As CBS’s Big Bang Theory comes to a close in its twelfth and final season, Warner Bros. dedicated Stage 25 to the series. The soundstage, where all of the episodes had been filmed, opened its doors to fans for a run-through of episode #1271, which is slated to air in March.
It may seem a long time coming for this dedication, but this was actually only the fifth show to have been dedicated and honored in such a way in the nearly 100 year lifespan of the studio. The only other shows that have had stages dedicated to them have been Friends, ER, Two and a Half Men and Ellen. Big Bang Theory’s creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady are well-deserved of this honor, as the show has made television history as the longest running multi-cam sitcom, with its 279 episodes and counting.
After their 1271 run-through, or cast and production rehearsal on set, show creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady along with actors Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Melissa Rauch, Mayim Bialik, and Kevin Sussman, toasted the newly dedicated Stage 25, which has now been renamed “The Big Bang Theory Stage.” The plaque was unveiled in the living room of the set.
“It’s been a family for a long, long time,” Lorre stated emotionally. “No one has ever phoned in things on this show for 12 years,” he added, joking that “We’re going to be so miserable after this.” Upon receiving the plaque, Lorre thanked the crew. “You come to work every day to make a good show,” he shared. “We don’t think about getting a plaque, but the plaque is extremely rewarding. It makes the show part of the history of the lot.”
In a joint statement, executive producers thanked the studio: “For 12 years and almost 300 episodes, The Big Bang Theory has considered Stage 25 its home. We’re honored that the series can now become a part of the history of this legendary studio which has been home to so many amazing films and television shows.”
Other shows that made history at Stage 25 were Maverick from the 50’s and the WB show What I Like About You as well as the films Casablanca, Bonnie and Clyde, Blade Runner as well as Batman Returns.