It may have all started with the Big Bang, but who knows when (or if) it's going to end. CBS's blockbuster comedy, The Big Bang Theory, has been renewed for three more seasons, and will run through at least 2017.
In its seventh season, the sitcom has logged its highest ratings to date, averaging 19.79 million viewers according to Variety.
The Chuck Lorre creation has long been one of the top shows for the network, winning five Emmy Awards and one Golden Globe, mostly for the work of Jim Parsons, who plays quirky nerd Sheldon Cooper.
“Comedy is a big part of our schedule, and The Big Bang Theory is the biggest comedy force on television,” CBS Entertainment chairman Nina Tassler said in a statement. “This multi-year deal further strengthens our network’s position for future seasons and marks another chapter in the great partnership CBS enjoys with Warner Bros."
According to Variety, Warner Bros. is currently in the midst of contract renewal negotiations with key cast members Parsons, Johnny Galecki, and Kaley Cuoco. In September 2013, the three stars reportedly banded together, seeking huge raises in their new contracts. At the time, they were each making $325,000 per episode and were hoping to increase to $1 million per episode.
No word yet on whether core supporting stars like Kunal Nayyar, Simon Helberg, Melissa Rauch, or Mayim Bialik will be returning. But Nayyar, who plays Leonard and Sheldon's female-shy friend Raj Koothrappali, tweeted the renewal announcement, adding, "What a morning:)"
