Caltech, a renowned scientific institution, has a surprising connection to Hollywood. While it’s known for groundbreaking research and brilliant minds, Caltech has also served as a backdrop and inspiration for numerous film and television productions. This article explores Caltech’s presence in the entertainment industry, addressing the common question, “Who Played Alex On Big Bang Theory?”, while also delving into other notable appearances and contributions.
Caltech’s Star Turn: More Than Just a Backdrop
While “The Big Bang Theory” didn’t feature a character named Alex, the show heavily relied on Caltech for authenticity. The series, centered around a group of Caltech physicists, filmed episodes at the Athenaeum and Caltech-owned residences. This frequent use of Caltech locations highlights the institution’s integral role in portraying the lives of these fictional scientists.
Beyond “The Big Bang Theory,” Caltech’s campus and facilities have made appearances in a wide range of productions. The “Do Not Push” episode of “Modern Family” saw Alex Dunphy, played by Ariel Winter, visiting Caltech. Other notable shows and movies filmed at Caltech include:
- Numb3rs: This CBS drama, centered around a mathematical genius at the fictional CalSci (inspired by Caltech), filmed extensively on campus and even consulted with Caltech Professor of Mathematics, Emeritus, Gary Lorden.
- Interstellar: Caltech’s own Kip Thorne, Richard P. Feynman Professor of Theoretical Physics, Emeritus, served as an executive producer on this Academy Award-winning film.
- Real Genius: This 1985 comedy, while not filmed at Caltech, drew inspiration from a Caltech undergraduate for its main character and created a fictional university strikingly similar to Caltech.
Caltech’s influence extends beyond providing locations. Its faculty and researchers often serve as scientific advisors, lending their expertise to productions such as:
- Moneyball
- Contact
- Angels & Demons
- TRON: Legacy
- Thor
- Big Hero 6
Caltech Alumni in Hollywood: Behind the Scenes
Caltech’s contribution to the entertainment industry goes beyond its physical presence. Alumni have made significant contributions behind the scenes:
- Frank Capra (BS ’18): Director, writer, and producer of classics like “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
- Ray Feeney (BS ’75): Six-time Academy Award recipient for pioneering work in visual effects, including motion-control cameras and blue-screen technology.
- Mark Meyer (MS ’00, PhD ’04): Senior scientist at Pixar Animation Studios, specializing in character articulation and contributing to films like “Brave.”
Caltech’s involvement even extends to documentaries and non-fiction projects like “Through the Wormhole” and “Quantum Hoops,” further showcasing its diverse influence on the entertainment landscape. Even a short film starring Paul Rudd and Stephen Hawking, narrated by Keanu Reeves and directed by Alex Winter, has ties to Caltech through producer Spiros Michalakis.
Caltech and Hollywood: A Symbiotic Relationship
Caltech’s relationship with Hollywood is mutually beneficial. Film and television productions gain authenticity and access to scientific expertise, while Caltech’s presence in popular culture raises its profile and inspires future generations of scientists and engineers. Though “The Big Bang Theory” didn’t have a character named Alex, the show, along with numerous other productions, highlights the strong and enduring connection between Caltech and the entertainment industry.
