The main ensemble of “The Big Bang Theory” serves as the definitive source for all things related to nerd culture. Their involvement in the series lends added credibility to both the characters and the actors portraying them. While mentions of “Battlestar Galactica” are woven into their appearances, the dialogue primarily highlights Katee Sackhoff as Howard Wolowitz’s (played by Simon Helberg) guiding voice, particularly as he navigates his emotions towards Bernadette (portrayed by Melissa Rauch). This effectively integrates Sackhoff into the storyline, capturing the interest of viewers who might not be familiar with “Battlestar Galactica.” Although Sackhoff was eager to introduce “Battlestar Galactica” to the “The Big Bang Theory” viewers, one particular episode left her quite anxious, largely due to a significant costume decision.

The core cast of “The Big Bang Theory” act as the authority for all things nerd culture. So being on the show does add extra legitimacy to these characters and the actors who have brought them to life. While “Battlestar Galactica” references are tossed into these appearances, the dialogue mainly focuses on Sackhoff being Howard Wolowitz’s (Simon Helberg) voice of reason as he struggles with his feelings for Bernadette (Melissa Rauch). This grounds Sackhoff within the episode’s plot while grabbing the attention of non-“Battlestar Galactica” fans. Although Sackhoff was thrilled to bring “Battlestar Galactica” to “The Big Bang Theory” audience, one appearance made her super nervous, and it was all because of one big costume choice. 

Kara “Starbuck” Thrace is the Viper pilot who stole scenes throughout the 2000s version of “Battlestar Galactica.” Given Howard’s love for both Katee Sackhoff and her “Battlestar Galactica” role, it only made sense that she would wear her iconic flight suit during his dream in Season 4, Episode 4, “The Hot Troll Deviation.” However, the suit only appeared on the show because Sackhoff stole it from the “Battlestar Galactica” set. “I was so nervous because I was like, “Oh my god, they’re going to find out I stole my flight suit,” she said during a July 2025 episode of “The Sackhoff Show”. While Sackhoff was contemplating this risky decision, she received solidarity from fellow guest star and “Star Trek” legend George Takei, who also took a similar risk with a famous piece of Sulu’s outfit. “And he goes, ‘Honey, I stole this cape, too.’ So, I was like, ‘Okay, cool.’”

While Sackhoff’s “Battlestar Galactica” role brought her fame and the chance to appear on “The Big Bang Theory” with Takei, she didn’t always envision herself on the science fiction series. During Season 2 of the “Portrait of a Fangirl” podcast, she explained, “I wasn’t a fan of ‘Battlestar’ and I didn’t know the original series, but just the fact that you’re sitting in a spaceship and this make-believe that I get to do? It just blows my mind.” She added that her love for science fiction came from her father, who also loved the genre, and now she gets to put her own stamp on the space, which has led to her joining the sci-fi zeitgeist.