Simon Helberg Says He Was ‘Paralyzed By Fear and Anxiety’ During Height of “Big Bang Theory” Fame

**Simon Helberg Opens Up on Anxiety During ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Success**

Simon Helberg, best known for his role as Howard Wolowitz on the hit sitcom “The Big Bang Theory,” has shared insights into the personal struggles he faced during the show’s incredible rise to fame. The comedian and actor, who portrayed the quirky aerospace engineer from 2007 until the series concluded in 2019, opened up about his experiences in a recent episode of the podcast “Dinner’s On Me” hosted by Jesse Tyler Ferguson.

In an honest discussion, the 45-year-old reflected on the overwhelming anxiety that plagued him throughout the show’s successful run. “I was, I would say, pretty paralyzed with fear and anxiety for like the first eight or nine years,” Helberg confessed, shedding light on the mental health challenges that accompanied his newfound stardom.

Ferguson probed Helberg on whether the stress stemmed from the responsibilities of his role or the loss of anonymity that came with fame. Helberg admitted that both factors contributed to his turmoil. “I just ran very hot, just very nervous, very, very anxiety-ridden,” he explained, articulating the pressures he faced as the series gained traction.

The actor elaborated on the intense expectations that success brings. “With the success came just the pressure, and also then, the expectation that it would be just, sort of, like a walk in the park,” Helberg noted. He contrasted this perception with his lived experience, which was filled with constant anxiety and fear. “I just always felt like I was going to kind of fall apart,” he added.

Helberg’s journey through this emotional landscape led him to moments of desperation. “There was like a certainly like a low point of just kind of seizing up,” he recalled, revealing that he sought help from multiple therapists and tried various medications in an effort to manage his anxiety. However, he described those attempts as less than fruitful, stating simply, “it was not great.”

In addition to his struggles during “The Big Bang Theory,” Helberg has previously spoken about his ongoing battle with anxiety in multiple interviews. In a 2016 conversation with ABC, he described himself as “constantly bubbling over with anxiety and fear and excitement and all of that stuff”, reinforcing the persistent nature of his mental health challenges.

Interestingly, Helberg revealed that he received advice from acclaimed actress Meryl Streep while working together on the film “Florence Foster Jenkins.” During a particularly challenging scene that required him to laugh hysterically, Helberg felt intense pressure and fear. Streep’s guidance, although initially frustrating, proved helpful. “Her answer was always really frustrating,” he quipped. “Because it was like, ‘Oh, I just believed it. I just was laughing.'” Ultimately, Streep suggested that if he struggled to laugh, he should try crying first—a tip that stuck with Helberg.

Balancing his career and family life has played a vital role in Helberg’s support system. He has been married to Jocelyn Towne since 2007, and the couple shares two children, a daughter named Adeline and a son named Wilder. Amid the pressures of his acting career, Helberg finds solace in his family, who offer a grounding presence.

As conversations around mental health become more prominent in society, Helberg’s candid reflections contribute to the ongoing discourse about the pressures faced by those in the public eye. By sharing his experiences, he hopes to raise awareness and normalise discussions surrounding anxiety, particularly in the entertainment industry.

Helberg’s journey illustrates the complex relationship between success and mental health. Despite the accolades and fame that accompany a prominent role in a beloved television series, the emotional challenges can often remain unseen. His story serves as a reminder that behind the laughter and applause, there can be an ongoing struggle with anxiety and fear.

As Helberg continues to navigate life after “The Big Bang Theory,” he exemplifies the importance of seeking help and talking openly about mental health, inspiring others who may be facing similar challenges.