The Big Bang Theory universe is expanding once more.
A new spinoff of the long-running sitcom, which followed physicists Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) and Leonard Hofstadter (Johnny Galecki) as well as their circle of friends, has been ordered to series at HBO Max, the network confirmed in a July 9 press release.
The project marks the fourth series in the TV franchise, which also includes Young Sheldon and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage. This time, the plot would focus on the hijinks of the Stuart Bloom (Kevin Sussman), an acquaintance who became increasingly prominent in The Big Bang Theory’s later seasons.
“Comic book store owner Stuart Bloom is tasked with restoring reality after he breaks a device built by Sheldon and Leonard,” the release read, “accidentally bringing about a multiverse Armageddon.”
Notably, the release also teased appearances by “alternate-universe versions of characters” from the original series—which aired on CBS from 2007 to 2019—but warned that “as the title implies, things don’t go well.”
In addition to Sussman, Lauren Lapkus, Brian Posehn and John Ross Bowie, all of whom recurred on the flagship series, are reprising their roles for the new show. Of course, it wouldn’t be the first time a fan favorite from TheBig Bang Theory returned to the small screen.
In May 2024, Parsons appeared in character alongside Mayim Bialik, who played his wife Amy Farrah Fowler in the original series, during the series finale of Young Sheldon after serving as narrator throughout the show’s seven-season run.
“It was very, very special to do that,” he told E! News at the time. “You shoot that final episode and it’s wrapped for you. Then a couple of months later, it wraps for the rest of the world and it’s a very weird feeling to flood over you again like that.”
But the Emmy winner cautioned fans not to get their hopes up for more Sheldon going forward.
“Never say never to anything,” he said. “Life is long, God willing. But I don’t think so.”
For a look back at The Big Bang Theory’s series finale, keep scrolling.
The End
“Final group scene,” Kaley Cuoco posted with heart emojis. “That’s a wrap.”
Boxed Up
“This set. Getting packed up,” Kevin Sussman posted.
Friends Forever
“The friends you make along the way… One of the best things about showing up to Stage 25 all these years has been seeing @themelissarauch’s smiling face,” Kevin Sussman posted. Melissa Rauch reposted and added, “While Stuart may have taken up residence in the Wolowitz household @kevsussman took up residence in a special place in my heart.”
Knock, Knock
“Knock, knock, knock, thank you…Thank you, apartment 4A, for being a home to so many dreams come true, to so many friendships made. And thank YOU, ALL of you – yes, YOU, reading this right NOW! As we get ready to tape our final episode tonight, to walk in and out of this apartment door for the last time, it is hard to find the words to articulate what a profound experience this has been. But the words “love” and “gratitude” come to mind… so love and gratitude to all of you. ALL of you. Thank you,” Jim Parsons posted. “(oh! and happy birthday to @sanctionedjohnnygalecki and @kunalkarmanayyar – talk about good timing…may your next 12 years be as vibrant and wonderful as the last 12 years in which i’ve had the pleasure to know and work with you both)”
Nap Buds
“Gonna miss napping next to @missmayim. We nap in adjacent dressing rooms, so we simulated what that would look like if you removed the wall. Did I mention that Mayim’s room is also where I’ve had some of my most productive psychotherapy sessions? Thank you Dr. Bialik,” Kevin Sussman posted.
Goodnight!
“Goodnight, Pasadena,” Melissa Rauch posted.
Inspiring Passion
“#SimonHelberg and I have logged so many hours talking about acting and theater and film and everything we’re passionate about and have been blessed to be able to do for a living. One of the funniest people I’ve ever met, on screen and off. With all the phenomenal success of the show, Simon’s passion for the work has never changed. Still exploring. Still asking questions. Still doing spot on impressions of Christopher Walken that make you spit your milk out. Love this guy,” Kevin Sussman posted.
Dr. Hofstadter
“Leonard Hofstadter, PhD,” Johnny Galecki posted.
