Altadena and Pasadena in The Big Bang Theory

The Big Bang Theory was a beloved American sitcom that captivated audiences for over a decade. Created by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, the show premiered on September 24, 2007, and concluded its impressive 12-season run on May 16, 2019.

The storyline revolves around the lives of four socially awkward yet brilliant scientists: Leonard Hofstadter, Sheldon Cooper, Howard Wolowitz, and Rajesh Koothrappali. Their lives are further enriched by the addition of Penny and two equally fascinating characters: Amy Farrah Fowler and Bernadette Rostenkowski.

Through the journey of these characters navigating life, love, and friendship, The Big Bang Theory won viewers’ hearts with its witty humor, pop culture references, and celebration of geek culture, turning its quirky characters into cultural icons.

Altadena and Pasadena: The Heart of the Series

One of the standout aspects of The Big Bang Theory was its unique setting in Southern California. The series primarily takes place in two neighboring cities, Altadena and Pasadena, both located in Los Angeles County. These locations played a crucial role in the show, adding to its distinctive charm and authenticity.

Located in the northeastern part of Los Angeles County, Pasadena is a charming and diverse city known for its rich history and cultural atmosphere. The city is home to several renowned scientific institutions, including the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

In addition, Pasadena is famous for its festivals and cultural events, such as the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl, which attract visitors from around the globe. Its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene make Pasadena an appealing destination for residents and tourists seeking unique cultural and scientific experiences.

Altadena is a charming community located north of Pasadena in the West San Gabriel Valley. Unlike its bustling neighbor, Altadena offers a quieter and more picturesque environment, with abundant green spaces and natural scenery. The area is known for its stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and parks, such as the renowned Altadena Park and San Gabriel State Park.

Altadena retains its suburban charm with a blend of historic and modern homes while providing easy access to various amenities and outdoor activities. For those seeking an escape from the fast-paced city life, Altadena serves as the perfect retreat, offering a serene and welcoming atmosphere.

Pasadena: Where Science and Quirkiness Converge

The Big Bang Theory unfolds in the charming West San Gabriel Valley, specifically in Pasadena, California. This area, part of the renowned Los Angeles County, provides an ideal setting for the series' storyline. The show is one of the few productions that spotlight this region. Pasadena's cultural richness and picturesque landscapes create the perfect backdrop for the hilarious adventures of The Big Bang Theory characters.

Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons), Leonard Hofstadter (Johnny Galecki), and Penny (Kaley Cuoco) share an apartment floor in a building that plays a central role in the series. Interestingly, N Los Robles Ave is a real street in Pasadena, and the show references actual street names and locations, adding a touch of authenticity to the storyline. Despite this, the fictional apartment building, the site of countless laughs and emotional moments, remains an imaginary landmark at the heart of the series.

The series highlighted the city's scientific community and its contributions to cutting-edge research, giving it an authentic geek appeal. Additionally, Pasadena's eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and comic book stores became favorite hangout spots for the characters, immersing viewers even further into their quirky universe.

The comic book store frequently featured in The Big Bang Theory is the "Comic Center of Pasadena," owned by Stuart Bloom (Kevin Sussman). Interestingly, the name of this comic book store is rarely mentioned throughout the show’s 12 seasons. Instead, it’s referred to as “the comic book store” by the characters.

Themed merchandise from The Big Bang Theory's "Comic Center of Pasadena", including T-shirts, hoodies, and more, is available on Amazon. While the "Comic Center of Pasadena" is a fictional creation, Pasadena boasts several real-life comic book stores for fans to explore.

In honor of The Big Bang Theory, Pasadena named a street after the series. This street, called "Big Bang Theory Way," is located in the historic Old Town Pasadena neighborhood. "Big Bang Theory Way" is pedestrian-only and spans three blocks in Pasadena, running between Colorado Blvd and Union St.

Altadena: A Picturesque Suburb with Unique Charm

Altadena, located north of Pasadena, served as the home of Howard Wolowitz (Simon Helberg), who spent much of the early series living with his mother in Altadena. The scenic beauty of Altadena, characterized by tree-lined streets and charming neighborhoods, provided an ideal setting for the show.

The Big Bang Theory not only brought laughter to millions of viewers worldwide but also became a cultural phenomenon that celebrated geek culture and embraced the quirks of its lovable characters. The portrayal of Altadena and Pasadena added depth and realism to the narrative, showcasing the charm of suburban life and the brilliance of the local scientific community.

As it concluded its 12-season journey, the series left a lasting legacy, reminding audiences that friendships and love can be found even in the quirkiest corners of the universe.

Where to watch: HBO Max