Howard Wolowitz: From Creepy Casanova to Caring Husband and Father
Introduction
The Big Bang Theory introduced us to a group of lovable nerds, each with their own quirks and eccentricities. Among them was Howard Wolowitz, a character who, while initially presented as a stereotypical and often off-putting figure, undergoes one of the most significant and heartwarming transformations throughout the series. His journey from a self-proclaimed “ladies’ man” with questionable pick-up lines to a devoted husband and loving father is a testament to the power of character development and the potential for growth, even within the confines of a sitcom. While other characters like Sheldon Cooper also experience changes, Howard Wolowitz’s evolution is particularly impactful, showcasing his journey from immature and often cringe-worthy to a valued and respected member of the group.
Early Characterization: The “Creepy” Years
In the early seasons, Howard Wolowitz was defined by a series of traits that often made him the butt of jokes, and sometimes, the source of uncomfortable moments. His defining characteristic was arguably his relentless, and frequently unsuccessful, pursuit of women. His pick-up lines were cheesy, his tactics were often misguided, and his behavior often crossed the line into inappropriate. He seemed to genuinely believe in his own charm, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Think of the countless scenes where he’d try to impress women with magic tricks, terrible impersonations, or boastful stories about his (often exaggerated) exploits. He wore tight pants and oversized belt buckles, further amplifying the image he tried so hard to portray.
Adding to this persona was his undeniable dependence on his mother, Debbie Wolowitz. Their relationship was a constant source of humor, characterized by overbearing love, endless nagging, and frequent yelling matches through closed doors. He lived at home, relied on her for everything from laundry to meals, and even had her dictate his wardrobe choices. This dependence, coupled with his awkward attempts at flirting, painted a picture of a character who was fundamentally insecure and seeking validation in all the wrong places. The character Howard Wolowitz at this time would be considered a textbook example of “toxic masculinity.”
Examples of his problematic behavior abound in the early seasons. He would often make objectifying comments about women, engage in creepy staring, and fail to understand the concept of personal space. He sometimes used his engineering skills to create gadgets designed to help him seduce women, further highlighting his misguided approach to relationships. The show initially used Howard Wolowitz for comedic effect, relying on his awkwardness and inappropriate behavior to generate laughs. While this approach was successful in some ways, it also contributed to a somewhat one-dimensional and potentially offensive portrayal.
Turning Points: Bernadette and Maturation
The turning point in Howard Wolowitz’s character arc arrives with the introduction of Bernadette Rostenkowski. Bernadette is a strong, intelligent, and independent woman who challenges Howard in ways that no one else ever had. From their very first date, it was clear that Bernadette wouldn’t tolerate Howard’s immature behavior. She saw through his façade and demanded that he treat her with respect.
Their relationship dynamic is complex and often hilarious. Initially, they are drawn to each other by their shared insecurities and similar upbringings. They both have overbearing mothers and a history of being overlooked. However, as their relationship progresses, Bernadette’s influence on Howard becomes increasingly apparent. She encourages him to grow, to take responsibility, and to become a better man.
Howard Wolowitz learns to be considerate, supportive, and less selfish. He starts to put Bernadette’s needs before his own and begins to understand the true meaning of love and commitment. He proposes to her, and while their journey to the altar is filled with obstacles, it ultimately solidifies their bond and marks a significant turning point in Howard’s life. He starts to confront his own flaws and work towards becoming the partner that Bernadette deserves.
Major Milestones & Character Growth
One of the most significant milestones in Howard Wolowitz’s journey is his trip to space. Achieving his lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut has a profound impact on his ego and perspective. While he initially revels in the attention and admiration, he soon realizes that space travel is not all that it’s cracked up to be. He experiences motion sickness, loneliness, and a deep sense of isolation.
This experience forces him to confront his own mortality and to appreciate the importance of his relationships back on Earth. When he returns from space, he is a changed man. He is more humble, more grateful, and more committed to Bernadette than ever before. He even becomes less reliant on his mother, demonstrating a newfound sense of independence.
The death of Mrs. Wolowitz is another pivotal moment in Howard’s character development. This loss is devastating for Howard, who had always been incredibly close to his mother. Her passing forces him to confront the reality of loss and to rely on his friends and Bernadette for support. It is in this moment of grief that we see the true depth of Howard Wolowitz’s character.
He is vulnerable, heartbroken, and in desperate need of comfort. His friends rally around him, providing him with the love and support he needs to get through this difficult time. This experience brings him even closer to his friends and to Bernadette, further solidifying their bond. It also forces him to grow up and become more independent, as he is now responsible for taking care of himself without his mother’s constant care.
Perhaps the most transformative experience in Howard Wolowitz’s life is becoming a father. The birth of his children, Halley and Michael, completely changes his priorities and further solidifies his growth. He embraces fatherhood with open arms, becoming a devoted and loving dad. He learns to be patient, selfless, and responsible.
He is no longer just concerned with his own needs and desires; he is now responsible for the well-being of his children. This transformation is truly remarkable, considering the immature and self-centered character he once was. As a father, Howard showcases a side of himself that was previously unseen, highlighting his capacity for love, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
Howard’s Positive Qualities and Contributions
Despite his initial flaws, Howard Wolowitz possesses many positive qualities that often go unnoticed. He is genuinely loyal to his friends, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear. He is also an incredibly talented engineer, capable of solving complex problems and creating innovative solutions. He may not always be the brightest bulb in the room, but his practical skills and ingenuity are invaluable to the group.
His humor and ability to lighten the mood are also essential to the group dynamic. He may not always be politically correct, but his jokes and impressions often provide much-needed comedic relief during stressful situations. He also has a hidden depth and vulnerability that often goes unnoticed. Beneath the surface of his sometimes-crass exterior lies a kind and compassionate heart.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Howard Wolowitz’s character arc is one of the most compelling and heartwarming aspects of The Big Bang Theory. His journey from a creepy Casanova to a caring husband and father is a testament to the potential for growth and change, even in comedic characters. While he may have started out as a stereotypical and often off-putting figure, he ultimately evolves into a lovable and relatable character who is deeply valued by his friends and family. His growth, particularly his relationship with Bernadette and his embrace of fatherhood, serves as a powerful example of personal development.
His lasting impact on the show and its audience is undeniable. Howard Wolowitz teaches us that even the most flawed individuals are capable of change and that love, friendship, and family can be powerful catalysts for personal growth. He reminds us that it’s never too late to become a better version of ourselves and that even the most awkward among us can find love and happiness. Therefore, the journey of Howard Wolowitz remains one of the most memorable and positive aspects of The Big Bang Theory.
