The Big Bang Theory Couple That Would Have Made A Lot Of Sense (But Never Got Together)

On CBS' "The Big Bang Theory," several long-term relationships emerge among the core characters, including Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) and Amy Farrah Fowler (Mayim Bialik), and Leonard Hofstadter (Johnny Galecki) and Penny (Kaley Cuoco). 

Despite both pairings ending in marriage by the conclusion of the series, fans have often questioned whether or not these couples are best suited for one another. Regarding Sheldon and Amy, when the pair meet in Season 3, their mannerisms and quirks are practically identical. However, Amy eventually wants more from Sheldon, both physically and emotionally, and it takes him years to meet her wishes.

As for Leonard and Penny, they're a prime example of how opposites attract. But sometimes their differences, which they don't always vocalize, are overwhelming. In Season 12, Episode 3, "The Procreation Calculation," the already-married duo discovers their opposing views on children. While having a baby is a longtime dream of Leonard's, Penny doesn't see little Hofstadters in their future.

Given these contrasts, it's possible that the leading characters would've been better suited with other people, ones who they never even considered as potential partners.

Leonard and Amy never get together on "The Big Bang Theory," but if they did, it's likely fans would have supported it. Both crave something more from their significant other — Leonard wants to start a family with Penny, and Amy simply wants to be treated like a true girlfriend by Sheldon. Though both eventually get what they want, it takes much time and heartache. If Leonard and Amy were an item, their relationship likely would've progressed at a much quicker pace. They already had the foundation of a friendship, with Leonard even stepping in to accompany Amy as her wedding date.

They're also more of an equal match-up when it comes to their intellect and respect for one another. While Sheldon often puts down Amy's work in biology, Leonard supports Penny in her acting endeavors and waitressing duties, even though none of it is related to his passion for science. Amy, who tends to have less self-confidence than Penny, could have benefited from Leonard's unwavering support.

This would leave Sheldon free to date Penny, an unlikely pairing that some believe could actually work. On Reddit, u/joe5389 said, "The times either Sheldon or Penny were sick/injured etc and they ended up comforting one another were always way more intimate scenes than any moments that Penny and Leonard ever shared." U/opinionofone1984 jokingly added, "If you combined the intellect of Sheldon with the strength, beauty and street smarts of Penny, [they] would undoubtedly overthrow the human race and enslave us all."