I happened to see the pilot ...

• Jul 23, 2007 04:00 AM ET
• by Matt Roush

Question: I happened to see the pilot for CBS' The Big Bang Theory in Las Vegas last week, and I absolutely loved it. I have not laughed that much during a new sitcom pilot in a long time. Do you think this show has a chance to stick? I hope it lasts, because it is really funny.
Answer: The good news is that it's on the right network (CBS, which specializes in multi-camera laugh-track sitcoms), and with Two and a Half Men's Chuck Lorre behind it, CBS may be inclined to show some patience if it doesn't take off right away. But I don't see why it wouldn't. It's a classic ugly-duckling buddy sitcom about two geeky geniuses (Roseanne's Johnny Galecki and terrific new find Jim Parsons as, respectively, Leonard and Sheldon, an homage to legendary TV producer Sheldon Leonard) and the pretty young thing (8 Simple Rules' Kaley Cuoco) who moves in next door. The guys are funny, especially the deadpan fussbudget played by Parsons, and their nerdy friends in the supporting cast score laughs as well. It's not likely to rival the NBC comedies for acclaim and awards, but it seems a good fit on Mondays. The only hitch is that CBS has too few slots for too many comedies, so the show's ultimate future may depend on how the mediocre Rules of Engagement holds up in its first full season and on how CBS weighs Theory's potential against the terrific The New Adventures of Old Christine (which is on hiatus until mid-season).