When Bert, a Caltech geologist, wins the MacArthur Genius fellowship, Sheldon is overcome with jealousy. Also, Wolowitz finds an old remote control Stephen Hawking action figure he invented.

After more than nine years together, the gang finally celebrates Sheldon’s birthday, surprising him with a special guest.

Leonard and Sheldon publish a paper which is widely accepted except for comments from an internet troll. Meanwhile, the girls reminisce about embarrassing incidents from their past.

Sheldon faces a personal crisis after deciding he’s wasting his time with string theory. Meanwhile, a double date between Raj, Emily and the Wolowitzes ends in embarrassment for Howard.

Sheldon’s relationship with Stephen Hawking is threatened over a game of “Words with Friends,” and Penny secretly enrolls in a class at the local college.

When Wolowitz gets to work with Stephen Hawking, Sheldon is willing to do anything to meet his hero.