Best Episodes
The Big Bang Theory, which aired on CBS from 2007 to 2019, is one of the most popular sitcoms of all time. The show centers on five characters living in Pasadena, California and features the geekiness and intellect of Leonard Hofstadter, Sheldon Cooper, Howard Wolowitz and Raj Koothrappali contrasted with the common sense and social skills of Penny. With 13 seasons of content, fans have plenty of episodes to choose from. Here we will rank the best episodes of The Big Bang Theory and discuss why they are so popular.
The Big Bang Theory is renowned for its clever writing and witty dialogue. The show explores a variety of topics, ranging from relationships and romance to science and technology. It also features a number of recurring jokes and cultural references. All of these elements combine to make The Big Bang Theory an entertaining and memorable show.
Given the show’s long run, it’s no surprise that it has featured some truly outstanding episodes over the years. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best episodes of The Big Bang Theory and discussing why they are so highly ranked. From heartfelt moments to laugh-out-loud comedy, these episodes are sure to please any fan of the show.
Written by Sophie and last updated on dec 04, 2024.
PS: The following content contains spoilers!
PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!
Sheldon must decide how much "Amy time" is too much after she takes a job at his university, and their relationship is put to the test. Meanwhile, Howard finds himself sleeping on Raj's couch after a fight with Bernadette.
The episode was rated 7.96 from 4734 votes.
Leonard tries to keep Sheldon from overreacting when a past mistake comes to light, but Sheldon punishes Leonard by making him "walk a mile in his shoes." Meanwhile, Penny confronts Raj's ex-girlfriend, Lucy.
The episode was rated 7.97 from 4647 votes.
After Amy ruins one of Sheldon's favorite movies – Raiders of the Lost Ark – he gets defensive, seeking revenge. Meanwhile, Leonard discovers a way to get Penny to do anything; and Raj and Stuart create online dating profiles.
The episode was rated 7.99 from 4900 votes.
While Leonard is away, Sheldon and Penny bond, but it's Sheldon's feelings that are crushed when Leonard returns from the North Sea. Also, Wolowitz helps Raj get over his ex-girlfriend.
The episode was rated 7.99 from 5273 votes.
Sheldon has a personal crisis when he decides string theory is a waste of his time; a double date ends in embarrassment for Howard.
The episode was rated 8.01 from 4747 votes.
Sheldon feels slighted when Professor Proton seeks advice from Leonard instead of him, and he seeks revenge by befriending a rival science TV host, Bill Nye. Meanwhile, Raj becomes jealous when Howard crashes "girls' night."
The episode was rated 8.05 from 4591 votes.
A bad day compels Penny to re-evaluate her choices -- including Leonard; Bernadette and Howard must care for Mrs. Wolowitz; Sheldon gives Raj advice on relationships.
The episode was rated 8.05 from 4740 votes.
Faced with an uncertain future, Sheldon considers a major change; Emily and Raj decide to take things to the next level. Also, Howard and Bernadette struggle to care for Mrs. Wolowitz when she is injured.
The episode was rated 8.07 from 4823 votes.
Howard's relationship with his mother causes an unusual threat to his masculinity. Meanwhile, Leonard's friendship with Sheldon is put to the test when he returns from the North Sea earlier than expected.
The episode was rated 8.08 from 4941 votes.
While Sheldon is in Texas, the rest of the gang realize how much he has changed their lives as they decorate the apartment for Christmas.
The episode was rated 8.09 from 4744 votes.
The Big Bang Theory episode "The Locomotive Manipulation" follows Sheldon and Amy as they go to wine country with Howard and Bernadette for Valentine's Day. Meanwhile, Penny and Leonard rush Raj's dog to the vet. This episode resonates with viewers who have dated a "rail fan" as it delves into the world of trains, just like a rail fan would appreciate.
The episode brings a huge surprise as Sheldon does something for the first time that no one ever expected. This unexpected twist brings a huge reaction from viewers who were recently shown the same Sheldon character in a seemingly different light. The episode is a surprising take on Sheldon's character and viewers who were familiar with him can't help but be surprised.
The episode was rated 8.13 from 4758 votes.
In the episode The Indecision Amalgamation of The Big Bang Theory, Raj finds himself in a difficult situation when he dates two women at once, leaving him feeling guilty. In addition, Penny has the chance to appear in a cheesy movie and Sheldon is stuck between getting two different gaming systems.
The viewers seem to especially enjoy Raj’s newfound dilemma of dating two women at the same time. They also find the classic battle between the PS4 and XBOX One amusing, as Sheldon is torn between the two. Though Sheldon is wealthy enough, viewers joke that he should just buy both gaming systems.
The episode was rated 8.16 from 4807 votes.
In The Big Bang Theory's episode "The Romance Resonance", Sheldon's latest scientific breakthrough brings him a mixture of emotions, causing him to question his own worth and feel like a fraud. Meanwhile, Howard's romantic gesture to Bernadette causes Penny to make her own effort to up the ante with Leonard.
The episode was filled with surprisingly touching moments, such as Howard's heartfelt music he composed for Bernadette. The music was both funny and beautiful, and it is a testament to the show's writing that an audience can be moved to both laughter and tears in a single sitcom episode. This episode was a great example of how The Big Bang Theory can provide comedy as well as heartfelt moments.
The episode was rated 8.22 from 4934 votes.
The Big Bang Theory's episode "The Scavenger Vortex" is a classic episode and one of the fan favorites. The whole gang comes together to compete in a cutthroat scavenger hunt designed by Raj that tests their science knowledge and street smarts. This episode is a perfect example of what makes The Big Bang Theory great. It brings out the best and worst in everyone, creating a fun and entertaining atmosphere.
The episode also highlights the characters' individual qualities. Raj can now talk to women even when sober, which allows him to take part in social activities like the scavenger party or the murder mystery dinner. The competition between the gang is reminiscent of another popular CBS show, The Amazing Race. The Scavenger Vortex is an enjoyable episode that shows the gang having fun together and demonstrates how The Big Bang Theory always delivers in its unique and brilliant way.
The episode was rated 8.25 from 4987 votes.
In The Big Bang Theory episode "The Thanksgiving Decoupling," the entire gang drags an upset Sheldon to Mrs. Wolowitz's house for Thanksgiving. Meanwhile, Penny and Leonard must deal with a mistake from her past. This episode is often cited as one of the funniest of the entire series. It includes the hilarious marriage plot between Penny and Zack and the comical character of Brian Smith. To top it off, viewers get to see Sheldon in an uninhibited, intoxicated state, spouting things he would not normally say.
However, some viewers are not entirely satisfied with this episode. The marriage plot between Penny and Zack is questioned, as going to a Vegas wedding chapel does not make you legally married. It is simply a ceremony that does not hold any legal value. Additionally, some viewers argue that shows like Seinfeld, FRIENDS, and HIMYM are superior to The Big Bang Theory.
The episode was rated 8.33 from 4911 votes.
