Young Sheldon to Star in 'Big Bang Theory' Spin-Off
by EG
It looks like CBS is trying to adjust to the idea of life after The Big Bang Theory. News leaked this week that the network is developing a spin-off series that will focus on a younger version of Dr. Sheldon Cooper. The hope, no doubt, is that the new series could ride the venerable series' popularity well into the future.
The Hollywood Reporter reports that Big Bang creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, as well as showrunner Steve Molaro and actor Jim Parsons, are working on the new project. The reports says the series will feature a teen-aged version of Sheldon and will be not unlike the sitcom Malcolm in the Middle.
Parsons will produce the series, but there's no word on whether or not he will appear on camera in it. None of the other cast members of The Big Bang Theory will be involved.
The Big Bang Theory is currently in its tenth season and has not yet been renewed for an eleventh, which seems to be contingent on contract negotiations with the show's stars; the principal cast members are reportedly earning in the vicinity of $1 million per episode at this point. This season, Big Bang continues its long-standing reign as the highest-rated comedy series on TV.