7 The Big Bang Theory Moments That Still Make Fans Tear Up

Even after all these years, these scenes still pack a punch.

1. Howard's Letter from His Dad (The Closet Reconfiguration, Season 6)

Howard Wolowitz finds an old letter his dad left him before walking out on the family. He's been holding onto it for years, never mustering the courage to read it. So what happens? Sheldon, of course, reads it without permission. Howard is furious at first, but the group comes together to share multiple versions of what the letter could contain, giving Howard the option to believe the one he likes best. One version suggests that his dad left to protect him. Another implies he regretted leaving every day. Are you crying already? I sure am.

2. Penny and Leonard's Wedding (The Matrimonial Momentum, Season 9)

Leonard and Penny finally tie the knot in a Vegas wedding chapel. While they are elated at the altar, things quickly turn sour. Leonard confesses that he kissed another girl during his North Sea expedition years ago. They proceed with the wedding, but you can cut the tension with a knife. Penny smiles but looks visibly hurt, and Leonard is guilt-ridden. They get married, but it's not the happily-ever-after we were hoping for.

3. Sheldon's Birthday Present for Amy (The Opening Night Excitation, Season 9)

We know Sheldon Cooper isn't the most emotionally expressive guy, but this moment? Absolute tear-jerker. Sheldon faces a dilemma when the opening night of the new Star Wars movie falls on Amy's birthday. At first, he's all set to ditch her for the movie. Then he has a conversation with Arthur Jeffries' (Professor Proton's) ghost, who advises him to be a good boyfriend. Sheldon surprises Amy by showing up at her door, telling her that his present to her would be to be intimate for the first time. The two share an incredibly tender and awkward moment.

4. Howard and Bernadette’s Wedding (The Countdown Reflection, Season 5)

Remember when Howard was sent to space? They had originally planned a simple courthouse wedding, but after realizing they might never see each other again, they hastily arrange a rooftop wedding with their friends officiating. During the ceremony, they exchange their brief vows, Howard's voice quivering, Bernadette on the verge of tears. Shortly thereafter, Howard is finally on his way to the International Space Station as his friends cheer him on.

5. Amy and Sheldon's Breakup (The Commitment Determination, Season 8)

It's tough to see any long-standing couple hit a roadblock, but when it's Shamy? Man, that stings. After five years together, Amy tells Sheldon she needs to step back and reevaluate their relationship. She does this over Skype, and it's devastating to see the realization dawn on Sheldon's face. After the call, Sheldon is left alone in his apartment, holding a ring, revealing he had plans to propose.

6. The Group's Final Dinner Together (The Stockholm Syndrome, Season 12)

In the final episode, everyone gathers for one last dinner at the apartment. They're all around the familiar living room, dining on takeout, just like old times. It's a simple scene, no grand speeches or dramatic actions, but knowing it's their last meal together as a group? That'll make anyone's eyes misty.

7. Howard Finds Out He's Going to Be a Father (The Positive Negative Reaction, Season 9)

It starts off then Bernadette surprises Howard with the news that she's pregnant. Howard's immediate reaction is one of sheer panic; he even tries to escape by suggesting they aren't ready for kids. But by the end of the episode, the news sinks in and he comes around.