With Yong Sheldon ending on a high note, it’s unclear what the future holds for The Big Bang Theory IP. While back in 2023, it was reported that a new spin-off was in the works, which will be overseen by creator Chuck Lorre, the TBBT creator walked back on these reports later that year.
But this isn’t to say that a spin-off might never transpire, as following the nature of the sitcom, there are definitely more stories to tell, and one possible spin-off can be about Old Sheldon. Moreover, we might also have the right fit in Michael Keaton to be Jim Parsons’ successor.
Jim Parsons Entertained the Idea of a Michael Keaton-Led Old Sheldon Spin-off
The idea of an Old Sheldon spin-off starring Michael Keaton has been floating amongst fans for quite some time now following the Batman star’s resemblance to Jim Parsons. During his appearance on The Tonight Show, Parsons acknowledged the resemblance between him and Keaton’s younger self and also entertained the idea of the Old Sheldon spin-off.
It is interesting. There’s definitely a resemblance. The one thing I will say is Michael Keaton — that really looks like Michael Keaton still, doesn’t it? I would be so excited to have Michael Keaton added to the lineage of Sheldon portrayers. I would be amazed
Being a lifelong fan of Keaton, who too started out as a sitcom star, it’s reasonable to see why The Big Bang Theory actor would be thrilled to have the Batman star play the character.
However, the actor stressed he “doubt that’s going to happen”, which is understandable following Keaton’s extremely stuffed schedule, who is set to appear in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice later this year.
It’s Too Soon for The Big Bang Theory Said Kunal Nayyar
Although an Old Sheldon spin-off, starring Michael Keaton seems like a great idea, fans aren’t too keen about a series revival, as it has been only 4 years since the show’s ending. TBBT star Kunal Nayyar shared a similar sentiment on this matter, but if a reunion does indeed happen, he’d have no problem reprising his role.
He said:
Can you do a [revival] only four years after your show ends. That’s not a reunion show; that’s just another season… If [the spinoff] were to happen, we’ll see what the universe says
But as of now, the actor clarified he hasn’t heard anything about a potential spin-off, and if a new spin-off does happen, an Old Sheldon show, starring Sheldon in his ’70s seems the way to go.
The Big Bang Theory is available to stream on Max.
