Kaley Cuoco is opening up about an on-set beauty decision she now laughs about — but definitely wouldn’t repeat.
The actress, who played Penny throughout The Big Bang Theory’s 12-season run, revealed that her first experience with Botox didn’t go quite as planned. In a February 2026 episode of the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast, Cuoco shared that she decided to get Botox injections in her forehead just before filming an episode of the CBS sitcom.
According to People magazine, the results ended up interfering with her performance. Cuoco explained that the treatment limited her facial movement, making it difficult to deliver jokes that relied on expressive reactions — something Penny was known for.
“There is a scene where I have to do this thing with my face, and I could not move it,” Cuoco recalled. “The fact that no one said anything — they probably were thinking it — I couldn’t believe how bad it looked. I was literally doing these jokes and nothing moved. My forehead didn’t move, and it looked like I was trying to move it.”
The experience was enough to make her rethink her approach. “That’s when I thought, ‘Whoa. Let’s calm it down,’” she added, noting that the procedure happened about halfway through the show’s run.
While recording the podcast, the 40-year-old actress clarified that she’s not against Botox entirely — she just avoids her forehead now. “I have to express with my forehead,” she explained.
Cuoco has previously been open about other cosmetic procedures, including breast augmentation surgery and a rhinoplasty, emphasizing her preference for honesty when discussing personal choices.
Kaley Cuoco Hints at a Possible Return as Penny
Cuoco also recently sparked excitement among fans by hinting that she may reprise her iconic role in the upcoming Big Bang Theory spin-off, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe. During a January 2026 interview with Entertainment Tonight, she was asked whether Penny might appear in the series. While she didn’t confirm anything, her playful smile and widened eyes suggested the door isn’t closed.
Reflecting on her time on the original series, Cuoco expressed deep gratitude for the experience and for creator Chuck Lorre.
“It changed my life — professionally and personally,” she said. “What a journey. I learned so much. I met Chuck Lorre. I’ll never forget my time on that show. I truly believe everything came from that.”
For fans, it’s a reminder that Penny — and the impact of The Big Bang Theory — may not be finished just yet.