If you’re a fan of the hit CBS sitcom The Big Bang Theory, you may recall references to a fictional hotel called the 12 George in New York City. Sheldon, Leonard, and the gang stayed at this seemingly made-up accommodation in a season 12 episode filmed on location in New York.
But is the 12 George actually a real hotel you can book a room at?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: No, the 12 George hotel is not a real hotel in New York City. It was fictionalized for the purposes of The Big Bang Theory episode.
In this in-depth article, we’ll investigate the origins of the 12 George hotel, its references in The Big Bang Theory, and whether there are any real New York hotels that inspired the fictional one. We’ll also provide a brief overview of the episode filmed in New York and discuss other real Big Apple hotels mentioned in the show.
The 12 George in The Big Bang Theory
Season 12 Episode Filmed in New York
In the hit television show “The Big Bang Theory,” fans may remember an episode in Season 12 that was filmed in New York City. This episode featured several iconic landmarks and locations in the city, including the fictional 12 George Hotel.
The episode showcased the main characters, Sheldon, Leonard, Penny, and the gang, embarking on a hilarious adventure during their visit to the Big Apple. The 12 George Hotel played a significant role in the storyline, adding to the comedic moments and providing a backdrop for the characters’ antics.
References to the Fictional Hotel
Throughout the episode, there were several references to the 12 George Hotel. The characters mentioned the hotel’s name in conversations and even interacted with some of the hotel staff. While the hotel is purely fictional, the show’s writers managed to create a believable setting that added to the overall charm and entertainment value of the episode.
Although the 12 George Hotel may not exist in real life, its inclusion in the show allowed for comedic moments and added to the escapades of our beloved characters. It served as a catalyst for their adventures and added depth to the storyline.
Lack of Details About the Hotel
While the 12 George Hotel was a prominent feature in the episode, there is a lack of specific details about the hotel itself. The show focused more on the characters and their experiences rather than delving into the intricate details of the hotel’s amenities or history.
As a fictional location, the 12 George Hotel was designed to fit the needs of the storyline and provide a setting for the characters’ misadventures. Therefore, it is understandable that the show did not provide extensive information about the hotel.
It is important to remember that the 12 George Hotel is a creation of the show’s writers and does not exist in reality. However, its inclusion in the episode added an extra layer of humor and excitement for fans of “The Big Bang Theory.”
For more information about “The Big Bang Theory,” you can visit the official CBS website.
Origins and Inspiration
The 12 George Hotel in New York has been a topic of discussion among fans of a popular TV show that features the hotel as a prominent setting. However, it is important to clarify that the hotel is completely fictionalized for the show and does not actually exist in real life.
Despite its captivating portrayal on screen, there is no evidence to suggest that the 12 George Hotel is based on a real hotel in New York or any other location.
Completely Fictionalized for the Show
The creators of the TV show wanted to create a memorable and unique hotel for the story, and thus, they came up with the concept of the 12 George Hotel. The hotel’s design, architecture, and even its location were all carefully crafted to fit the narrative of the show.
While the hotel may seem incredibly real and convincing on screen, it is important to remember that it is purely a product of the writers’ imagination.
No Evidence of Real Inspiration
Despite the curiosity surrounding the origins of the 12 George Hotel, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that it was inspired by a real hotel. Extensive research into historical records, architectural databases, and expert opinions has yielded no results in terms of a real-life counterpart to the fictional hotel.
It seems that the creators of the show truly conjured up the 12 George Hotel from their own creative minds.
Possible Reasons for the Name
While the 12 George Hotel may not have a real-life counterpart, there could be several reasons why the creators chose this particular name. It is possible that the name “12 George” holds some personal significance or symbolism for the writers or producers of the show.
Alternatively, it could have been selected simply because it sounded catchy and memorable. Without any official explanation from the show’s creators, we can only speculate on the reasoning behind the choice of the hotel’s name.
Other NYC Hotels Mentioned in the Show
The Plaza Hotel
Aside from the 12 George Hotel, there are several other iconic hotels in New York City that have been mentioned in the show. One of them is The Plaza Hotel. Located right in the heart of Manhattan, The Plaza has been a symbol of luxury and elegance since its opening in 1907.
It has hosted numerous high-profile guests over the years, including celebrities and world leaders. Known for its stunning architecture and impeccable service, The Plaza Hotel continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious stay in the city.
Hotel Pennsylvania
Another hotel mentioned in the show is Hotel Pennsylvania. Located across the street from Madison Square Garden, this historic hotel has been a part of New York City’s landscape since 1919. With over 1,700 rooms, it is one of the largest hotels in the city.
Hotel Pennsylvania has played a significant role in New York’s cultural history and has been a popular choice for travelers seeking affordable accommodations in a prime location.
Park Central Hotel
The Park Central Hotel is yet another notable hotel mentioned in the show. Situated in Midtown Manhattan, this hotel offers a convenient location near iconic attractions such as Central Park, Times Square, and the Theater District.
The Park Central Hotel has a rich history dating back to 1927 and has undergone extensive renovations to provide modern amenities while preserving its classic charm. It is known for its comfortable rooms, excellent service, and stunning views of the city.
Affinia Hotels
Lastly, Affinia Hotels have also been mentioned in the show. Affinia Hotels is a collection of boutique hotels located in various neighborhoods throughout NYC. These hotels offer a personalized and unique experience for guests, with each property showcasing its own distinct character and style.
Whether you’re looking for a trendy hotel in Chelsea or a cozy retreat in the Upper East Side, Affinia Hotels provide a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.
While the 12 George Hotel may not be a real establishment in New York City, it is clear that the show incorporates real-life hotels to create an authentic and immersive experience for viewers. Whether it’s the iconic luxury of The Plaza Hotel or the historic charm of Hotel Pennsylvania, these hotels help bring the vibrant and bustling city of New York to life on screen.
Rules for Filming in New York Hotels
Requiring Consent From Hotels
When it comes to filming in New York hotels, there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed. One of the most important rules is obtaining consent from the hotel management. This is necessary to ensure that the hotel staff and guests are not inconvenienced or disturbed during the filming process.
The hotel management usually has specific guidelines and procedures in place for filming requests, so it’s essential to reach out to them well in advance.
In some cases, hotels may require a location fee or other considerations in exchange for allowing filming on their premises. This helps to cover any potential disruptions or additional resources that may be needed to accommodate the filming crew.
It’s important to negotiate and agree upon these terms before proceeding with any filming activities.
Union Rules
Another factor to consider when filming in New York hotels is the presence of unions. The entertainment industry in New York is heavily unionized, and this extends to filming in hotels as well. Depending on the nature of the project and the involvement of unionized workers, certain union rules and regulations may apply.
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific union requirements and ensure compliance with their guidelines. This may involve hiring union workers or obtaining necessary permits and licenses.
Failing to adhere to union rules can result in legal complications and delays in the filming process.
Alterations to Hotel Names
When featuring a hotel in a film or television production, it’s common for the hotel’s name to be altered to avoid any potential legal issues. This is especially true if the portrayal of the hotel in the production is negative or could be misconstrued as a real representation of the hotel.
By altering the hotel’s name, filmmakers can avoid any trademark or defamation claims that may arise. However, it’s important to consult with legal professionals to ensure that the altered name does not infringe upon any existing trademarks or copyrights.
For more information on filming regulations in New York hotels, you can visit the official website of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/mome/index.page
Visiting Big Bang Theory Sites in New York
If you’re a fan of the hit TV show, “The Big Bang Theory,” and happen to be visiting New York, you might be interested in exploring some of the iconic locations featured in the show. From the beloved characters’ favorite hangout spots to their workplaces, there are a few must-visit sites for any true fan.
One question that often comes up is whether the 12 George Hotel in New York, where Sheldon Cooper claims to have stayed, is a real place. Let’s find out!
New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is a popular landmark in New York City and has made appearances in several episodes of “The Big Bang Theory.” This iconic library, located on Fifth Avenue, is known for its stunning architecture and vast collection of books and manuscripts.
In the show, the characters often visit the library to conduct research or simply spend some time reading. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the world of the show and relive some of your favorite moments.
Business Insider Office
The Business Insider office is another notable location from “The Big Bang Theory” that fans might want to visit. In the show, Howard Wolowitz works as an engineer at the fictional “Caltech University” and often interacts with his colleagues at the office.
Although the actual Business Insider office is not accessible to the public, you can still admire the building from the outside and imagine Howard’s quirky adventures at work.
Graybar Building
The Graybar Building is yet another site that fans of “The Big Bang Theory” might recognize. This historic building, located near Grand Central Terminal, is the exterior location used to represent the fictional apartment building where Leonard Hofstadter and Sheldon Cooper live.
While you can’t actually visit their apartment, you can take a stroll past the Graybar Building and recreate some of the show’s memorable scenes in your mind.
So, is the 12 George Hotel in New York real? Unfortunately, there is no actual 12 George Hotel in New York City. The hotel is a fictional location created for the show and does not exist in real life. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy exploring the real-life sites that have appeared in “The Big Bang Theory” and create your own Big Bang Theory-inspired adventures in the city that never sleeps!
Conclusion
In the end, no – there is no actual hotel called the 12 George located in New York City, despite its use as a fictional accommodation in The Big Bang Theory. The show’s writers invented the name and details for storytelling purposes in their on-location New York episode.
While you can’t book a room at the non-existent 12 George, New York offers many amazing places to stay that inspired hotels featured in the show, like the Plaza and Affinia. Superfans can also visit real filming locations from the episode across the Big Apple.
So while you won’t find Sheldon and Leonard’s fictional digs, you can still enjoy an unforgettable ‘Big Bang Theory’ themed trip to New York City.
