'The Big Bang Theory' Celebrates 100th Episode: 'The Recombination Hypothesis' Will Explore Leonard And Penny's Future

The 100th episode of "The Big Bang Theory" (Thurs., 8 p.m. EST on CBS) might throw some fans for a loop, as the hit CBS sitcom dives into some most uncertain waters, as the show will test the hypothesis of Leonard (Johnny Galecki) and Penny’s (Kaley Cuoco) rocky relationship.

Although the two have recently split, leaving Leonard heartbroken, the unusual episode, titled "The Recombination Hypothesis," airing Jan. 19, will explore Leonard and Penny's past, present and future, as a scientific "what if" time-travelling situation.

“We went back and watched the pilot and we talked about that and we tried to do a 100th episode that connects emotionally to the pilot,” co-creator/EP Bill Prady told The Hollywood Reporter on the red carpet for "The Big Bang Theory's" milestone event. However, he called the episode "a little risky."

Series' star Cuoco echoed Prady's thoughts, calling the episode a creative departure from their normal format.

"This 100th episode is a real departure for us creatively," Cuoco told The Hollywood Reporter. "It’s definitely a different episode than we’ve done. It’s kind of a brain-teaser a bit; you don’t know what’s going on until then end. The end comes and then you realize it all makes sense."

Of course, this could all be heading into the direction of a cliche dream sequence, but Cuoco and the cast weren't going to give anything away.

"I think Leonard is especially hoping for reconciliation," Cuoco explained to The Hollywood Reporter. "The breakup between Leonard and Penny really put things in perspective for him; he’s heartbroken. As much as these two have had their friction, I don’t think they could survive without one another."

The 100th episode of "The Big Bang Theory" will air Thurs., Jan. 19 at 8 p.m. on CBS. Check out photos of the cast celebrating their 100th episode below.

WATCH: The cast reveals a few 100th episode secrets.

Comments

[DocDoc23451]

07:55 PM on 12/30/2011

This has been one of the few truly funny (and family safe) shows in recent history. Sadly, they have started using sex as part of the show. For instance, having Leonard in bed and kissing his Indian girlfriend, Pria- clearly not necessary for the humor. I hope they do not continue down this path. I would like to be able to continue to enjoy this show with my family and have the youngsters oblivious to the sexual innuendos.

[richardcheese02]

08:57 AM on 12/30/2011

I didn't watch this show until they syndicated it on TBS. Now I am hooked! This show is so funny

[Carol Tolhurst]

03:14 PM on 12/28/2011

don't mess with the show.

[taterted81]

02:04 PM on 12/28/2011

(knock knock)... Penny...(knock knock)...Penny...(knock knock)...Penny.

[gsapples]

05:03 PM on 12/28/2011

Leonard: (whispering to Penny) Don't answer him.
Sheldon: I can hear you with my Spock ears.

[BlackJAC]

06:33 PM on 12/28/2011

I'm not insane; my mother had me tested.

[OAK STREET MAFIA]

01:45 PM on 12/28/2011

Misleading title: One hundred episodes ago,I thought this was an exotic adult title. I was thinking it was a group of large folks hooking up with a single person.

[taterted81]

02:05 PM on 12/28/2011

Misleading title or head in the gutter?

[BlackJAC]

06:33 PM on 12/28/2011

Someone did make a pornographic parody version of it.