Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Amy (Mayim Bailik) of "The Big Bang Theory" are set to take a giant leap in this Thursday's special episode, which will also feature guest star and veteran comedian Bob Newhart.
Entitled "The Opening Night Excitation," the synopsis to Season 9 Episode 11 stated the following, per TV Guide: "After more than five years of dating, Sheldon and Amy spend their first night together. Also, Leonard, Wolowitz, and Koothrappali must decide who will take their extra Star Wars movie ticket."
The news outlet also reported that the episode will feature Amy's birthday, which happens to coincide with the opening of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Newhart's character, Arthur, will pop in Sheldon's dream to provide clarity to what's really important to him: "Star Wars" or Amy.
"It's hard for him (Sheldon) to understand that Amy won't accept the fact that this is the premiere of 'Star Wars,' so I have to present that side," said Newhart via The Huffington Post.
The sexual encounter between the long-term couple will be initiated by Sheldon, as revealed by producer Chuck Lorre via Fox News. Lorre also shared that the scene was "handled with a lot of delicacy." He added: "There is a very elegant way the episode was written so that yes, they have taken a very large step forward, but it doesn't undermine the nature of the relationship."
Below is a video preview of the episode:
With the couple's first sex, marriage between Sheldon and Amy could soon be the next step. "The show continues to grow in ways I never would have anticipated. So...sure. Maybe. Certainly not, no or never," said Lorre in the Fox report.
Bailik is thrilled at the thought of her character's relationship finally progressing. "I can say that I prefer doing scenes where Amy and Sheldon aren't broken up versus scenes where they are broken up," the actress wrote on her blog. "What I can say is I'm thrilled we are back together and eager to see what the rest of the season holds for these two lovers!"
Meanwhile, Cinema Blend reported that some viewers could expect a delay in the airing of this week's episode due to the football game between Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the St. Louis Rams. Local CBS stations are running the game, which will overlap with "The Big Bang Theory's" timeslot.
"The Big Bang Theory" airs Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. on CBS.
