08-16-2014, 01:30 AM
I think it was more that the writers had a choice whether to go with a Data/Spock type, and chose instead to go for idiot cartoon, with Sheldon. Dignity was the first casualty, and JP was keen to embrace dropping his trousers for a huge paycheck, rather than creating an actual character.
Kiddie characters, particularly ubergenius ones, are generally a pain in the ass Mary Sue/Gary Stu type, by their very nature. Wesley was meant to be obnoxious and need of a reality check, but that doesn't make for a character that anyone likes or wants to watch, unless it is to see them brought down/broken. (Which, again, Sheldon.)
Kiddie characters, particularly ubergenius ones, are generally a pain in the ass Mary Sue/Gary Stu type, by their very nature. Wesley was meant to be obnoxious and need of a reality check, but that doesn't make for a character that anyone likes or wants to watch, unless it is to see them brought down/broken. (Which, again, Sheldon.)