The Big Bang Theory's Long-Running Storyline
Nearly twenty years ago, The Big Bang Theory set up a storyline that would take hundreds of episodes to resolve.
The show's creators patiently waited, knowing that a long-running series can afford to delay payoffs.
One notable example is the broken elevator in the characters' building, which remains out of order from the start of the series.
- The elevator's malfunction is first introduced when Penny moves into the apartment across from Sheldon and Leonard's place.
- The characters are forced to walk up several flights of stairs, leading to humorous and meaningful conversations.
The elevator remains broken until The Big Bang Theory's penultimate episode, 278 episodes after its initial introduction.
This prolonged storyline showcases the show's ability to wait years before paying off a plot point, making the payoff even more satisfying for fans.
Author's summary: The Big Bang Theory sets up a storyline that takes years to resolve.