Television’s most popular sitcom, The Big Bang Theory, is finally coming to a close after 12 seasons on CBS.
A joint statement from Warner Bros., Chuch Lorre Productions, and CBS reads,
“We are forever grateful to our fans for their support of The Big Bang Theory during the past twelve seasons. We, along with the cast, writers and crew, are extremely appreciative of the show’s success and aim to deliver a final season, and the series finale, that will bring The Big Bang Theory to an epic creative close.”
CBS Entertainment head added, “‘The Big Bang Theory’ has been the defining comedy of its generation. All of us at the Network take exceptional pride in this series that uniquely combines creative genius, commercial ratings success, cultural influence and characters who became so popular, they are easily known by just one name. We’re incredibly grateful for our partnership with Warner Bros., Chuck Lorre Productions and a brilliant cast and crew that has made such a ‘big bang’ and lasting legacy on the television landscape.”
The decision to end the show came as a surprise to fans, seeing as the show still performs exceedingly well across the entire cable TV landscape. Reportedly, though, the choice has nothing to do with ratings and more to do with timing. The main cast’s contracts with CBS will expire with the upcoming season, and people on both sides aren’t too keen on negotiating new ones in order to keep the show alive. It’s been reported that the series’ original five cast members took pay cuts to allow castmates Melissa Rauch and Mayim Bialik to receive raises.
The Big Bang Theory star Jim Parsons was also alluding to leaving the show sometime soon, which would have changed the entire foundation of the show and created a hefty workload for everyone involved. The consensus was eventually reached that the show should end while still in a good place.
The final season of The Big Bang Theory will premiere Sep. 24th on CBS.
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