"Charlie's not your conventional mathematician... we sexed him up a little bit"
About this Quote
The quote by David Krumholtz, "Charlie's not your conventional mathematician ... we sexed him up a bit", highlights a crossway in between Hollywood's portrayal of characters and societal understandings of specific professions. The statement describes Charlie Eppes, a character from the television program "Numb3rs", in which Krumholtz played a genius mathematician who uses his skills to solve criminal activities.
Generally, mathematicians are often stereotyped in media as socially uncomfortable, shy, and more worried with abstract mathematical issues than with real-world interactions. They are rarely depicted as charismatic or stylish, typically embodying a more old-school, 'geeky' stereotype. This perception is deeply entrenched in popular culture, where the visual and individual appeal of mathematicians are consistently ignored in favor of their intellectual qualities.
In saying "we sexed him up a bit", Krumholtz mentions how the character of Charlie was crafted to diverge from these stereotypes. This might indicate that Charlie's character was given traits typically connected with sex appeal, perhaps in terms of physical appearance, design, or confidence. By doing so, the developers of "Numb3rs" intended to make mathematics and those who practice it more available and relatable to a basic audience.
This approach might have served several functions. Firstly, it could assist demystify the field of mathematics, providing it as an interesting and dynamic discipline rather than a simply scholastic pursuit. Second of all, by portraying mathematicians as relatable and enticing characters, the show may have challenged audiences to reassess their preconceived notions about the type of individuals who excel in mathematics.
Krumholtz's remark humorously acknowledges the entertainment industry's tendency to adjust reality for significant impact, therefore making subjects and characters more appealing for audiences. It acknowledges the balance that artists strike between authenticity and the requirement to engage and entertain, ultimately encouraging audiences to widen their understanding of both the discipline of mathematics and those who master it.
