Howard Wolowitz, the lovable and often-cringeworthy aerospace engineer from The Big Bang Theory, meets his tragic end in season eight, episode 24, “The Commitment Determination”. This season finale marked a significant turning point for the show, leaving a lasting impact on its characters and viewers.
Understanding Howard’s Fate: More Than Just an Episode
While the answer to “what episode does Howard die?” is straightforward, understanding the context and the ramifications of his death requires a deeper examination. Howard’s death wasn’t just a plot device; it represented a shift in the series’ tone and a reckoning with the realities of life for its characters.
The Commitment Determination: A Detailed Breakdown
The episode revolves around several major storylines: Sheldon and Amy facing a crucial decision about their relationship, Raj struggling with Lucy’s departure, and Howard and Bernadette grappling with the overwhelming fear that Howard’s upcoming mission to the International Space Station could be his last. It’s this final storyline that leads to the devastating twist. While Howard doesn’t die during his mission, the episode ends with a scene in which Mrs. Wolowitz, Howard’s mother, passes away unexpectedly in her sleep. This loss, while not directly Howard’s death, is a pivotal moment that shapes his character and the trajectory of the show.
The Impact of Mrs. Wolowitz’s Death
Mrs. Wolowitz’s death served as a catalyst for growth and change among the core group. Howard, previously portrayed as somewhat immature and reliant on his mother, was forced to confront grief and responsibility. His friends rallied around him, offering support and helping him navigate this difficult period. This shared experience solidified their bonds and emphasized the importance of their unconventional family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Howard and Mrs. Wolowitz’s Departure
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the events surrounding the tragic episode “The Commitment Determination” and its consequences.
FAQ 1: Did Howard actually go to space in season eight?
Yes, Howard did indeed go to space in season eight. This was a major plot point leading up to “The Commitment Determination.” His mission to the International Space Station was a source of both excitement and anxiety for him and Bernadette.
FAQ 2: Why didn’t the show kill off Howard instead of Mrs. Wolowitz?
The decision to kill off Mrs. Wolowitz rather than Howard was likely influenced by several factors. It allowed the show to explore themes of grief and loss without permanently removing a main character. Additionally, Mrs. Wolowitz’s death created opportunities for character development, particularly for Howard, allowing him to mature and evolve. Killing Howard would have fundamentally altered the dynamics of the group.
FAQ 3: How did Mrs. Wolowitz die in the show?
Mrs. Wolowitz passed away in her sleep. The show never explicitly stated the cause of death, but it was implied to be from natural causes. The sudden and unexpected nature of her passing amplified the emotional impact on the characters and the audience.
FAQ 4: Was the actress who played Mrs. Wolowitz, Carol Ann Susi, also sick in real life?
Yes, the death of Carol Ann Susi, the actress who voiced Mrs. Wolowitz, was a significant factor in the character’s departure from the show. Susi passed away from cancer in November 2014, which led the writers to incorporate her passing into the storyline.
FAQ 5: How did the other characters react to Mrs. Wolowitz’s death?
The other characters were deeply saddened by Mrs. Wolowitz’s death. They offered Howard their support and helped him cope with his grief. The event brought the group closer together, highlighting their strong bond of friendship and mutual support. Sheldon, in particular, struggled with understanding grief and offered his unique, albeit sometimes awkward, form of comfort.
FAQ 6: Did Mrs. Wolowitz’s death change Howard’s personality?
Yes, Mrs. Wolowitz’s death significantly impacted Howard’s personality. While he retained his humor and quirks, he became more mature, responsible, and appreciative of his relationships. He became a more grounded and well-rounded character as he navigated life without his mother’s constant presence.
FAQ 7: How did the writers handle Mrs. Wolowitz’s death in the episodes that followed?
The writers handled Mrs. Wolowitz’s death with sensitivity and respect. They allowed the characters to grieve and adjust to their new reality. Her memory was kept alive through anecdotes and references, ensuring she remained a part of the show’s fabric.
FAQ 8: What lasting effects did Mrs. Wolowitz’s death have on the show’s overall narrative?
Mrs. Wolowitz’s death had several lasting effects on the show’s narrative. It deepened the relationships between the characters, added a layer of realism to the sitcom, and allowed for exploration of complex themes such as grief, loss, and resilience. It also provided opportunities for comedic moments as the characters navigated the challenges of life without Mrs. Wolowitz’s overbearing, yet loving, presence.
FAQ 9: Did Howard and Bernadette ever move out of Mrs. Wolowitz’s house?
Eventually, yes. While the show features much debate and back-and-forth regarding moving out, after Mrs. Wolowitz’s passing, Howard and Bernadette do move out, eventually buying and renovating a house previously owned by Mrs. Wolowitz’s cousin. This move symbolizes their independence and growth as a couple.
FAQ 10: Was there any controversy surrounding the decision to kill off Mrs. Wolowitz?
While there was sadness among fans due to Carol Ann Susi’s passing, the writers’ decision to incorporate her death into the show was generally well-received. Most viewers felt it was a respectful and realistic way to address the loss of the actress. Some criticized the use of the death for comedic purposes in subsequent episodes, but overall, the handling of the situation was considered tasteful.
FAQ 11: What was the most memorable scene following Mrs. Wolowitz’s death?
One of the most memorable scenes is when Howard receives a voicemail from his mother, recorded before her passing, where she expresses her love and gives him instructions on how to care for himself. This scene is particularly poignant and highlights the depth of their relationship.
FAQ 12: How did The Big Bang Theory address the topic of death in other ways throughout the series?
While Mrs. Wolowitz’s death was the most significant and impactful, The Big Bang Theory touched on the topic of death in other, less prominent ways. For example, Sheldon’s Meemaw passed away, and the characters occasionally discussed the inevitability of mortality, often through Sheldon’s unique perspective. However, Mrs. Wolowitz’s passing was undoubtedly the most significant exploration of grief and loss within the show’s narrative.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Mrs. Wolowitz
While Howard Wolowitz doesn’t die in season eight, episode 24, “The Commitment Determination”, the death of his mother, Mrs. Wolowitz, in that episode profoundly impacts his life and the overall storyline of The Big Bang Theory. It’s a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our relationships. The show skillfully navigated this sensitive topic, leaving a lasting impact on viewers and solidifying Mrs. Wolowitz’s place as a beloved, albeit unseen, character.