The Big Bang Theorystar Jim Parsons has shared his thoughts on potentially reprising the role of Sheldon Cooper for a third time. He played the neurotic character in all 12 seasons of the iconic sitcom, later reprising it as the narrator of the seven-season prequel showYoung Sheldon, in which he appeared on camera during the series finale. However, he is not currently set to appear in the upcoming untitledBig Bang Theoryspinoff, which is not officially greenlit but is in development with returning actors Kevin Sussman, Brian Posehn, and Lauren Lapkus attached to star.
PerDeadline, Jim Parsons recently appeared onWho’s Talking To Chris Wallace?, where he spoke about the possibility of returning to the role of Sheldon Cooper once more. He saidhe did not have interest at the time of the interview, but he added that he would “never say never,” reflecting that “life just changes so much.” He seems unsure that a new version of the show would be able to capture the “lightning in a bottle” of the original show. Read Parsons' full quote below:
As we sit here now, no, but I also I would I never say never to anything, because life just changes so much. You know, one of the things is that it was so special as what it was as what it is. And they call it lightning in a bottle for a reason, and you’re able to be certain it wouldn’t be that. And so why would we be doing it? I don’t know… that’s how I feel on that right now. But like I say, God willing, life is very long.
What This Means For The Big Bang Theory
Sheldon’s Time On The Show Could Truly Be Over
What Parsons’ comments seem to reveal is that he has no intention of reprising the role again in the foreseeable future. However,it remains to be seen if any of his co-stars will be tempted backto reprise their roles in cameos in the new show, which would be the first spinoff to take place after theBig Bang Theoryseries finale. This could include Kaley Cuoco as Penny, Simon Helberg as Howard, Kunal Nayyar as Raj, Melissa Rauch as Bernadette, and Mayim Bialiuk as Amy, who recently reprised her role opposite Parsons in theYoung Sheldonfinale.
Johnny Galecki, who played Leonard Hofstadter inThe Big Bang Theory, likely will not return, as he retired from Hollywood shortly after the series ended in 2019.
This move makes sense for the actor, whohas played Sheldon Cooper either on camera or in voiceover for 17 straight years, asThe Big Bang Theoryseason 1 premiered in 2007 and theYoung Sheldonseries finaleconcluded the popular spinoff series in 2024. Immediately diving back into the role, even for a cameo, might be a distraction from his other work, which includes a role in the upcoming Ryan O’Connell comedyJust by Looking at Himin addition to recent performances in projects includingSpoiler Alert,The Boys in the Band, andHollywood.
Our Take On Jim Parsons' Big Bang Theory Comments
This Could Be The Best Thing For The Franchise
Ultimately, Parsons' temporary or perhaps permanent absence from the franchise could prove to be the best thing. While Sheldon’s return was likely necessary to help the prequel series become a hit, ithas already launched another spinoff with the sequel seriesGeorgie and Mandy’s First Marriage, which premieres on October 17. By keeping adult Sheldon away from that show and theBig Bang Theoryspinoff, the upcoming shows have a chance to prove their worth without links to the original core cast, which could allow the franchise to thrive and enjoy even greater longevity in the future.
The Big Bang Theory
Cast
The Big Bang Theory: This sitcom follows a group of socially awkward scientists and their interactions with each other and the people around them. Centered on physicists Sheldon and Leonard, the series humorously explores friendship, romance, and the quirks of life among an eclectic group of academics.
