The Big Bang Theory franchise is expanding with another spinoff, this time focusing on Stuart (Kevin Sussman), with his girlfriend Denise (Lauren Lapkus) and Caltech scientist Bert (Brian Posehn) also returning. While these characters are at the center of the new series, there’s always the possibility that other beloved characters from the original Big Bang Theory might pop up. So, what have the original cast members said about returning for the new spinoff?
After the show’s 12-year run, many of the main cast members have moved on to other projects, but a few have hinted that they’d be open to revisiting their iconic characters for special appearances, or even more.
Jim Parsons (Sheldon Cooper)
While Sheldon’s departure marked the end of an era for The Big Bang Theory, Jim Parsons has made it clear that he’s not ruling out a return. In a recent interview, Parsons explained that although he’s not actively seeking a comeback, he’d never say never. “One of the things is that it was so special as what it was. They call it lightning in a bottle for a reason,” he said. Even after his exit, Parsons has remained involved with the franchise, narrating Young Sheldon and briefly appearing in its finale.
Kaley Cuoco (Penny Hofstadter)
Cuoco, who portrayed the lovable Penny, has expressed her deep affection for the role and the show. “It really set off my career. I owe a lot to that character,” she said. Cuoco has already made a return of sorts by appearing in Young Sheldon’s finale, and she’s enthusiastic about revisiting Penny in the new spinoff. “I would absolutely reprise that role. 100%,” she confirmed, making it clear that she has fond memories of her time on the show and would love to return.
Johnny Galecki (Leonard Hofstadter)
Galecki, who played Penny’s husband Leonard, has yet to comment on whether he would reprise his role for the new spinoff. There’s one pressing reason fans are hoping for a return—Galecki’s Leonard is the subject of a bizarre theory suggesting that his character is dead, based on clues in Young Sheldon. A mention or cameo from Galecki would put that theory to rest.
Kunal Nayyar (Raj Koothrappali)
Kunal Nayyar, who portrayed Raj, has expressed some ambivalence about returning to the Big Bang world, even before the spinoff was announced. “It feels a little too soon,” he said a few months ago. However, with the spinoff now in development, it’s unclear if Nayyar’s stance has changed. He has been busy with various projects since Big Bang Theory ended, and his character’s storyline ended on an open note, which could make for an interesting return.
Simon Helberg (Howard Wolowitz)
Simon Helberg, who played the astronaut Howard, has also remained silent on the possibility of a return. While he did provide a voiceover for an episode of Young Sheldon, it seems like his character’s arc was neatly wrapped up by the end of the original series. Howard is shown to have a family and career, making it unclear where his character could go next.
Melissa Rauch (Bernadette Rostenkowski-Wolowitz)
Melissa Rauch, who played Howard’s wife Bernadette, is currently involved in another Big Bang reunion of sorts—on Night Court, where she’s starring alongside fellow Big Bang actors Kunal Nayyar and Mayim Bialik. Although Rauch hasn’t commented on the new spinoff, her current involvement in a Big Bang reunion might suggest that she’s open to appearing again.
Mayim Bialik (Amy Farrah Fowler)
Mayim Bialik, who played Sheldon’s wife Amy, has already made an appearance in Young Sheldon alongside Jim Parsons. Though she hasn’t spoken directly about returning for the new spinoff, her willingness to reprise her role in Young Sheldon hints at an openness to future appearances. Amy’s story in the finale of The Big Bang Theory left room for more, particularly regarding her life with Sheldon and their children.
With so many cast members expressing interest in returning in some capacity, the new spinoff might just have plenty of familiar faces popping in and out, much to the delight of fans.
