CBS sitcom The Big Bang Theory is certainly no stranger to a superstar guest actor appearing in its ranks. From Elon Musk to Mark Hamill, several big names have appeared under their own name, but no-one played themselves in more episodes than Star Trek legend Wil Wheaton. Wheaton has since spoken out about his reluctance to play himself in the Golden Globe-winning sitcom.
Why did Wil Wheaton play himself in Big Bang Theory?
Wheaton made his first appearance in Big Bang in season three, episode five, The Creepy Candy Corollary.
Billed as a special guest at the comic book store, Wil took on Sheldon (played by Jim Parsons) in the final of a card game tournament.
This wasn’t the first time the pair would go head-to-head in the series, although they finished as good pals by the time Big Bang came to a close earlier this year.
Following the series finale, Wheaton told Metro how he didn’t actually want to play a version of himself.
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After initially thinking the role was a prank, Wheaton decided to approach Billy Prady, the show’s creator, to discuss the part.
Wheaton said: “I called and Bill got on the phone and he pitched me the idea of me playing myself on the show.
“I said, ‘Listen, I’m a huge fan of the show, but I’m not really interested in playing myself.
“I would rather play a character on the show, sort of like Sara Gilbert is Leslie Winkle.’”
Wheaton recalled how Prady did think about casting him in a different role.
He said: “I remember very quickly Bill said, ‘I totally understand, I totally get it.
“I will tell you that when we are casting someone you can play,
“I’ll be thrilled to bring you in, but you are the only actor in the world who can play Wil Wheaton.’”
Initially reluctant to take on the role of himself, Wheaton decided to seek advice from a friend.
Wheaton revealed his friend threatened to disown him as a pal if he didn’t take the role.
It didn’t take long for Wheaton to pick up the phone to Brady again to discuss joining the cast.
However, this time, Prady had an extra bombshell for the Star Trek actor which tipped the scales in his favour.
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Wheaton said: “I called Bill back and he said, ‘So here’s the thing.
“Since we last talked, the role has changed a little bit. Instead of playing yourself, you’re playing a delightfully evil version of yourself.’”
The Big Bang star added: “I said, ‘Well that sounds great, that’s a character! I’m on board! Let’s do it.’
“And about a week later I was on set,” Wheaton said.
The Big Bang Theory is available to stream on Netflix UK now.
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