A source close to The Big Bang Theory star Jim Parsons claims the actor isn’t too keen on returning as Sheldon Cooper.
Jim Parsons rose to fame for his performance as Sheldon Cooper in the sitcom The Big Bang Theory. The actor debuted in the role back in 2007 and continued to appear in the hit sitcom for the entirety of its twelve-season run. He also reprised the role most recently for the finale of the spin-off/prequel series Young Sheldon.
Despite being associated with the character for more than fifteen years, Parsons is reportedly looking to move beyond the role of the adorable theoretical physicist. With another spin-off series in development, fans wondered whether Parsons might reprise his iconic role. However, if sources are to be believed, Parsons is unlikely to return as Sheldon, and here is what you need to know.
Jim Parsons Reportedly Unlikely to Return For New The Big Bang Theory Spin-off
Jim Parsons played the role of Sheldon Cooper for twelve seasons of The Big Bang Theory. He also won four Primetime Emmy Awards and one Golden Globe for his performance. Parsons last appeared as the character in the series finale of Young Sheldon.
In October 2024, it was revealed that another spin-off starring Kevin Sussman, Lauren Lapkus, and Brian Posehn, who played recurring roles in the original series was in development. However, according to a report from In Touch Weekly, Parsons had no plans to sign to reprise the role in the spin-off.
I don’t know that playing Sheldon, which he did for so long, brings the same inspiration anymore.
A source close to the actor reportedly made the above claim, suggesting that Parsons wasn’t too keen to revisit the character.
The source also stated that Parsons, who was once the highest-paid actor on TV, is in a position to reject projects depending on what inspired him. However, the source argued that a large paycheck might be enough to change Parsons’ mind about reprising the role.
Jim Parsons Previously Turned Down the Idea of Rebooting The Big Bang Theory
Parsons recently appeared on an episode of Who’s Talking To Chris Wallace? where the actor discussed several of his upcoming projects. At the same time, the actor was also asked about a potential reboot of The Big Bang Theory.
While Parsons did not rule out the idea completely, he wasn’t very eager about it. He said (via The Sun):
As we sit here now, no, but I also, I would never say never to anything, because life just changes so much.
From Parsons’ words, it is evident that the actor isn’t too excited at the prospect of more Sheldon Cooper. His appearance in the Young Sheldon series finale provided fans with a glimpse of Sheldon’s life after the original show’s run ended, serving as a nice bookend to Parsons’ time as the character.
In 2024, Parsons appears to be more focused on his stage career, appearing in Mother Play. Most recently, he stars in the role of the Stage Manager in the Broadway revival of the acclaimed play Our Town, appearing alongside Katie Holmes. Hence, it seems Parsons might not have any plans to return to television just yet.
