The hit geek show on CBS, The Big Bang Theory, is ending, the network announced along with Warner Bros., with the reasoning learned because Sheldon-actor Jim Parsons is done with the series following next year’s final season.
“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 series finale, that will bring The Big Bang Theory to an epic creative close,” WBTV and Chuck Lorre Productions said in a joint statement.
It was reported CBS was trying to negotiate with Jim Parsons for two more seasons, but he decided now is a good time to leave. Reportedly, if Parson’s signed the deal, he and his co-stars – Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Kunal Nayyar, and Simon Helberg – would have stood to make more than $50 million, as they get around $1 million an episode.
As, EW.com notes, there is no show without Sheldon, and as the character basically did it all, including getting married at the end of Season 11, so following twelve highly successful years, the actor is allowed to step away.
Big Bang Theory
Jim Parsons has four Emmy wins, one Golden Globe, and is also featured as a voice-over role in the Young Sheldon spinoff.
The Big Bang Theory has been the #1 comedy up until this past year when ABC’s Roseanne revival bumped it from the lead, giving it the #2 spot overall. The show has also earned 52 Emmy nominations with ten wins.
The Big Bang Theory final season kicks off Monday, September 24 on CBS before moving to its regular time period on Thursday, Sept. 27.
“The Big Bang Theory has been the defining comedy of its generation,” CBS Entertainment president Kelly Kahl said in a statement. “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.”
