John Ross Bowie

John Ross Bowie plays Barry Kripke in The Big Bang Theory. Kripke is a useful irritant to Sheldon: a colleague who can compete with him professionally and is quite happy to make the encounter unpleasant. Bowie gives the character a relaxed confidence that makes Sheldon's reactions funnier.

His other major sitcom role is Jimmy DiMeo, the father in Speechless. Bowie also has a background in sketch comedy and improvisation, including work with the Upright Citizens Brigade. His television appearances include John Fowler in Curb Your Enthusiasm, an attorney in Heroes and Alan in The Rookie.

Alongside acting, Bowie has written the memoir No Job for a Man and a book about the film Heathers. He has also developed comedy projects with Kevin Sussman, his fellow Big Bang Theory cast member.