CBS Renews 'Big Bang Theory' for Three More Seasons

Cliff Lipson/CBS

CBS and Warner Bros. Television have reached a three-year deal that keeps the top-rated Big Bang Theory on the Eye Network through the 2013-14 season.

The announcement, made by CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler and WBTV president Peter Roth, came Wednesday, two days before the network's presentation at the Television Critics Association press tour in Pasadena and on the heels of more lurid Charlie Sheen headlines for Two and a Half Men, another comedy hit for the network and studio.

Like Men, Big Bang is extremely lucrative for CBS and Warner Bros. The sitcom has been sold in syndication for $2 million per episode (reruns begin airing on Fox and TBS this fall), and it finished 2009-10 as primetime's top-rated scripted series in the ad-coveted 18-49 demographic. CBS this season moved Big Bang to Thursdays, where it has become the No. 1 comedy of the night by averaging 13.9 million viewers and a 4.7 in the demo.

"It doesn't take a theoretical physicist to see why this show is a BIG part of our comedy future," Tassler said. "From ratings to critical acclaim to pop culture buzz, it's struck a chord on all levels. The creative genius of [executive producers] Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady and the on-camera talents of an amazing young ensemble have created a comedy that will entertain viewers for a long time. We're proud to partner with Warner Bros. on another highly successful, long-running comedy."

Added Roth: "We are delighted and grateful that CBS has once again rewarded The Big Bang Theory with a multiyear renewal. This is a testament to the inspired and brilliant work of the show's entire creative team, and we look forward to continuing this highly successful partnership."