HBO Max’s The Big Bang Theory spinoff Stuart Saves the Universe is one of the most anticipated shows on the 2026 TV slate—and Kaley Cuoco may have just fueled the biggest fan theory yet. While promoting her new MGM+ thriller Vanished, the actress was asked whether she’d reprise Penny, and her reaction spoke louder than any official confirmation.
Cuoco offered a playful dodge—“Big eyes! I don’t know what that tells you”—but viewers couldn’t help noticing her exaggerated, wide-eyed response. It wasn’t the look of someone shutting down rumors; it was the look of someone carefully not confirming something very real. Fans quickly interpreted it as a sign that Penny’s return is all but inevitable.
Cuoco has repeatedly said Penny remains one of her favorite roles and credits the character with changing her life. While nothing is confirmed, her not-so-subtle reaction has convinced many fans that Penny will pop up—somehow—in Stuart’s chaotic new universe.