Sheldon's Most Compassionate Moment In The Big Bang Theory, According To Fans

Those who haven't seen "The Big Bang Theory" know at least two things about the CBS sitcom: its heavy use of pop culture references and Sheldon Cooper's (Jim Parsons) lack of social skills and arrogance. Spend some time watching how Cooper treats others and it's difficult to root for him, especially when it comes to those he deems as less intelligent than himself. Consider how he treats Penny (Kaley Cuoco), his neighbor and supposed "friend." Sheldon constantly belittles and mocks her, purposefully creates situations to torment her, and then expects her to help him out with favors.

Of course, Cooper does grow over time, learning the importance of valuing his friends, making sacrifices, and realizing that not everyone shares the same values as him. Over the show's 270 episodes, Sheldon does express occasional moments of compassion and joy towards those who love and care for him. While there are plenty to choose from, fans of "The Big Bang Theory" think there's one particular heartfelt moment on Sheldon's part that stands above the rest.

Taking to "The Big Bang Theory" fan subreddit, user u/AbbreviationsAway500 polled fans about what they think is Sheldon's most compassionate and genuine moment. With over 110 votes, it shouldn't come as a surprise that fans believe Sheldon's rousing Nobel speech is the most popular contender. Hardcore fans of "The Big Bang Theory" will know that Sheldon has dreamed about winning a Nobel prize since he was a kid. Part of the CBS sitcom's series finale, Cooper decides to make the moment ultra-special by thanking his friends for sticking by him, treating them with honest compassion and respect. "His Nobel acceptance speech was him expressing genuine emotions, something he finds incredibly difficult to do, making it a much greater sacrifice," user u/Significant_Curve286 said in response to Sheldon's heartwarming and compassionate speech.

The moment, which wraps up Sheldon's arc and provides deeper insight into how the character is finally shedding away his arrogance, was a huge moment for co-star Kaley Cuoco. "When I originally read the script, at the Nobel ceremony — when everyone stands up — I was just so amazed by the brilliant writing," the Penny actress told The Hollywood Reporter. "To give everyone their moment and to have Sheldon who, after all these years, can never apologize — actually apologize — to his friends is unbelievable. And to do it in front of people and to give of himself like that was unreal."

Other notable moments of compassion which were featured on the poll include Sheldon giving his share of profits from a patent to Howard (Simon Helberg) and Bernadette's (Melissa Rauch) child, and making Amy (Mayim Bialik) his emergency contact for work.