Big Bang Theory Fans Still Wonder: Who Got the Tenure Job After All These Years?

The well-liked CBS sitcom “The Big Bang Theory” centers around a circle of intellectually inclined friends in Pasadena, California. To maintain interest, the series frequently places Leonard, Sheldon, Howard, Raj, Penny, Amy, and Bernadette in humorous predicaments to test their friendship’s resilience. Typically, they emerge from these situations even closer than before, but there are instances when they become irritated with one another. Often, it’s Sheldon who stirs the pot due to his tendency to speak inappropriately at inopportune moments. However, an unusual episode of “The Big Bang Theory” finds everyone losing their cool.

In Season 6, Episode 20 of “The Big Bang Theory,” titled “The Tenure Turbulence,” sets Sheldon, Raj, and Leonard in competition as they vie for a tenure position opening at their institution, Caltech. However, this intriguing setup falls short as the show neglects to reveal who ultimately secures the job. Even 12 years post-airing, viewers are still debating this unresolved question.

Raj, Leonard, and Sheldon Have a Big Opportunity in The Big Bang Theory Season 6

As a passionate cinephile, I find myself immersed in “The Tenure Turbulence,” where the narrative unfolds amidst the laughter-filled Caltech cafeteria. However, the ambiance shifts dramatically when Kripke graces our presence and delivers the somber news: Professor Tupperman, a character never seen on screen, has passed away. This unfortunate event, however, presents an opportunity – a vacant tenure position now awaits. Initially feigning indifference, Raj, Leonard, and Sheldon can’t help but secretly fantasize about the perks that accompany this promotion: a salary boost and a job for life. Yet, to seal the deal, they must impress the tenure committee members, setting off a thrilling race against time and competition.

The group focused on HR manager Janine Davis, with Leonard exercising near her at the gym and Raj sending her a lengthy video about his past. Sheldon attempted a more straightforward method, giving Janine a present following a previous encounter that didn’t go well. However, he stumbled again by offering her a DVD of Roots, assuming a Black woman like her would find it appealing. As the situation escalated, Raj, Leonard, and Sheldon decided to visit Tupperman’s memorial to mend fences with the committee.

Sheldon and Leonard persuade Penny and Amy to accompany them as backup. However, events take an unexpected turn when Penny removes her coat to display a dress that reveals quite a bit. She intends to use this opportunity to flirt with committee members in order to aid Leonard in securing the job. After some disagreements, they all come to the realization that things have gone too far. They’re all prepared to leave and go home when Kripke appears with Janine, appearing to be having a private conversation with her. Feeling threatened by Kripke, they decide to enter the memorial to complete their mission. Regrettably, the show concludes without revealing who ultimately wins the competition.

The Big Bang Theory Is More Worried About Laughs Than Story

In “The Tenure Turbulence,” the tag at the end seems like a chance to disclose the victor of the tenure race, but instead, it opts for Sheldon to humiliate himself in front of Janine once more. This final scene leaves me feeling quite frustrated, especially considering that the core character securing a tenure position could significantly impact the show’s narrative. It seems logical that Kripke would triumph through charm, maintaining the status quo for the main characters. Yet, The Big Bang Theory decides not to delve into this possibility.

As a fan, I can understand why the creators might have chosen not to grant tenure to any of the characters on The Big Bang Theory. Doing so would have put constraints on their storylines, as individuals with tenure are expected to dedicate more time and energy to university projects and responsibilities beyond their work. Given that the show was at its peak during this time, significant changes to the established dynamic might not have been practical or beneficial for the series’ success.

The Big Bang Theory is streaming on Max.

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2025-05-12 21:09