Big Bang Theory Reunion? One Star Says Unlikely, Another Sparks Speculation

The hit TV series Big Bang Theory ran for 12 seasons between 2007 and 2019 before it was canceled much to the dismay of long-term fans.

But, after concluding the highly-successful Young Sheldon series, creator Chuck Lorre has announced that at least two more spin-offs are in the works.

The first, Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage has already been launched on CBS, while a second yet-untitled project is coming soon. The latter will follow the life of Stuart Bloom, the comic store book owner from the original series, played by Kevin Sussman.

But the real question on everyone’s mind is, will any of the original cast return?

In an interview with People magazine, Kaley Cuoco, who plays Penny on the original show, has indicated that she would absolutely be okay with reprising her role.

“I spent 12 years playing that role, and it really set off my career. I owe a lot to that character, to that show, to Chuck Lorre,” the Flight Attendant star told the publication. “It was some of the best years of my life, and some of the most fun I’ve ever had.”

However, not every cast member sees the appeal. Jim Parsons, who played Sheldon Cooper for over a decade, indicated that he had strong feelings against returning.

On the talk show Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace, the narrator and producer of Young Sheldon said that he would “never say never to anything” but that for now it’s a “no.”  

At the Drama League awards earlier this year, the actor gave a similar answer, saying he would only come back as Sheldon through “reincarnation” in the “next lifetime.”

These responses should surprise anyone as the Big Bang Theory was only canceled in 2017 after Parsons wanted out. Most other cast members had already signed up for a 13th season, after reports suggested they would be paid $1m per episode to continue.

Cuoco revealed in Variety that she was shocked to hear that Parsons had decided against filming another season. But the show’s cast had already agreed that if one member wanted to leave, they would stop making the show.

Whether Cuoco, or any of the other cast members actually reprise their roles in the upcoming spin-offs remains to be seen.