'The Big Bang Theory' Star Has a Priceless Comeback to ‘Bazinga' Requests
Jim Parsons has a playful response when fans ask him about his iconic The Big Bang Theory character.
The award-winning actor rose to global fame in the 2000s after landing the role of Sheldon Cooper, the eccentric genius theoretical physicist who became one of the series' most recognizable characters.
Despite the show ending in 2019, the 53-year-old actor is still recognized for his role and would often be asked about one thing.
In an interview with Cosmopolitan, Parsons, who appeared as a guest alongside Titanique co-stars Melissa Barrera and Frankie Grande, revealed why he refuses to say his iconic catchphrase.
When asked how he feels when fans shout "Bazinga" at him in public, the actor playfully said, "I keep walking" and would sometimes pretend that he did not hear it.
Parsons was asked by the host if he had never replied or shouted back, to which he responded, "I get asked to say it sometimes, but I just say ‘you don't have enough money'" prompting his co-stars and everyone at the studio to laugh.
Although he kept things lighthearted, the comment section had mixed reactions regarding Jim Parsons' reply.
@cosmopolitan $$ or no "bazinga" for you! #TheBigBangTheory#sheldoncooper#JimParsons#GroupTherapy
♬ original sound - Cosmopolitan
"I would totally understand, but I would be disappointed," one wrote.
"It should be the ultimate compliment, it means u made it in life big," a commenter said.
A follower posted a bold reaction, noting, "The money comment was unnecessary."
Meanwhile, one fan responded with a more neutral take, writing "Bazinga is so iconic tho!! I think if he said it back, that would be so fire!!"
As for others, they totally understand Parsons' comment and agree with his stance.
"Lol, people don't see actors as people. They get paid to say these things, why would they do it for free at our beck and call," a TikTok user pointed out.
The same goes for another who said, "Just because he's famous for being Sheldon doesn't mean he has to let people yell random lines at him on the street or ask him to say lines for the rest of his life."
The same goes for another who said, "Nothing is going to make me hate you, Sheldon Cooper."
"Bazinga" is Sheldon Cooper's signature catchphrase and is mostly used to point out a prank, joke or sarcastic remark. Basically, "gotcha" or "fooled you" is a more conversational term.
In a 2014 interview with AOL, Parsons revealed that it originated as an inside joke among the show's writers, specifically writer Stephen Engel.
"I remember it wasn't in the script. It was one of those moments when we work on a scene and then you go and take notes from the producers and writers. It was inserted right before taping. Basically, it was like ‘that would work here, what if he said ‘bazinga' after that."
Lo and behold, it was one of The Big Bang Theory's many iconic moments.
Related: ‘Big Bang Theory' Star Sparks Nostalgia After Sharing Rare Photos
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This story was originally published April 21, 2026 at 7:22 PM.