Bernadette Rostenkowski

Dr. Bernadette Maryann Rostenkowski is a waitress and co-worker of Penny at the Cheesecake Factory, which pays the way for her graduate studies in microbiology. A recurring joke on the series is reference to Bernadette handling infectious biological specimens before preparing food or making physical contact with people, which eventually results in her and her entire research team spending New Year's Eve 2010 in quarantine. She is of Catholic upbringing, having gone a Catholic school - she admits that she cannot lie very well because, according to her, the teachers "whip the lying out of you" - and is frequently seen wearing a cross necklace. Bernadette is introduced to Howard by Penny after he invoked the Girlfriend Pact. At first, she and Howard do not get along, as they appear to have nothing in common. When they find out that they both have overbearing mothers, they feel a connection. Subsequently, Howard realizes Bernadette presents a real opportunity to develop a lasting relationship, and, in an impulsive manner, he proposes to her. Although Bernadette rejects his offer, they remain a couple for a time after Howard sings a heartfelt song for her at the Cheesecake Factory, which Penny finds quite embarrassing, but Bernadette finds romantic.
Bernadette Rostenkowski is portrayed by Melissa Rauch.