The Most Disliked Episode of The Big Bang Theory According to IMDb
The Big Bang Theory is a sitcom that ran for 12 seasons, and like any long-running show, it had its share of hits and misses. Among its vast collection of episodes, a few have garnered the title of “the worst,” at least according to IMDb ratings. So, which episode do fans consider the absolute low point? Let’s dive in.
Created by Chuck Lorre, The Big Bang Theory features a talented ensemble cast, including Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Kaley Cuoco, Mayim Bialik, and Melissa Rauch, who bring to life characters like Sheldon Cooper, Leonard Hofstadter, Howard Wolowitz, Raj Koothrappali, Penny Hofstadter, Amy Farrah Fowler, and Bernadette Rostenkowski-Wolowitz. The series revolved around the personal lives of these scientists and their experiences, both comical and heartwarming.
According to fan ratings, the ninth-season premiere titled “The Matrimonial Momentum” stands out as the show’s worst episode. However, it’s important to note that it competes closely with the original unaired pilot, which holds a unique place in fans’ memories, though it exists only in fragmented, low-quality clips on YouTube. “The Matrimonial Momentum” takes the crown as the worst among aired episodes, and there are valid reasons for this consensus.
After the dramatic season 8 finale, “The Commitment Deterioration,” where Leonard confesses to kissing another woman, the tension is palpable as Leonard and Penny prepare to tie the knot. Instead of a heartfelt wedding, they end up live-streaming a hasty ceremony without any friends or family watching. Meanwhile, Sheldon is engrossed in his own relationship turmoil, leading to a disjointed narrative. Penny’s lingering resentment and the couple’s tumultuous first night as newlyweds only amplify the episode’s negative reception.
Fans have noted that The Big Bang Theory shines brightest when the entire cast is working together. Unfortunately, “The Matrimonial Momentum” deviated from this formula, overshadowed by a breakup and a couple’s strained marriage. While the show did ultimately improve, this episode remains a glaring blemish on its legacy.
But “The Matrimonial Momentum” isn’t alone in its poor reception. Another episode that fans have found less than favorable is the season 10 installment titled “The Cognition Regeneration,” which shares a dismal 6.8 rating. This episode features a subplot involving Leonard’s irrational jealousy over Penny interacting with her ex-boyfriend.
Following closely is the season 11 episode “The Athenaeum Allocation,” also rated 6.8, which engages viewers in a frustrating argument between Howard and Bernadette about parenting roles. Rounding out the bottom of the barrel is “The Planetarium Collision” from season 12, again sitting at a 6.8 rating. This episode’s lack of compelling storytelling, revolving predominantly around Sheldon undermining Amy’s work to focus on their joint project, likely contributed to its negative feedback.
While The Big Bang Theory certainly offered memorable moments, it’s clear that even successful shows have their missteps. For those interested in revisiting the series or discovering its better parts, you can find The Big Bang Theory streaming on Max now.
