The Big Bang Theory is an American sitcom created and executively produced by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady. It premiered on CBS September 24, 2007.[2]
Set in Pasadena, California, the show is about two male Caltech prodigies in their 20s, one an experimental physicist (Leonard Hofstadter) and the other a theoretical physicist (Sheldon Cooper), who live across the hall from an attractive blonde waitress with show-biz aspirations (Penny). Leonard and Sheldon's 'geekiness' and sheer intellect are contrasted with Penny's social skills and common sense for comic effect.[3][4] Two equally geeky friends of theirs, Howard and Rajesh, are also main characters.
The show is produced by Warner Bros. Television and Chuck Lorre Productions.[5] In March 2009, it was reported that The Big Bang Theory had been renewed for a third and fourth season by CBS.[6] In August 2009, the sitcom won the best comedy series TCA award and Jim Parsons won the award for individual achievement in comedy.[7] When the third season premiered on September 21, 2009, it ranked as CBS's highest-rated show of that evening in the adults 18–49 demographic (4.6/10), along with a then series-high 12.83 million viewers.[8]The Big Bang Theory airs on Mondays at 9:30 EST following another Chuck Lorre-produced show Two and a Half Men.[9]
