Chuck Lorre details Charlie Sheen's exit from Two and a Half Men

In excerpts from his upcoming memoir, “Sitcom,” series creator Chuck Lorre details the chaotic final days of the CBS sitcom “Two and a Half Men.” Lorre describes a period of “sustained dread” and “constant anxiety” for the cast and crew due to the unpredictable behavior of star Charlie Sheen.

Lorre recalls a specific final scene filmed with actress Melanie Lynskey, noting that Sheen was unable to remember his lines and had to use furniture to remain upright. Lorre stated that Lynskey was “terrified” and that it became clear to everyone that Sheen was in trouble, leaving Lorre with “no choice but to shut down the show.”

The memoir also touches on the production's decline, including Sheen's frequent absences and erratic excuses. Following the production shutdown, Lorre describes a public feud with Sheen that occurred after the actor was encouraged to enter rehab. Despite the past conflict, Lorre noted in a 2023 interview that the two have since reconciled.