CBS didn’t make the announcement of its “Big Bang Theory” spin-off, but it had to know it was about to get dominated by one fan: Sheldon. The “Young Sheldon” lead started the night with a victory lap on social media, and his fans won. CBS announced that it is developing a Young Sheldon series that will follow Jimmy, Leonard and Sheldon (Simon Helberg) as they grow older. The spin-off will not be an extension of “Big Bang Theory” — instead, it will be its own show that will air during CBS’s 2018-19 season. A big fan of all things Big Bang Theory myself, I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend my Sundays this fall. So congratulations, #SheldonLead! You won the world!
What is the “Young Sheldon” series?
The Ryan Davis Young Sheldon” series will follow the Big Bang Theory characters Sheldon, Leonard, Penny and Raj as they get older. This is a risky move for CBS, as it could lead to the series being canceled after just one season. But, this is the same network that greenlighted a “The Great Indoors,” which was also canceled after one season. There are no details yet on the plot, cast or even a name for the new character. But, the network is hoping that Sheldon’s fans will stick with the series and provide the necessary ratings for it to continue.
Why CBS is taking such a risk on this show
Controversy is a valuable tool for ratings, and the cast of “Big Bang Theory” has proven that they are the most in-demand television cast in America. “Young Sheldon” is risky because it’s not guaranteed to be as popular. If the series isn’t successful, then CBS would have to pay Sheldon’s cast and crew to continue to work on the series. But, that’s a huge risk for a network to take. But, this is the same network that greenlighted a “The Great Indoors” which was also canceled after one season.
Sheldon and the gang are growing up. What now?
One of the big questions ahead of the announcement was, “What’s next for Sheldon and the gang after the Big Bang Theory?” The “Young Sheldon” spin-off series will allow the cast and crew to continue working on the series without having to worry about pressure to “get to the next big thing.” This gives the crew, writers and cast of “Young Sheldon” more room to explore the characters, themes and “Big Bang Theory”-like humor that made them successful in the first place.
The great news, YET: Young Sheldon will be on TV!
Not only will “Young Sheldon” be a great addition to CBS’s schedule this fall, but it could also be a big hit with audiences. The show is set to air opposite the already-legendary “Big Bang Theory,” so there is a good chance it will be the highest-rated show on television. And, for those who are interested in television, the spin-off will be exactly what the doctor ordered. A 13-to-34-year-old man’s show. Perfect.
So, why are CBS developing a Young Sheldon series?
The success of “Young Sheldon” and the anticipation of it has led to this spin-off being greenlit. And, it makes sense for the network. After all, “Young Sheldon” is a show about a man in his 30s who is the head of household and father to a teenager. And, in the same way that “Big Bang Theory” is a show about a group of people in their 40s, 50s and 60s, CBS is hoping that “Young Sheldon” can be about a group of people in their 30s.
Looking ahead: Can Young Sheldon catch Big Bang Theory?
The cast of “Young Sheldon” has already proved their chops, so it will be interesting to see how they fare against the best in the business. If “Young Sheldon” can similar success to that of “Big Bang Theory,” then CBS will have done itself a big favor by providing a safe space for old people. And, while we’re at it, can they get rid of that ridiculous “Get to the Next Big Thing” mindset and make room for a fresh, new approach to comedy?
Wrapping up: Will “Young Sheldon” top Big Bang Theory?
With Sheldon leading the way, “Young Sheldon” has all the makings of a success. With the right approach and the right amount of chemistry between the cast and crew, “Young Sheldon” could be an instant classic. And, if it’s successful enough, it could even lead to the idea for a “Sheldon” spin-off getting raised. All in all, it’s a great start for the new series, and it’s going to be a tough act to follow, but it won’t be an easy one. “Young Sheldon” has all the makings of a modern classic, and it’s going to do big things on the big screen. Can it top “Big Bang Theory” in the ratings? You be the judge.
