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​Sheldon From 'The Big Bang Theory' Voted Funniest TV Character

​Sheldon From 'The Big Bang Theory' Voted Funniest TV Character

The general public have spoken, crowning socially-awkward scientist Sheldon Cooper as their TV champ ahead of the likes of Homer Simpson.

Jess Hardiman

Jess Hardiman

The Big Bang Theory's Sheldon has been voted the funniest TV character currently on TV, surprisingly pipping some very big-name favourites to the title.

The Ranker survey asked users to vote for the funniest TV characters on air 'right at this very moment'.

"This is your chance to vote up the small screen characters you truly believe are the funniest on the tube in 2016-2017," the site said.

Ranker also outlined the official rules: "Vote up the characters that make you laugh - either with them or at them. Must be from shows on TV or streaming that are either in season or expected to return."

And in the number one spot is Sheldon Cooper from CBS sitcom The Big Bang Theory, which revolves around a gang of nerdy, socially-awkward scientists living in Pasadena, California as they navigate careers and relationships - and occasionally hang out in the comic book store.

Perhaps somewhat shockingly, he's beaten runner up Peter Griffin from Family Guy, as well as South Park's Eric Cartman in third place.

via GIPHY

The rest of the top 10 also featured, in descending order, Modern Family's Phil Dunphy, Family Guy's Stewie Griffin, The Simpsons patriarch Homer, Archer protagonist Sterling Archer, Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Detective Jake Peralta, Charlie Kelly from It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Tyrion Lannister from Game of Thrones.

Quite the mixed bag in there - but arguably none are more divisive than the socially-awkward scientist played by Jim Parsons.

For years The Big Bang Theory has separated its viewers. Some people have continued to enjoy its trademark sci-fi banter during its 11 seasons, while others have grown bored of the format, calling for show creators to make the cull.

And the same goes for Sheldon, whose intentionally difficult persona is a hit with many, but just straight-up annoying to others as you can see on social media.

Twitter
Twitter
Twitter
Twitter

The series became popular not just from the catchy theme song written and recorded by Canadian alt-rock band Barenaked Ladies, but also because of its many references to the cult science fiction and fantasy world.

But recently actor Johnny Galecki - who plays experimental physicist Dr Leonard Hofstadter - revealed that the end could be in sight for the programme.

Appearing at the Television Critics Association winter press tour in Pasadena, he said: "The only manner in which the cast has discussed wrapping [The Big Bang Theory] has been that we're all going to be very sad when that day comes.

"But I think at this point everyone's very comfortable with 12 seasons being a good time to go home and see our families."

Sounds like the decision's been made, to be honest. Although, who knows what show bosses will think after they find out Sheldon's still resonating with the people...

Featured Image Credit: Warner Bros / The Big Bang Theory

Topics: TV and Film, the simpsons, the big bang theory, Big Bang Theory, Comedy, TV, South Park, Family Guy