Steven Paul Lieva writes in the LA Times blogs about being a fanboy of The Big Bang Theory. I'm a fanboy myself.
In the face of all that, I would like to put forth the modest suggestion that scientists, as a group, are just as sane and socially capable as any other group of people. Which makes it a wry twist, I suppose, that I would also like to propose that the hit CBS sitcom "The Big Bang Theory" is the finest and best fictional portrayal of scientists in any current media -- and a series that is carving out a spot for itself in the annals of television comedy.
Hear, hear! I actually know a few socially-capable scientists at work!
The writers of the series have sculpted full portraits of their characters and polished them with a giddy exploitation of their human frailties as well as compassion for them. Leonard, Sheldon, Howard and Rajesh have become completely relatable to the large audience; some of the audience, of course, may connect to the nerd factor, but certainly not all.
My wife has even gotten into the show, and we've evangelized a few of our friends into fans, as well. I do have one hold-out of a friend, who doesn't seem to find the show very humorous.
The article has some great photos of the cast, check it out!
Update: the science advisor for the show has a blog, too!