Simon Helberg — forever remembered as the eccentric and endearing Howard Wolowitz — recently opened up about how he truly feels regarding his time on The Big Bang Theory and the ever-growing web of spin-offs the sitcom has inspired. Surprisingly, Helberg confessed that he actually felt relieved no one ever attempted to build a spin-off solely around his character.
Despite Howard’s immense development over the show’s twelve-year run — from an overconfident flirt to a loving husband, father, and astronaut — Helberg believes his story reached a natural conclusion. “Howard’s journey felt complete,” he once explained. “He started as this guy desperate for validation, and he ended up with love, family, and genuine self-respect. I don’t think there’s more to say — at least not in a way that would honor where he ended.”
It’s a fascinating contrast to Jim Parsons, whose portrayal of Sheldon Cooper continues to thrive through Young Sheldon, the Emmy-winning prequel series that became a hit in its own right. The success of that show only reinforced how powerful The Big Bang Theory’s characters remain in pop culture — but it also raised questions about which other characters might deserve their own follow-up stories.
Now, that question seems to have an answer. Chuck Lorre, the creative force behind both The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon, is reportedly developing Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, a new comedy centered on Kevin Sussman’s lovable comic book store owner, Stuart Bloom. Long a fan-favorite supporting character, Stuart’s awkward charm and endless misfortunes made him one of the show’s most underrated gems. For many, this spin-off feels like poetic justice — giving Stuart the narrative attention he never quite received during the main series.
Still, Helberg hasn’t completely shut the door on revisiting Howard. While he insists that a full-on spin-off wouldn’t feel right, he’s teased the possibility of a small cameo or reunion appearance. “If there’s ever a moment where it makes sense — where it feels like Howard would genuinely belong — I’d be open to it,” he said. “I love the character, and I love the people who made him who he was.”
For fans, that glimmer of hope is enough. After all, The Big Bang Theory remains one of television’s most beloved sitcoms, and the idea of seeing Wolowitz back on screen, even for a brief moment, would be a nostalgic gift. Whether or not that ever happens, Helberg’s reflections remind us why the show — and his quirky, unforgettable Howard — will forever hold a special place in TV history.
