Really Big Bang: Sheldon and Amy Go All the Way

First Leonard and Penny finally got married at the beginning of this season of The Big Bang Theory, and now another long-time Big Bang couple is about to take a major step in their relationship. Sheldon and Amy will show that they're all grown up at last when, on an episode set to air December 17, they decide to go all the way for the first time.

The characters have been together for more than five years, but as of right now, they're separated; Amy told Leonard at the end of last season that she needed some space. Her need for space will go away, at least momentarily, in the upcoming episode, as the couple have sex for the first time. True to Sheldon's awkwardly indiscreet nature, the act is no secret well in advance of its actually happening.

"After over five years of dating, we felt the time was right for Sheldon and Amy to finally consummate their relationship," executive producer Steve Molaro said in a statement, "and we're so excited for the audience to see the journey over the next several episodes."

The Dec. 17 episode will also feature the return of Bob Newhart in the role of Arthur Jeffries.