Television producer Chuck Lorre claims the main cast of 'The Big Bang Theory' refused to accept a 10 percent reduction in their salaries to accommodate raises for two newer series regulars. In his new memoir, 'Sitcom,' Lorre detailed the friction that arose when executives at the network sought to balance the compensation of the ensemble cast during the show's early seasons.
Lorre noted that Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch were brought in toward the end of season three and upgraded to series regulars in season four. He argued that without their contributions, the series would likely have run out of gas after seven or eight seasons. As the show grew, the network received pressure to increase the episodic fees for Bialik and Rauch. At the time, the principal cast members were earning $1 million per episode plus profit points.
Lorre wrote that TV executives Les Moonves and Bruce Rosenblum approached the main cast to request the 10 percent pay cut. He expected the actors to agree quickly, citing a spirit of gratitude often displayed at award shows. Instead, Lorre stated that the cast was outraged by the request, viewing it as an unfair demand to reward newer cast members. He described Moonves and Rosenblum as having to leave the room in defeat.
Fox News Digital reached out to representatives for 'The Big Bang Theory' stars Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Kunal Nayyar, and Simon Helberg for comment regarding Lorre's account.
Beyond 'The Big Bang Theory,' Lorre provided behind-the-scenes details from his other productions. He described his eight-season run with Charlie Sheen on 'Two and a Half Men' as initially enjoyable but increasingly unstable during season eight. Lorre recounted Sheen's frequent absences, which were often attributed to food poisoning or dental emergencies. One instance involved Sheen claiming his BIC lighter had exploded and burned his eyelashes. Another involved his manager flying across the country with cash to purchase a sex tape starring his client.
Lorre said the production team worked in a constant state of anxiety during this period. He described filming Sheen's final scene with Melanie Lynsky, noting that Sheen could not remember his lines and had to use furniture to stand upright. Lorre stated it was clear to everyone that Sheen was in trouble and that he had no choice but to shut down the show. Warner Brothers subsequently decided not to keep Sheen on their lot after he refused to get help for his drug problem and criticized him on television.
Lorre also addressed casting controversies on 'Mike & Molly.' He revealed that CBS executives initially rejected Melissa McCarthy for the lead role, preferring a younger, more attractive actress who could wear a fat suit. Lorre insisted on casting McCarthy, and he later expressed satisfaction when her film 'Bridesmaids' was released. Fox News Digital contacted representatives for CBS regarding these claims.