'The Big Bang Theory' season 10 news: Sheldon-Amy cohabitation 'experiment' could become permanent

Amy (Mayim Bialik) and Sheldon's (Jim Parsons) five-week cohabitation "experiment" could last much longer than the couple planned.

After finally consummating their years-long on-again off-again romance just a few months ago, Amy and Sheldon took another major step in their relationship in the latest episode of "The Big Bang Theory" season 10.

In "The Cohabitation Experimentation," the couple moved into Penny's (Kaley Cuoco) apartment after Amy's apartment was flooded by a busted water pipe. Sheldon was gently coerced into the situation by — what else? — Leonard (Johnny Galecki) giving the new living arrangements a "Star Trek" analogy and suggesting that it would be the perfect opportunity to gather data on his and Amy's compatibility.

"The Big Bang Theory" showrunner Steve Molaro discussed the couple's new milestone in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter and said that the couple's new setting enables the writers to explore other facets of their relationship.

"The beauty of Sheldon and Amy is so much is new to them," he explained. "Even small, simple things like having people over for brunch for the first time can be an adventure. Which, incidentally, is something we will be exploring," he added.

Molaro also said that just because Amy and Sheldon are now living together doesn't necessarily mean that Amy will be the one to finally "tame" the quirky scientist. According to the "Big Bang Theory" boss, Sheldon's quirks are a huge part of him and Amy would probably be happy with just helping her boyfriend "rein them in" now and then.

As for the possibility of the "cohabitation experimentation" becoming a long-term set-up, Molaro said, "We are open to anything."

"That's what's fun about the experiment," he added. "They could stay together, they could try going back to the way it was, they could end up anywhere. It's exciting," Molaro said.

Meanwhile, "Star Trek" alum William Shatner recently revealed that he had turned down the opportunity to play himself in an episode of "The Big Bang Theory."

The actor revealed to Digital Spy that the creators of the CBS sitcom had approached him for a cameo in a previous season but that he declined the offer as he thought his role "oblique."

"They wanted me to play myself a little obliquely," he said, "and they said it would work out, but I needed more assurance on that."

"The Big Bang Theory" season 10 airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. EDT on CBS.