Final Controversy on the Big Bang Theory
Although many of the characters in The Big Bang Theory had happy endings, Penny's unexpected pregnancy twist set off debate. Though Penny has always opposed having children throughout the show, the finale showed she was expecting, which left viewers let down by the lack of justification for this abrupt change.
Leonard's Sperm Donation Storyline Origins in Pilot of The Big Bang Theory
The very first episode of The Big Bang Theory marks the genesis of this divisive storyline. Leonard and Sheldon consider donating sperm in the pilot, then change their mind. This early scene highlights Leonard's long-held wish to be a father—a wish that stayed constant across the show.
Leonard's Potential Sperm Donation Made Possible by the Final Season of the Big Bang Theory
Season 12 sees Leonard's childhood friend Zack, who is infertile, ask Leonard to donate sperm. While Penny questions the idea of Leonard perhaps becoming a father despite their decision against having children, Leonard is first excited at the prospect. Penny's pregnancy was foreshadowed by this storyline, which begged issues about their intended family size.
The Season 12 Fight Never Really Worked Penny and Leonard
Still, the plot around the sperm donation seemed a little disjointed. The couple's talks mostly addressed Penny's possible disappointment of her father and husband, not considering the consequences of Leonard being Zack's father. This gave the viewers the impression that the storyline was only meant to introduce the idea of children into their future, so guiding the surprising turn of events in the finale.
This Big Bang Theory Plot Predicted the Pregnancy Twist in the Finale
Although the show never specifically addressed Penny's change of heart about children, the finale did have subdued hints. Penny's nausea complaints all through the finale suggested her pregnancy. Another factor was the episode "The Donation Oscillation," which highlighted Leonard's abstention to offer a sperm sample. Though Penny lacked a clear change of heart, the show subtly implied she had fallen pregnant.
The pregnancy of Penny and Leonard: a dishonesty to her character?
Though apparently satisfying Leonard's need for children, the ending of the Big Bang Theory left many feeling as though Penny's character was underreated. The pregnancy turn in the finale drew criticism since Penny's strong dislike of children across the show seemed to be overlooked. Though Penny's change in viewpoint felt sudden and inexplicable, the show did a better job of capturing Leonard's longing for children. Although the twist of the finale was hinted at, Penny's emotions' ambiguity finally added to the debate around the conclusion.
