: The episode marks the first appearance of Penny's mother, Susan (played by Katey Sagal), and her brother, Randall (Jack McBrayer). Susan is highly anxious that their family will be seen as "white trash" due to Randall's history of manufacturing and selling meth.
: Much of the episode deals with the awkward aftermath of Leonard’s father, Alfred, and Sheldon’s mother, Mary, leaving dinner together the night before. Sheldon is particularly distressed, going as far as to ask Alfred if he "defiled" his mother. [S10E1] The Conjugal Conjecture
: Sagal’s role as Penny’s mother was a nod to her previous role as Kaley Cuoco’s mother on the sitcom 8 Simple Rules . : The episode marks the first appearance of
: While fans appreciated the guest stars, some critics felt the episode was overcrowded with characters, leaving little time for deep interaction between the various family members. Sheldon is particularly distressed, going as far as
" The Conjugal Conjecture " is the season 10 premiere of , which originally aired on September 19, 2016. The episode picks up immediately after the season 9 finale, focusing on Leonard and Penny’s second wedding ceremony—intended to be a more traditional celebration for their friends and family. Key Plot Points
: A subplot begins involving Howard being tracked down by Colonel Williams (Dean Norris) from the Air Force, who is interested in the quantum gyroscope he, Leonard, and Sheldon invented.
The episode was a massive ratings hit, viewed by over during its original broadcast.