Shelnard

[wellplayedpenny]

I think for me the problem is that Leonard functions best as a reactionary character so in a way it's odd to have someone so passive be the lead. Hence the reason why when Sheldon came along and got into his stride, particularly in the second season, it was natural that he assume command. Now they're trying to give Leonard assertiveness but it comes about as whiny. Why? Because he isn't an assertive character by nature. Where Sheldon is concerned Leonard functions best as an explainer and an accomodator. Someone who, while not understanding why Sheldon does even half of the whacked things he does, nevertheless after a debate at the weekly roommate meetings decides to adjust rather than deal with it. Not every relationship is one of equals but that doesn't mean there can't be genuine affection between the two. As can be seen when Sheldon asks Penny not to hurt Leonard, he is protective of his roommate and friend. Leonard is portrayed as suffering for the 'humor' but there's no way he'd put up with even half of what he went through in the early seasons and the two years previous if he didn't genuinely like Sheldon. That's one thing I do thank Leonard for--unlike Sheldon's previous roommate Leonard gave him a chance and there was definite improvement in Sheldon from when we 'first' see him in The Staircase Implementation to the Pilot episode.

*le sigh* Basically this stupid show could have been so much more. The Shelnard bromance in action is a wonderful thing to watch and like everything else, TPTB ruined it. *pout*