Beverly Hofstader – The Big Bang Theory
Her origin story: The only real background information we have on Leonard’s mother Beverly is what we have gleaned from his childhood memories. We do know she is a brilliant psychiatrist and neuroscientist who often treated Leonard more like a test case than a son.
She is critical, unsympathetic and detached. She put so much pressure on young Leonard that he developed all sorts of neuroses. She is a formidable woman and inspires fear and respect in everyone around her.
Her worst deeds: If you asked Leonard, he would probably say her lack of affection and nurturing. He remembers not having any birthday parties as a child because his parents wanted to celebrate accomplishments, and being “expelled from a birth canal” doesn’t really count as such. She is wildly undermining, making Leonard nervous and unsure in everything he does.
To add insult to psychological injury, Beverly goes on to confide in Sheldon, Leonard’s difficult friend and roommate. She tells Sheldon huge family milestones weeks before she lets Leonard in on, and she has even gone so far to call him “sissy pants” when he expresses any true emotions.
Where to find her: The long running series is still airing new episodes, but not for long. It’s currently filming its final season, so the time to catch up is now. You can purchase episodes on Amazon, or subscribe to the CBS streaming service.