If by "normal folk" you mean people who know nothing about science, I don't think the show makes any difference. Scientists are already perceived to be "nerds" or "geeks".
For those of us who understand something about science, technology, etc. it's a funny show that talks our language!
What is "normal" these days, anyway? TV is full of "normal" people on crappy reality shows. I'd rather be like Sheldon (and some say I am!
)