8. Carol Ann Susi: Then
Although the name of Carol Ann Susi’s character is Debbie Melvina Wolowitz, most audiences know her simply as “Ma.” That’s how Howard refers to her, usually shouting it at the top of his lungs. The best part about Susi’s role is that she is almost invisible on the set. The only thing audiences know of her is a New Jersey accent often heard from off-camera, directed at Howard. Debbie is the overbearing mother sort, who treats Howard like a child despite his prestigious education from MIT and his fancy career. Over the years, audiences have had glimpses of the woman affectionately called “Ma,” but reminiscent of Wilson from the show Home Improvement, they’ve never had clear views of her face.