In a big yet unsurprising move, CBS has renewed ratings juggernaut The Big Bang Theory for three more seasons.  Though networks typically renew shows on a season-by-season basis, there are a few cases in which multiple-season pick-ups have been ordered (most notably Fox’s Glee), and in the case of The Big Bang Theory it feels quite warranted given its ratings performance.  The CBS sitcom just so happens to be the highest-rated comedy on television and has been for some time, and its current seventh season has been scoring the show’s highest ratings yet.

Variety reports that the three-season renewal for The Big Bang Theory will keep the series on air through the 2016-17 season, and contract renewal negotiations with key cast members are ongoing.  The Big Bang Theory is executive produced by Chuck Lorre, and the report notes that CBS is also expected to renew Lorre’s other sitcoms on the network: Two and a Half Men, Mike & Molly, and freshman series Mom.