Carol Ann Susi, who is best known for voicing Mrs. Wolowitz on CBS’s The Big Bang Theory, died early Tuesday morning after battling cancer. She was 62. Warner Bros. Television and Big Bang Theory producers Chuck Lorre, Steve Molaro and Bill Prady released a statement honoring her.
“The Big Bang Theory family has lost a beloved member today with the passing of Carol Ann Susi, who hilariously and memorably voiced the role of Mrs. Wolowitz,” the statement read. “Unseen by viewers, the Mrs. Wolowitz character became a bit of a mystery throughout the show’s eight seasons. What was not a mystery, however, was Carol Ann’s immense talent and comedic timing, which were on display during each unforgettable appearance. In addition to her talent, Carol Ann was a constant source of joy and kindness to all. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with her family during this time, and we will miss her greatly.”
Mrs. Wolowitz was rarely seen on-screen — though eagle-eyed viewers caught a glimpse of the portly pink-clad parent at Howard’s (Simon Helberg) wedding in the fifth season finale.
“The glimpse on the rooftop is all you’re going to get for now!” Molaro told The Hollywood Reporter at the time. “Isn’t she better left to the imagination? There are no plans to actually see her on camera and I think it’s probably better that way.”
It is unclear how Susi’s passing will impact the show, though it is worth noting Melissa Rauch (Bernadette) does a spot-on impression of her character. Mrs. Wolowitz has had a central storyline this season, in which the gang’s friend Stewart (Kevin Sussman) moves in with Mrs. Wolowitz to nurse her through her declining health. Howard becomes jealous, thinking Stewart has replaced him in his mother’s heart.
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