Despite receiving criticism for its predictable humor and reliance on cheap jokes, 2 Broke Girls quickly became a fan favorite. The undeniable chemistry between lead actresses Beth Behrs and Kat Dennings kept viewers coming back, making their dynamic one of the most entertaining aspects of the show.
Though 2 Broke Girls wrapped up after six seasons, it remains a beloved sitcom. The story follows Max Black (Kat Dennings), who grew up struggling financially, and Caroline Channing (Beth Behrs), a privileged woman who lost everything after her father’s financial scandal. The two become unlikely roommates and work together at a Brooklyn diner while saving up to launch their own cupcake business.
The show gave both Dennings and Behrs a career boost, and their real-life friendship added authenticity to their performances. While the sitcom had its predictable moments, the witty writing, clever jokes, and unforgettable side characters set it apart from similar series. 2 Broke Girls even earned 12 Emmy nominations, proving its impact despite its divisive reception.
Best Friends in Real Life
What made 2 Broke Girls special was the real-life friendship between its two leading ladies. Beth Behrs and Kat Dennings formed a close bond off-screen, which made their on-screen chemistry feel even more natural. In a 2013 interview with ET Online, Dennings confirmed this, saying, “Beth and I genuinely love each other and are best friends in real life, and that probably reads. It’s not like we’re faking that we love each other—we really do.”
Their friendship extended beyond the show. In 2018, when Behrs married actor Michael Gladis, Dennings was by her side as a bridesmaid, proving their connection remained strong even after the show ended.
Controversy and Criticism
Like many comedies, 2 Broke Girls faced criticism for its use of offensive humor. Some viewers felt that the show relied too heavily on sexual jokes, drug references, and racial stereotypes. One of the most controversial aspects was the portrayal of Han Lee, the Korean diner owner played by Matthew Moy. Critics argued that Han’s exaggerated accent and mannerisms reinforced harmful stereotypes about Asian men, sparking debates about racial representation in sitcoms. Moy, however, defended the show’s humor, stating, “The comedy on 2 Broke Girls always comes from a place of love—it’s never mean. I’ve encountered this all my life. I’ve been made fun of all my life.”
Kat Dennings’ Lifestyle vs. Max Black
Fans of the show might be surprised to learn that Kat Dennings’ real-life lifestyle is the opposite of her character Max Black. While Max was often portrayed as a hard-partying, tough-talking woman who indulged in drinking and drugs, Dennings is sober, avoids alcohol and drugs, and prefers quiet activities like reading and knitting. In an interview with Glamour, she compared being around intoxicated people to “watching someone jump out of a plane without a parachute.”
A Pizza-Fueled Goodbye
When 2 Broke Girls was canceled in May 2017, Dennings and Behrs didn’t let the news ruin their spirits. Instead, they threw a farewell pizza party. Dennings shared with Yahoo! Movies, “We had a wine and pizza explosion at Beth’s house, where we ate and drank everything in sight, basically. It was actually great!”
Why 2 Broke Girls Ended
The cancellation of 2 Broke Girls after six seasons wasn’t solely due to ratings. While viewership had declined, CBS was also restructuring its lineup, prioritizing shows it had greater ownership over. The network needed to make room for three new sitcoms in its 2017 fall schedule, ultimately leading to the show’s end.
What Could Have Been: Cher as Max’s Mom
Had 2 Broke Girls received another season, the producers had an exciting guest star in mind—Cher! There were discussions about having the music icon play Max’s mother, which would have added an intriguing twist. Unfortunately, fans never got to see this legendary casting happen.
The Struggle of Caroline’s Heels
Fans often pointed out the unrealistic fashion choices of 2 Broke Girls, particularly Caroline’s signature high heels. Many joked that no waitress would ever wear 7-inch Louboutin heels to work, no matter how stylish they were. Beth Behrs herself acknowledged the struggle, even sharing a hilarious Instagram photo in 2014, highlighting the painful reality of filming in such footwear. In the caption, she wrote, “7-inch Louboutins + physical comedy + episode 21 = lotsa this. And lotsa [Epsom] salt baths—which I will not post photos of.”
Fun Facts About 2 Broke Girls
Fans of the show might not know that every episode title starts with the word “And,” except for the pilot episode. The show was even adapted into a Russian version with characters named Olya and Margo replacing Max and Caroline, but the remake only lasted three seasons.
Additionally, both Kat Dennings and Beth Behrs appeared in every single episode, making them the only cast members to do so.
Big Paychecks from Syndication
2 Broke Girls may be over, but its financial success lives on. The show was sold into syndication for a whopping $1.7 million per episode, with TBS acquiring the rights. With 138 episodes in total, this deal brought in hundreds of millions of dollars. Dennings and Behrs continue to earn money every time a rerun airs, thanks to syndication deals. Dennings, whose acting career began with a potato chip commercial, has since amassed a $25 million net worth, while Behrs has built a fortune of $20 million.
A Possible Reunion?
Could 2 Broke Girls make a comeback? Kat Dennings seems open to the idea. In a 2019 interview with PEOPLE Now, she excitedly said, “Oh my god, I would. I don’t think anyone has ever … broached that topic with me. I would! I think it would be fun, like a reunion!” While there are no official plans for a revival, one thing is certain—Max and Caroline’s friendship would still be as strong as ever.
Did you enjoy watching 2 Broke Girls? Share this fun fact with your friends and let them in on the surprising success behind the scenes!
