The Big Bang Theory returns: Spin-off details and which original stars might come back

What we know about The Big Bang Theory spin-off

The development of a new series was first revealed in 2024. It’s titled Stuart Fails to Save the Universe and will be released on HBO Max.

The plot is set in the future and follows comic book store owner Stuart Bloom. According to the official synopsis, he accidentally breaks a device created by Sheldon and Leonard, triggering widespread chaos across the multiverse.

Alongside his team, Stuart tries to "fix reality," but nothing goes as planned. Along the way, the characters will encounter alternate versions of the beloved characters fans already know from The Big Bang Theory.

What we know about The Big Bang Theory spin-off (still from the series)

The project is being developed by the original creators, Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, along with Avengers screenwriter Zack Penn.

Lorre, the show’s creator, said he wanted to create something radical that would push him out of his comfort zone — something the characters from The Big Bang Theory would love, hate, and argue about.

Who will star in the new series

Kevin Sussman will reprise his lead role as Stuart Bloom. Lauren Lapkus (Denise), Brian Posehn (Bert), and John Ross Bowie (Barry Kripke) will also return as their original characters.

In addition, the cast includes Ryan Cartwright, Josh Brener, and Tommy Walker.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Official Kevin Sussman (@kevsussman)

Will the original stars return?

The possible return of the main actors from the original series remains one of the biggest mysteries of the spin-off. There have been no official confirmations yet, but statements from some actors and the project’s description do not rule out a comeback.

For instance, Kaley Cuoco, who played Penny, recently hinted in an interview that she cannot confirm or deny her involvement in the project. She emphasized that being part of the show changed her career and that her character remains one of her favorites.

She added that she would never forget her time on the series and believes that everything started there.

Meanwhile, Mayim Bialik, who played Amy Farrah Fowler, stated in January last year in interviews with various media outlets that she had not received any offers to appear in the spin-off at that time, but she would not be opposed to returning to her beloved role.

Earlier, Bialik and her former co-star from the series, Jim Parsons (Sheldon Cooper), appeared in the final episode of Young Sheldon in May 2024, revealing what happened to the couple after the original series ended.

Amy and Sheldon (still from Young Sheldon)

Actor Kunal Nayyar (Raj) said last summer that, in his opinion, it’s still too early for a return. However, he wouldn’t mind reuniting with the "family."

As for the other characters, the new series’ description suggests that appearances by beloved characters in some form may still be possible.

You might also be interested in:

• Which Ukrainian film is vying for a British "Oscar."

• Emilia Clarke angers Ukrainians with her new role in a series.

• What we know about season 3 of Euphoria and its release date.

Sources: TVLine, Us Weekly, Entertainment Tonight, and Deadline.