promotion with CBS, including a higher salary, so it didn't make sense why the network would suddenly change its mind ahead of season three (in which Winkle only appears in the season finale).

Be that as it may, according to EW, the decision to ignore her ultimately came down to the writers. Leslie "was bumped to recurring because producers weren't able to generate enough story for her character."

So Leonard had moved past Leslie and pursued Penny. It became the primary plot and love story of TBBT, ultimately, costing Sara Gilbert her job.

Accordingly, the writers believed there wasn't a clear direction to go with the character and that it was time to part ways.

Unfortunately, years later, audiences still mourn Leslie's departure. There are numerous Reddit threads dedicated to her character and how TBBT wasted a talent.

Yes, she did return for a memorable season 9 appearance, but by then it was too late – CBS had failed to fully capture the character.

Despite her brief, untimely exit from The Big Bang Theory, Sara Gilbert has done well for herself. She has a recurring role on the new Roseanne along with appearing in movies like Bad Teacher.