• Network: CBS
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 24, 2007
Season #: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1348 Ratings

User score distribution:
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User Reviews

  1. JohnG.
    Oct 10, 2007
    10
    Great humor which points out the differences between the people in our society who take on higher pursuits and the rest of us. Very intelligent comedy.
  2. MichelleT
    Jan 14, 2010
    10
    I love this show and every episode I always find myself laughing.
  3. ShaneMitchell
    Apr 16, 2010
    10
    I've enjoyed most every episode I've seen of the show. Though it is based on an old joke I still find it entertaining enough to keep me tuning in every week. I find myself laughing out loud multiple times pretty much every episode. Though I must admit I would probably have rated this show about a 7 since it's not that original but I felt a 10 helps to better balance out I've enjoyed most every episode I've seen of the show. Though it is based on an old joke I still find it entertaining enough to keep me tuning in every week. I find myself laughing out loud multiple times pretty much every episode. Though I must admit I would probably have rated this show about a 7 since it's not that original but I felt a 10 helps to better balance out those who gave it 0s, a score it certainly does not deserve! Expand
  4. JeremyGiam
    May 24, 2010
    10
    Obviously the humour in this show does not appeal to reviewers but let me tell u this show has one of the best "Nerd Humour" ever.
  5. AlfredoO.
    Nov 10, 2007
    10
    The thing about this show, is that all of us geeks can identify with it and laugh.
  6. [Anonymous]
    Feb 6, 2008
    10
    this show is both original and hysterical. please someone tell the studio to make season 2
  7. MikeU.
    May 19, 2008
    10
    The funniest comedy in a long time! You have to be a little nerdy to get some of the jokes, so this show is kind of targeted toward nerds. Still, there are quite a few jokes that most people will still get. In conclusion, this is a really good comedy and they really should make a season 2.
  8. Tomas
    Feb 7, 2009
    10
    Probably the best show there is.
  9. JamesU
    Apr 30, 2009
    10
    This is a wonderfully written comedy, if you understand the science behind it.
  10. NickyB
    Feb 20, 2010
    10
    Absolutely awesome, watched the pilot and was hooked, made my bf watch it and we are seriously ADDICTED!!!every episode just gets better and better....VIVA BIG BANG!!! P.S. To those banging on the stereotype card: Maybe you should consider that a show like this actually makes people see a different side of those so-called-stereotypes or maybe its just me that see it that way.
  11. ElisaU.
    Nov 11, 2007
    10
    Darling show! I haven't seen anythinng this funny, with such likeable characters in a long time. Excellent.
  12. borats.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    the best of show of the 2007 season i swear its gonna be one of the few shows that makes it past the freshman lineup. one could only hope that this will make it and not a piece of crap like cavemen
  13. ScottG.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    This is the best new sitcom in years. Absolutely the funniest thing I have seen in a long time.
  14. Renee
    Dec 28, 2007
    10
    This is the best show of the season.Hilarious writing and superb acting!
  15. MarialyceG.
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    This show is hilarious. Yes, they are nerds. Yes, she is dingy. Their characters play off wonderfully with each other. Sheldon is one of the best straight men that I have seen in a long time. I think everyone will get in touch with their "inner nerd" watching this show.
  16. MayLove
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    One of the funniest shows that I have seen thus far!
  17. dm.
    Oct 6, 2007
    10
    i loved it. don't see this as being a hit on "geeks or others that may be picked on". I have a child who has seen many years of geekdom and not so nice people around him. We made it through with laughter and with the help of a very pretty and nice young girl who befriended him. Life may not be as funny as sitcoms but maybe sitcoms can help others to see more interaction is possible.
  18. GaborS.
    Oct 6, 2007
    10
    I love this show. So funny and Kaley is a really gorgeus Eyecandy.
  19. autumnP.
    Sep 27, 2007
    10
    I love it. It is very funny.
  20. Sara
    Jan 29, 2008
    10
    I literally laugh out loud every time I watch this. I find Sheldon to be a Gen X version of Niles Crane -- but still pretty unique in his own right.
  21. XavierV.
    Feb 4, 2008
    10
    The best comedy in many years. The dialogues are brilliant. The characters very charming. Almost perfect!
  22. AnikaW.
    Feb 4, 2008
    10
    Best Comedy on CBS. So squeaky clean and innocent. You may not understand the science, but the heart if the matter is there. These "nerds" live in a conflicting world of reason and fantasy. I knew guys like this in college. I ask myself every week, could Sheldon be any more neurotic? And every week the answer is yes. Thank you CBS for airing a sitcom with integrity- not relying on Best Comedy on CBS. So squeaky clean and innocent. You may not understand the science, but the heart if the matter is there. These "nerds" live in a conflicting world of reason and fantasy. I knew guys like this in college. I ask myself every week, could Sheldon be any more neurotic? And every week the answer is yes. Thank you CBS for airing a sitcom with integrity- not relying on cleavage, sexual innuendo or some nerdy foreign guy with an accent- oh wait.... Expand
  23. WilliamB.
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    Really different type of show very witty will not miss a show.
  24. SeanR.
    Mar 6, 2008
    10
    This is a cool show.....the mixture of geeks and the hotness of kaley really hits you......roll on season 2.
  25. JeffL
    Dec 10, 2009
    10
    The situational comedy with the most jocoseness currently crossing the airwaves.
  26. steviej.
    Oct 4, 2009
    10
    It is only funny to the people who are smart enough to understand it :) no offense or anything.
  27. AndyG
    Feb 8, 2009
    10
    More entertaining than an Orion green-skinned slave feeding grapes to Captain Kirk.
  28. melissam.
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    Its the best show ever!
  29. RobertW
    Mar 15, 2009
    10
    The first American show ever to have really advanced jokes, sure they often mix the jokes with pure stupidity but if you actually know a bit of quantum theory (not many does) the jokes get about 5 times as good. Unfortunately the show more or less falls flatt in many cases since the average person won't be able to get jokes about theoretical physics. But for us nerds out there, this The first American show ever to have really advanced jokes, sure they often mix the jokes with pure stupidity but if you actually know a bit of quantum theory (not many does) the jokes get about 5 times as good. Unfortunately the show more or less falls flatt in many cases since the average person won't be able to get jokes about theoretical physics. But for us nerds out there, this is pure gold. Expand
  30. PaulJ
    Apr 6, 2009
    10
    Very very funny.
  31. JamesN
    Sep 22, 2009
    10
    This is one of the best comedies in a long time. The cast is amazing together and they even admit to having some "geeky" qualities. The Chicage Tribune is clearly reviewed by a "popular" person who cannot relate to the story line. While those of use who toed the "popular/unpopular" line or were immersed in subjects that clearly made us geeks see the complete brilliance of this show.
  32. SusS
    Sep 2, 2009
    10
    Funniest new show in many years! Well written! Well cast!
  33. GokulP
    Sep 6, 2009
    10
    This is the funniest comedy tv show i have ever seen.Being an Engineering student i really love it. If you are a lover of Technology, women & fun then watch it.
  34. SayedM
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    If they tell me there will be only one show on tv ... i want it to be the big bang theory.
  35. BobF.
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Wonderful show. Best sitcom since "The odd Couple". It is obvious that most of the reviewers cant remember the odd couple and really cant focus long enough to appreciate the intelligent and witty dialogue. It would take an IQ of more than a house cat to really appreciate this show. Those who dont get it turn off the TV and go text message someone or call your BFF Jill. Idiocracy!!!
  36. CheriP.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    This is the first show in a long time that I actually care enough to pay attention to when it is on. Love it.
  37. JenniferR.
    Oct 2, 2007
    10
    Funniest show on TV since "Third Rock from the Sun." Good intellectual humor!
  38. RyanC.
    Dec 12, 2007
    10
    If you get the jokes like I do (WoW references, social awkwardness, the Doppler costume!) this is one of the best new shows of the season. If you don't, like my wife, you'll laugh at some parts but will never catch on to the real treasures in the subtle references.
  39. C.J.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    very funny, i look forward to it every Monday!
  40. CindyW.
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    This is the first show in a long time that makes me laugh outloud.
  41. WilliamB
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    Originally watched this show to pass the time until Heroes came on. Now, I hate to miss an episode!!! The show is so hilarious. Sheldon makes such a wonderful straight man and sidekick to Leonard. You don't have to be a genius to know funny, and this is it!!!
  42. EmiliaJ.
    Oct 4, 2007
    10
    What can I say? I have an adolescent sense of humor. I think "Two and a Half Men" is hilarious, consistently. I think the critics are punishing this show because they hate Chuck Lorre (why? don't know, maybe they mistrust people with both an adolescent love of slapstick and fart jokes PLUS a foundation in literature and history). In any case, I'd recommend everyone at least What can I say? I have an adolescent sense of humor. I think "Two and a Half Men" is hilarious, consistently. I think the critics are punishing this show because they hate Chuck Lorre (why? don't know, maybe they mistrust people with both an adolescent love of slapstick and fart jokes PLUS a foundation in literature and history). In any case, I'd recommend everyone at least check this out. My highest accolades: I fell off the sofa laughing, and tears came to my eyes once in each episode so far. For someone like me who just wants to be entertained, that's the pinnacle of great (not deep and meaningful--but great) TV. I just want writing and delivery that makes me laugh. This delivers. Expand
  43. TimC.
    Oct 8, 2007
    10
    Hilarious!!!!!!
  44. BillyD.
    Oct 8, 2007
    10
    Not since Frasier has smart been back on TV I love this show. Very well written and well played out. This is a must see for anyone who scored above 1400 on their SAT Test.
  45. TroyI.
    Oct 9, 2007
    10
    Finally! A comedy that I actually laugh at. Don't cancel!
  46. MarisaV.
    Sep 27, 2007
    10
    It is funny and that it all that matters
  47. CJ.
    Sep 29, 2007
    10
    It was a different and new approach to comedy. We loved it!
  48. JasonVoorhees
    Sep 30, 2007
    10
    Very funny. I like the fact that a very attractive girl doesn't mind being seen with "nerds". It's very sad how in TV the "beautiful" people are never seen with the geeky, the average or the kinda goofy so this was a very refreshing bit of entertainment. i would give it a 50 if they would let me.
  49. Gayle
    Feb 10, 2008
    10
    Love it! Can't wait for it to return after the writer's strike is over!
  50. AlexanderJ.
    Feb 6, 2008
    10
    Funny. I like the fact that you actually have to pay attention to what the characters are saying. Jokes for people with an IQ larger than their shoe size
  51. NeilM.
    Mar 9, 2008
    10
    This is a great show. great cast. Very funny.
  52. JerryR
    May 14, 2008
    10
    Hilarious show - nerd-comedy is over the top but hilarious!
  53. IsabelP.
    May 5, 2008
    10
    This is the funniest and smartest thing that television has shown in decades. The irony used in the show is so brilliant and so well written between smart jokes and scientifically facts that the average American is curse never to get it (and probably hates the show) but this is an original, intelligent and fascinating series that I can't not wait to see every week. Let's just This is the funniest and smartest thing that television has shown in decades. The irony used in the show is so brilliant and so well written between smart jokes and scientifically facts that the average American is curse never to get it (and probably hates the show) but this is an original, intelligent and fascinating series that I can't not wait to see every week. Let's just hope CBS does not compromise to keep the era of "The OC" and "Reality TV CRAP" let's them get this wonderful show of the air Expand
  54. RobC.
    Jun 15, 2008
    10
    This show rocks.
  55. Steve
    Jul 1, 2008
    10
    Perhaps being a Physicist biases me, but I do love it so.
  56. DiegoT.
    Jul 16, 2008
    10
    Great show! Sooo funny!
  57. SelmaO.
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    Great show and jokes.
  58. CindyS.
    Jul 2, 2008
    10
    Absolutely the best show!!! I love all of the characters.
  59. RaulN.
    Sep 30, 2008
    10
    Is probably the funniest tv serial in some years. Is easy that the "not geek" people can't understand some jokes but is a very good option with one of the best characters in years, Sheldon.
  60. JonK
    Nov 28, 2009
    10
    It is now apparent that Chuck Lorre is the new "King Midas" of network TV. I became a fan of Two and a Half Men about 3 years ago, got caught up via the DVD's and still love it. I started watching this occasionally, and it grew on me, I went back and watched the first 2 seasons on DVD so I knew I hadn't missed a thing. Johnny Galecki and Jim Parsons are brilliant in this show. It is now apparent that Chuck Lorre is the new "King Midas" of network TV. I became a fan of Two and a Half Men about 3 years ago, got caught up via the DVD's and still love it. I started watching this occasionally, and it grew on me, I went back and watched the first 2 seasons on DVD so I knew I hadn't missed a thing. Johnny Galecki and Jim Parsons are brilliant in this show. The writing is great too, and I couldn't imagine anyone playing the role of Sheldon as well as Parsons does it. Perfect timing, great delivery. Plain and simple, this show does what it sets out to do; make you laugh. Thank you Chuck Lorre!! Expand
  61. JoAnneB
    Nov 7, 2009
    10
    My husband and I and our 11 and 13 year old daughters have rented Season 1 and 2 three times now and watch it again and again and it just keeps getting better and funnier. Smart and funny!
  62. joeyl.
    Oct 4, 2009
    10
    Lets give it up for Sheldon's laugh!
  63. CarlosQ.
    Jan 5, 2009
    10
    Just a funny and clever show! (Not only for geeks).
  64. Liam
    Mar 31, 2009
    10
    Comic timing at its best!! Parson's mannerisms as Sheldon are hilarious and Helberg does an outstanding job as Howard. Highly recommended!
  65. TrentF
    Mar 31, 2009
    10
    I love this show. While, it could definitely function without some of the sexual innuendo, it is the kind of show that I miss from when I was growing up in the 90s. One that's fun but doesn't cause you to think too hard while watching. Just laugh with the audience.
  66. DanielW
    Jul 29, 2009
    10
    Sharp writing that respects the intelligence of the audience much like Frasier did. The cast is fantastic but the stand-out is Jim Parsons. He has created a character that will be long remembered - an absolute original!
  67. TomT
    Sep 10, 2009
    10
    Great show. Took a while to grow on me. Great cast. Great writing.
  68. JamesP
    Jan 17, 2010
    10
    I don't like the laugh track but I find the show to be clever and intelligent.
  69. Joyce
    Nov 14, 2007
    10
    Brilliant, even their t-shirts are worthy of winning "Best set design". I love the stairs!
  70. ArjunK.
    Nov 18, 2007
    10
    It's a nice show. Light humour. I have never seen it on TV yet. Always see it online. hehe.. and I am originally from New Delhi, India and a geek at that... :) so it's kinda fun to watch this show.
  71. KennethL.
    Nov 20, 2007
    10
    Well... It looks like based on the ratings here that you either LOVE it or HATE it... I love it... I consider myself a nerd of sorts, and I think that we should be able to poke fun of everyone! So to all you uptight stiffs... GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR BUTTS! It's funny.
  72. SunilM.
    Nov 23, 2007
    10
    Man this show rocks. It really puts on perspective the social behavior most true minds face. It is remarkable how writers could get into the mind of geniuses and make a show about it. Perfect 10.
  73. JackieP.
    Nov 28, 2007
    10
    Finally! A sitcom with a talented cast able to deliver words with more than one syllable. Leonard and Sheldon are laugh out loud funny, and when the whole nerd posse is together, it's must see TV at its finest. Keep the plaid pants and the obsessive compulsive behavior comin!
  74. DanielG.
    Oct 13, 2007
    10
    this is the only sitcom on a tv network that i can watch every week and not get board. To me, this is a nerdy version of That '70s Show.
  75. Rebecca
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Love it. My husband and I love this new show. Please keep it on the air.
  76. TimC.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    Hilarious!!!!!!
  77. KarenA.
    Dec 22, 2007
    10
    What a crack up! The situation is lame, but it is still hilarious.
  78. CarrieS
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    Love this show! Filled with full-blown belly laughs - I hope it sticks around for a long time.
  79. LarryK.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    I have to say that I really liked this thing. I laughed out loud and that's what I really want from comedies -- to laugh. Also the guys really reminded me of my nephew who's at MIT and is exactly like these guys.
  80. ShawnL.
    Nov 12, 2008
    10
    A friend of mine turned me onto this show. I was hooked after one episode! It works for the same reason Friends was such a hit. The characters are genuinely likable and down to earth. You can't help but like Sheldon even if he's pretentious and arrogant and what guy (even non-geeks) can't relate to the seemingly unattainable hot chick scenario that Leonard finds himself in. A friend of mine turned me onto this show. I was hooked after one episode! It works for the same reason Friends was such a hit. The characters are genuinely likable and down to earth. You can't help but like Sheldon even if he's pretentious and arrogant and what guy (even non-geeks) can't relate to the seemingly unattainable hot chick scenario that Leonard finds himself in. Finally this show is just plain hilarious! I'm laughing out loud during most of each episode. I especially like that Penny is from Nebraska, although I don't know many people from Omaha that can hog tie anyone...Lincoln maybe. Expand
  81. KelsyP.
    Nov 20, 2008
    10
    Easily my all time favorite show. Finally, a new show that is not complicated and once again all of the issues are solved in a neat 30 minutes. Talk about a break from your day.
  82. JohnM.
    Nov 23, 2008
    10
    Great show, intelligent and witty with some classic lines!
  83. melissam.
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Its the best show ever!
  84. BrianM.
    Feb 24, 2008
    10
    Funniest and most intelligent show on TV in a long, long time. The writing is genius and the acting is terrific. Can't wait until they come back with new shows in March.
  85. JosieK.
    May 17, 2008
    10
    This show always makes me laugh! The geek culture in-jokes are spot on. I love how each guy has his own special brand of geekiness.
  86. Christopher
    Sep 17, 2008
    10
    I love this show, it is a refreshing new show. The humor is evident, and caused me to laugh out loud through every episode. I will continue to watch and hope that it continues to deliver the humor.
  87. LongN
    Nov 13, 2009
    10
    The show's portrayal of true geekery is dead on and the jokes requires geek knowledge or at least exposure to true geekdom to understand. The fact that some of the "professional" reviewers rated the show so low, and their reviews, shows that they have no idea what they're talking about. Obviously, the real comedy in the show is going right over their heads.
  88. FredS
    Jan 26, 2009
    10
    This show is the funniest ever!
  89. KimberlyS
    May 17, 2009
    10
    This show rocks. As a self proclaimed nerd, I relate to many of the jokes. The writing and casting for this show is amazing. Although I like each of the characters, Sheldon steals the show.
  90. KyleT.
    Nov 26, 2007
    10
    It's clever and hilarious at the same time. The "nerds'" performance is wonderful, and I'd recommend this show to anyone who's smart enough to understand the humor.
  91. AnonymousMC
    Dec 29, 2009
    10
    One of the best shpws on TV. Very Funny. I ewad the rating of the Chicago Tribune. Now we know why The Chicago Tribune is going out of business: They are not atuned to the real world.
  92. Sep 1, 2010
    10
    Honestly, this is the funniest show I have ever seen. It has replaced The Office as my favorite comedy. All of the characters bring their own unique personality and loads of humor to the show.
  93. Nov 9, 2010
    10
    Can this show get any funnier? I even laugh when I hear Howard's mother screaming from another room. I laugh from start to finish as this ensemble cast is simply the best. The writers on this series earn their payday and then some as each line is funnier than the next. I do miss it not being on Monday with those other strong comedy shows. I do not watch the other shows on Thursday.
  94. Sep 2, 2010
    10
    Starts off slow but picks up really quick with very good humor and funny characters. Sheldon Cooper is one of the funniest characters on Television. The show has everything for everyone
  95. Sep 6, 2010
    10
    Terrific ensemble cast, clever writing and an awesome lead in Jim Parsons. Well deserved Emmy Jim. BTW, I have a PhD and am well-published in scientific journals. This is one of the preferred shows on TV for most of my colleagues. The science is good! The Schroedinger's box episode was priceless. The writers don't dwell overlong on the intricacies of science so as not to make it too dullTerrific ensemble cast, clever writing and an awesome lead in Jim Parsons. Well deserved Emmy Jim. BTW, I have a PhD and am well-published in scientific journals. This is one of the preferred shows on TV for most of my colleagues. The science is good! The Schroedinger's box episode was priceless. The writers don't dwell overlong on the intricacies of science so as not to make it too dull for the average viewer. Expand
  96. Sep 23, 2010
    10
    Although it can sometimes feel like jokes are repeated, the show is a shining example of geek culture, full of funny comic, movie and video game references that young people, like me, will lap up.
  97. Nas
    Nov 15, 2010
    10
    hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaahha! that is all I would like to say about The Big Bang Theory :D
  98. Dec 19, 2010
    10
    The first and second season demonstrates how even a geeky, nerdy, and sex-desperate bunch of guys can be hella fun. The Big Bang Theory shows more promise than any other sitcoms out there right now. The show gave Jim Parsons a chance to show off his unlikable but likable at the same time, face. What a great show!
  99. Dec 25, 2010
    10
    Sad that this show has a lower rating then that dreck that calls itself "how I met your mother".

    Fascinatingly, people seem to like either BBT or HIMYM, but not the other... MelS for example. I take the opposite side. To ChrisC and others sharing his viewpoint: obviously you haven't met as many nerds as the show's creators seem to have met. I, for example, share Sheldon's bafflement
    Sad that this show has a lower rating then that dreck that calls itself "how I met your mother".

    Fascinatingly, people seem to like either BBT or HIMYM, but not the other... MelS for example. I take the opposite side.

    To ChrisC and others sharing his viewpoint: obviously you haven't met as many nerds as the show's creators seem to have met. I, for example, share Sheldon's bafflement at social mores and emotions. It's either that or you really are too stupid to get the jokes. An indictment of the american education system, indeed.
    Expand
  100. Jan 20, 2011
    10
    This is my now my favourite show, the comic genius of Chuck Lore is absolutely limitless, the references back to the classic sci-fi and fantasy and how they typically represent the nerdy comic collectors is just brilliant.
Metascore
57

Mixed or average reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 23
  2. Negative: 4 out of 23
  1. It may not be a creative breakthrough, but it's lots funnier than the universal equation would predict.
  2. Standard setup? Sure. Standard execution? For the most part.
  3. 40
    The show might even have been engaging, if the one-liners came less frequently and the characters had a little more dimension. As it is, Sheldon and Leonard are merely laughable, if sweet, and they are even less fleshed out than the characters on "Two and a Half Men."