'The Big Bang Theory' Season 9 Episode 16 Spoilers: The Passive Negative Reaction

After Bernadette (Melissa Rausch) revealed that she was pregnant in the last episode of The Big Bang Theory, entitled The Valentino Submergence, it’s going to be fun to see the reactions of the gang, especially that of Howard Wolowitz (Simon Helberg), the soon to be father. 

For those that missed the episode, Bernadette and Howard planned to spend Valentine’s Day soaking in their new hot tub. Their romantic plans hit a snag when Howard discovered a rabbit inside. The two were able to save the rabbit, who they named Valentino, but shortly after the rabbit bit Howard. Afraid that he might have rabies, Howard left Bernadette with the rabbit while he went to the emergency room.

“We’ll find another time to tell him I’m pregnant,” she said to the rabbit.

Bernadette’s pregnancy comes as a surprise to both the long time viewers and the rest of the characters of the show since she didn’t necessarily want to have children, and Howard’s maturity level played a big part in it.

In the following week’s episode, The Positive Negative Reaction, Bernadette will start spreading the news to everyone. Based on the just released synopsis, the gang celebrates her pregnancy by singing karaoke. Howard on the other hand is convinced he must make more money to support his growing family. 

Showrunner Steve Molaro revealed that Howard will experience a mix of emotions in the coming episodes. This is should not come as a surprise given Howard’s tumultuous relationship with his own father. “We really dig into the entire group and everybody’s reactions to it. They’re mostly positive but obviously with some surprise and concern about what this means for the future,” Molaro added.

Furthermore, Molaro confirmed that Bernadette’s pregnancy storyline will play halfway through season 10.

Season 9 episode 16 of "The Big Bang Theory", which is titled "The Positive Negative Reaction," will air on CBS on Thursday, Feb. 18.