Coming off the success of The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon had some pretty big shoes to fill, and thankfully, it didn’t disappoint. Instead of focusing on just Sheldon, the show follows the entire Cooper family, which allows showrunners to flesh out the characters more compared to their counterparts in the predecessor. However, not every aspect of the show is cherished by the fandom, especially Sheldon’s mom, who is the biggest contributor to his behavior in the original sitcom.
Played by Zoe Perry, daughter of Laurie Metcalf (the original Mary actress), Perry recalled having a hard time performing as the character, as the role was physically taxing.
Zoe Perry Was Physically Sore from Playing Mary Cooper
Opposed to being stern and uncompromising like her mother Laurie Metcalf in The Big Bang Theory, Zoe Perry’s Mary Cooper in the prequel is much gentler and patient with Sheldon. This results in her enabling Sheldon’s behavior, even when he’s completely in the wrong.
So it comes as no surprise that she is considered the least-liked of the Cooper household among fans, as she’s a major contributor to Jim Parsons‘ Sheldon’s behavior in the original show.
But it’s not only fans who had a rough time watching Mary always prioritize Sheldon over her other kids, as playing the character took a physical toll on Zoe Perry. Considering that the role required her to be very stiff and stand upright, the actress recalled getting physically sore.
Least favorite is probably her rigidity, because it is not only metaphorical but literal! I find that I am constantly tense when I am playing her. So at the end of the day, I’m a little sore!
However, it wasn’t all doom on gloom for the actress, as while maintaining Mary’s rigid stature was physically demanding for Perry, she overall did enjoy her time on the show.
The Tonal Shift in Young Sheldon Was Zoe Parry’s Favorite Part
While The Big Bang Theory has its fair share of heartfelt moments, the creators doubled down on it with Young Sheldon, as the prequel greatly emphasizes its emotional bits. But amidst its heartfelt moments, the show also has a more accessible brand of comedy, which not only was received well among fans, but it’s the aspect of the show that Perry deemed her favorite.
What I love about our show is there’s so much heart to it but they also manage to pull the funny out
While Mary is the least likable Cooper in Young Sheldon, the show did succeed in fleshing out her and the rest of the Coopers, and just like it began, the show ended in a touching and hopeful note.
Young Sheldon is available to stream on Paramount Plus.
