HBO Max has officially greenlit a surprising new addition to the Big Bang Theory franchise. Titled Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, the upcoming spinoff shifts focus to Stuart Bloom, the eccentric and soft-spoken comic book store owner played by Kevin Sussman. This series marks the first time the franchise ventures into full-fledged science fiction, introducing a bold multiverse storyline.
The plot follows Stuart as he accidentally triggers a multiverse collapse after mishandling a device originally built by Sheldon and Leonard. To fix the chaos, he assembles an unlikely crew that includes his girlfriend Denise, eccentric geologist Bert, and antagonistic physicist Barry Kripke. Together, they must navigate alternate realities and face bizarre versions of themselves and their old friends in an attempt to restore order.
Returning cast members include Kevin Sussman, Lauren Lapkus, Brian Posehn, and John Ross Bowie, all stepping into expanded roles. The project is created by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, with Zak Penn, known for his work on science fiction films, joining as head writer and executive producer. The series is being produced by Warner Bros. Television and will stream exclusively on HBO Max.
Unlike Young Sheldon, which focused on family and character development, this spinoff embraces high-concept sci-fi with imaginative world-building and visual effects. According to Chuck Lorre, the show aims to push the creative boundaries of what a sitcom spinoff can be while still retaining the humor and charm that made the original series a success.
Although no official release date has been announced, production is already underway. The series is expected to premiere sometime in late 2025 or early 2026.
This marks the fourth entry in the growing Big Bang Theory universe. With a new tone, fresh premise, and familiar faces in unfamiliar roles, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe promises to bring a quirky yet cinematic evolution to the franchise’s storytelling.
