CBS' 'The Big Bang Theory' is wrapping up its 12 season run on May 16 as the 
longest-running multicamera comedy in TV history and head of its grand finale, the stars 
and creators of the show spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the decision to end 
the series, the shows impact and if another show could challenge its legacy. 
The CBS comedy has definitely solidified its mark in tv history. Through the course of its 
12 seasons and record 279-episode run, the show is TV's highest-rated comedy, 
has collected 52 Emmy nominations — including 10 wins — and seven Golden Globes. 
The cast are among TV's richest, earning $1 million an episode and on top of all of that, 
the series has even inspired generations of scientists, including a UCLA scholarship 
program, bee and jellyfish species and a monkey all named after the comedy. 
"Bazinga!"
CBS and producers Warner Bros. TV were in early conversations for potentially returning 
for a 13th season, but it was the show's two-time Emmy-winning star Jim Parsons, 
who plays Sheldon, that ultimately said no more. The actor said, 
And for series co creator Chuck Lorre, the thought of continuing the show without 
Parsons seemed impossible. 
And the shows success is still something the cast and production hold close to heart. 
Showrunner Steve Holland, who has overseen 'Big Bang' for the past two seasons and 
has been with the series since the pilot, noted that none of the producers thought 
'Big Bang' would ever become what it has.
Because of its massive success and legacy, many in the cast and creative team doubt 
that another comedy will be able to cut through and have a longevity that’s similar to 
'Big Bang.' Star Johnny Galecki who plays Leonard says, 
As for Kunal Nayarr, who plays Raj, says, 
Parsons says it’s “ hard to imagine” something surpassing 'Big Bang’s legacy...
but you never know. 
'The Big Bang Theory' series finale airs Thursday at 8 p.m. on CBS followed by a special 
episode of 'Young Sheldon' and a retrospective hosted by Galecki and Cuoco. 
For more coverage and updates on the finale head over to THR.com/BigBangTheory 
and until next time, for The Hollywood Reporter News I’m Neha Joy. 
