'The Big Bang Theory' Season 8 is officially underway, as production for the installment began August 6, in preparation for a September 22 premiere date.

According to reports, the stars of the show, Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki and Kaley Cuoco have already agreed to their new three-year contracts which results in an estimated $90 million.

The number is large because the three stars are said to be earning $1 million per episode, over three seasons. Since seasons 8-10 are said to be comprised of 72 episodes, they could take in $72 million, plus their production bonuses and deals.

The recent reports also solidified that rumors about Parsons leaving the show were not true after all. With his signature on the new contract, it seems that Sheldon will remain a prominent character in the series.

The next step that producers aim to take is closing out the negotiations with the last two original cast members, Simon Helberg and Kunal Nayyar. Fans hope that contract deals will be finalized soon, and the stars of the show can begin their work on Season 8. Additionally, reports claim that if the two remaining contracts are signed relatively soon, then Season 8 production will only be one week behind schedule.

In terms of spoilers for the next season, Chuck Lorre, executive producer and co-creator, spilled some beans about Penny in the upcoming installment. Apparently, Penny will be venturing into a different career when the show returns, "Penny has an interesting arc where she puts acting down. She gets a shot to be a pharmaceutical rep at Bernadette's (Melissa Rauch) company," he said.