What’s Worth Watching: The Big Bang Theory’s Brain Games

The Big Bang Theory, “The Anxiety Optimization” (Thursday, Jan. 29, 8/7c, CBS)

Over the last eight seasons, Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) has turned annoying his roommate, Leonard (Johnny Galecki), and their friends into a science. But tonight he fears his lifestyle has become too comfortable, and in order to achieve a scientific breakthrough, he challenges those around him to make him as miserable as possible. Will somebody sit in his coveted spot on the couch? Will parts of the Roommate Agreement be broken? The possibilities are endless. Meanwhile, Wolowitz (Simon Helberg) invents an embarrassing game at Raj’s (Kunal Nayyar) expense, and with guest star Laura Spencer returning as Emily, it could mean trouble for Raj’s love life.