CBS is interested in a potential spinoff of The Big Bang Theory, which may dive into the history of a central character.
The spinoff would focus on everybody’s favorite emotionally stunted genius, Sheldon Cooper. According to Variety, Warner Bros. TV and CBS are nearing a deal for the script, which would look back at Sheldon’s years as a budding teenage physicist in the homey recesses of Texas.
Steve Molaro, showrunner of The Big Bang Theory, is set to write the script and will also serve as executive producer on the potential spinoff. Jim Parsons, who stars as Sheldon on the series and has won multiple Emmy Awards in the role, is also attached as an executive producer, as is Chuck Lorre.
The Big Bang Theory spinoff focused on Sheldon’s teenaged years might be a way for CBS to continue the gravy train of its highly-rated comedy, without the extremely expensive talent of Parsons, Johnny Galecki, and Kaley Cuoco. The show could also take advantage of Laurie Metcalf, who has appeared frequently on The Big Bang Theory as Sheldon’s devout, no-nonsense, but deeply understanding mother.
A spinoff could also harvest the current hunger for ’80s nostalgia, which series like The Goldbergs and Stranger Things have recently piqued. Everyone loves a nerd in the ’80s, and Sheldon Cooper may just fit CBS’s bill.