Chuck Lorre Memoir Reveals 'Big Bang Theory' Stars' Outrage Over Pay Cut Request

In his new memoir, "Sitcom," television producer and writer Chuck Lorre recounts significant behind-the-scenes moments from his career, including a notable instance where the main cast of "The Big Bang Theory" reacted with outrage to a proposed pay cut.

Lorre detailed how, towards the end of season three, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch were integrated into the show, becoming series regulars by season four. He believed their inclusion was crucial for the show's longevity, suggesting it might have ended sooner without them. As their roles expanded, network executives Les Moonves and Bruce Rosenblum approached the show's top earners – who were making $1 million per episode plus profit points – to request a 10% pay reduction to accommodate raises for Bialik and Rauch.

According to Lorre's memoir, the established stars were "outraged" by the suggestion. He wrote, "I assumed they’d quickly agree, you know, all for one, one for all." However, the reaction was contrary to his expectation, and the executives "had to slink out of the room, scrotally impaired."

Charlie Sheen's Exit from 'Two and a Half Men'

Lorre also addressed the tumultuous departure of Charlie Sheen from "Two and a Half Men." He described the first seven seasons as enjoyable, but noted that the eighth season saw a significant decline due to Sheen's frequent absences, often attributed to fabricated illnesses or other escalating issues. Lorre recalled a constant state of anxiety on set, exacerbated by Sheen's unpredictable behavior.

On Sheen's final day of filming, Lorre witnessed the actor struggling, unable to remember his lines and needing physical support to remain upright. Lorre stated, "It was clear to everyone that this man, whom we’d all grown to love, was in trouble. I had no choice but to shut down the show."

Following Sheen's public criticisms and refusal to seek help for his issues, Warner Brothers ultimately decided to remove him from the series.

Casting Challenges

The memoir also highlights Lorre's struggles with studio executives over casting choices. He noted that executives initially opposed casting Jon Cryer in "Two and a Half Men" and Kunal Nayyar in "The Big Bang Theory."

A particularly contentious decision involved the casting of Melissa McCarthy in "Mike & Molly." Lorre recounted that CBS executives disliked McCarthy, preferring a "hot young woman" for the role of a character struggling with her weight. One executive even suggested casting a more attractive actress and placing her in a fat suit. Lorre stood firm, insisting on McCarthy, a decision he later felt vindicated by following her success in "Bridesmaids."

Personal Reflections

Lorre also shared personal anecdotes, including his past involvement with the Church of Scientology, where he signed a billion-year contract but only lasted two days. He also reflected on his third marriage, admitting that the significant age gap between him and his wife proved to be a substantial challenge, leading to eventual separation and divorce.

Fox News Digital reached out to representatives for Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Kunal Nayyar, Simon Helberg, and Charlie Sheen for comment.