The Bizarre Penny Theory On The Big Bang Theory That Has Fans Scratching Their Heads

Fan theories are a reach at the best of the times. However, they can provide some interesting food for thought that ultimately leads to some intense debates with strangers in the comments sections of internet message boards. Some fan theories can be pretty out there, making connections that most people wouldn't think of in a million years. For the most part, however, they're entertaining and exemplify just how passionate and thoughtful fandoms can be.

Given that it's one of the most successful sitcoms of the 21st century, it's hardly surprising to learn that "The Big Bang Theory" has inspired some pretty outrageous fan theories throughout the years. Some diehard viewers have proposed that the sitcom's entire story takes place in Sheldon's (Jim Parsons) head, while others have argued that Penny (Kaley Cuoco) is a spy. The list goes on, but Penny has been the subject of some of the more thought-provoking theories out there. One of them is even more exciting than the shadowy world of espionage.

How well do we really know Penny in "The Big Bang Theory?" Let's look at the facts. Her last name is never revealed and she lives in an expensive apartment, despite claiming to be a struggling actress who works as a waitress to make ends meet. When you look at these factors, the aforementioned spy theory doesn't seem impossible. However, another theory is that she's actually in Witness Protection.

In a forum discussion on The Big Bang Theory Fan Site, one user who goes by the name Bear Guy suggested that her surname was kept under wraps because she testified against her criminal family members back in Nebraska. As you'll probably recall, her brother is involved in the methamphetamine business and he spent time in prison for his illegal activities.

Of course, it's also worth bearing in mind that some of Penny's family members did appear in "The Big Bang Theory" and they didn't harbor any hostility towards her. If she was in a Witness Protection program to avoid them, they didn't do a great job protecting her whereabouts. Then again, perhaps her family made some dangerous enemies and she was trying to hide from them, instead?