The popular CBS sitcom series "The Big Bang Theory" is one big step closer to its scheduled Aug. 6 production date for the next season after hitting some bumps along the way.

According to Deadline, the three central characters of the show have agreed to their new contracts that would cover three more seasons. After intense negotiations with Jim Parsons (Sheldon), Kaley Cuoco (Penny), Johnny Galecki (Leonard) and their agents, producer Warner Bros. TV closed the deal on Sunday, satisfying the financial parity among the three actors, which has been the central issue that almost stalled production.

While the trio could not be reached for comments, rumors suggest that they have hit the salary level of the "Friends" actors at $1 million per episode. With three more seasons slated, the three stars would be receiving that much for 72 half-hour episodes.

Moreover, speculations also suggest that the door to a potential Season 11 is not closed. The huge increase in salary is almost triple their original $350,000 per episode. In addition, their deals are in fact more than the simple straight $1 million each but would also include signing bonuses, production deals and a piece of the show's earnings.

Given these figures, Parsons, Galecki and Cuoco are set to earn at least $90 million per year during the course of the contract with the possibility of making over $100 million if the show retains its strength in the industry.

Meanwhile, co-stars Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch are already on board for the upcoming season, and the remaining original cast members of the gang, Simon Helberg and Kunal Nayyar, are still in ongoing negotiations.

The two are reportedly renegotiating together to close in the salary gap with their fellow members of the original cast. If negotiations are successful, Season 8 filming and production will be delayed by only a week.