One of pop culture’s most iconic series ended a few years ago, The Big Bang TheoryA comedy where we see how a group of university intellectuals live together solving simple problems, solving more complex problems as the plot develops. However, there are some ends that were left loose, and related to the existence of a certain elevator that for one reason or another we haven’t seen work in almost all seasons.
One of the most iconic recurring elements was the broken elevator in the building where Sheldon, Leonard and Penny lived. From the first episode, he was out of commission, something that initially seemed temporary but quickly became a frequent running gag and an important part of the show’s narrative development. Throughout the 12 seasons, the characters walked up and down the stairs, which served as the setting for key dialogue and comedic moments.
The explanation behind the elevator failure was finally revealed in one episode: Leonard, while experimenting with rocket fuel, caused an accident which Sheldon was able to control by closing the elevator doors to prevent a major explosion. It added a layer to the story, showing the connection between the elevator and group dynamics. Although it was never on for most of the series, it was used in dream sequences, jokes, and iconic moments such as when Leonard counted the height from the fourth floor by dropping a bottle of wine.
In the final episodes, this was repaired as part of narrative closure. In the final chapter, Penny makes a sarcastic comment about how long the repairs took, marking a symbolic moment for the characters after years of hardship. In the final segment, although the protagonists try to use the elevator to transport their luggage, they resort to the stairs again, a decision that highlights the importance of this element in the series’ dynamic.
The authors confirmed that keeping the broken lift was a deliberate choice. According to the statement, this arrangement allows the characters to move while speaking, as opposed to a static scene in a living room. Ultimately, it was not only a source of humor, but also a narrative tool that helped define the characters’ relationships and personalities, providing a sense of closure by revising just before the conclusion.
Note that you can view the program MAX.
Through: MW