Heart-breaking The Big Bang Theory conspiracy claims Howard’s mum died and their phone calls were all in his head

THE Big Bang Theory fans think they’ve got to grips with Howard Wolowitz’s backstory – and it’s nothing short of tragic.

Since the sitcom wrapped earlier this year the fandom have been more active than ever, sniffing out all manner of plot holes and continuity errors from the 12-year run.

Aside from the gaffe spotting, others have cooked up conspiracy theories that offer fresh insights into the show’s protagonists.

The latest is about Howard’s (Simon Helberg) relationship with his mother – who is made the butt of countless cruel joked due to her alleged size.

We say alleged because at no point is Debbie Wolowitz seen on screen, she is only ever heard over the phone.

The character made her last appearance in 2014 after voice actress Carol Ann Susi sadly passed away.

Bosses decided to write Debbie out of the show rather than recast her, acknowledging that any successor would have impossible shoes to fill.

However, a Reddit thread started by user Pick234 has a completely different perspective.

The theory draws parallels with iconic horror film Psycho, claiming that since nobody else interacts with Debbie, she could merely be a fragment of Howard’s imagination and have died years earlier.

“Small theory here, Howard’s mom doesn’t exist, he is just crazy and lonely and uses ventriloquism to speak for her,” they wrote.

“Also all of his friends like him so much and either a) believe him or b) don’t want to break it to him that she isn’t there, either out of love or fear that he would snap.”

Since viewers are treated to appearances from most of the other characters’ parents, Debbie’s absence throughout 279 episodes does seem notable.

What’s more, could Howard’s magic and ventriloquism skills have fed into the idea of his mother’s disembodied voice?

Seeing as the post receive plenty of upvotes, clearly there are plenty of people willing to be on board with the idea.

Elsewhere, fans previously noticed something was amiss with the apartment’s elevator.

Meanwhile an aerial shot called the location of the nearby gas station into question.

The Big Bang Theory season 12 is available to stream on Netflix.