Jim Parsons is going to hear his name a lot at the Emmys–the versatile, inspirational actor is nominated for two different roles that are as different as helium and kryptonite. At least that’s a comparison Sheldon Cooper might make on The Big Bang Theory. Parsons just got a little pay raise to bring the laughs as Sheldon, but the actor is still a steal at $1 million per episode. The Big Bang Theory is the most popular half-hour on TV. That other nomination?
That’s for embodying Tommy Boatwright in a heart-rending, emotionally devastating performance in the TV adaptation of Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart. If Parsons walks off with both awards, it’ll be some kind of record for diversity of roles winning Emmys in a single night by the same actor. (Parsons has already won three Emmys for portraying Sheldon, so perhaps he’s rooting for Tommy.) Chuck Lorre, creator of The Big Bang Theory (and also the durably successful Two and a Half Men), knows about having stars in his midst who insist they are “winning.” It must be great to look over at the sturdy Jim Parsons and see somebody who definitely is.
