As exciting as it may be that a new The Big Bang Theory spin-off is in the works, the upcoming show could ultimately be a disappointment for long-time fans of the original series. Four years since the CBS sitcom wrapped up its 12-season run, Chuck Lorre and Warner Bros. Television have explored the idea of expanding the franchise through a fresh spin-off. The Big Bang Theory currently has only one offshoot — the prequel series, Young Sheldon, which functions as Sheldon Cooper’s origins story. However, thanks to its success, another story set in The Big Bang Theory franchise is now in the works.
Young Sheldon has established itself separately from its parent series, becoming TV’s number one comedy, with season 6 posting show-high ratings. While CBS would want to keep it on the air for as long as possible, its narrative ties to The Big Bang Theory determine its natural end, which is slowly nearing. Between that and Sheldon becoming unbearably annoying in the prequel, talks about wrapping up the prequel after season 7 have started. Simultaneously, however, a new The Big Bang Theory is being developed, but instead of following another member of the Pasadena gang, its story may not even have any significant bearing on the sitcom.
The Next the Big Bang Theory Spinoff Could Be About Paige
According to the reports, Warner Bros. Television and studio-based Chuck Lorre Prods.’ next collaboration is still very early in its development. This means that there are barely any story details about the project at this point. However, unless something has changed since the final days of The Big Bang Theory, no one from the main cast is willing to return like Parsons’ did for Young Sheldon. Given this, the next show in The Big Bang Theory universe could be about something entirely different from the CBS prequel. For example, instead of an origin story, it could be an offshoot series about Paige.
Introduced in Young Sheldon season 2 as another child prodigy in Dr. John Sturgis’ class, Paige has appeared sporadically on the series in the last several years. Unfortunately, things worsened for her when her parents split up. She started rebelling and ended up dropping out of college. Admittedly, it is heartbreaking to see Paige’s downfall, especially knowing how much potential she has. That being said, it also makes for such a compelling premise for a new series.
Young Sheldon Makes A TBBT Paige Spinoff Sensible
Paige is not a Young Sheldon mainstay; instead, she is more of a regular guest star. She would come back for an episode or two per season just to move forward with her relationship with Sheldon and the Coopers and her own story. This way, CBS has been able to consistently develop Paige’s arc, which can be the premise of a new spin-off. Interestingly, however, the fact that Young Sheldon season 6 has brought her back multiple times could be an indication that CBS is subtly laying the groundwork for Paige’s own show.
Paige has no direct ties to Young Sheldon’s parent series, but that isn’t necessarily bad. If anything, it allows her potential The Big Bang Theory universe-set series to have total creative freedom to craft her story. It isn’t going to be restricted by the established canon other than what has been revealed about her in the ongoing family comedy. Unlike Young Sheldon, it also doesn’t have a pre-determined end despite being a prequel.
Why A Paige Spinoff Is Disappointing For Big Bang Theory Fans
When the news of The Big Bang Theory spin-off was announced, there was an immediate assumption that it would have a linear connection to the show. That means a Pasadena gang member spearheads it, such as Rajesh Koothrappali or another origin story like Young Howard will happen. Both options are plausible, but once again, no main cast member was open to being involved in another series after starring in the sitcom for 12 years. Given that, it would be difficult to do this unless some of the actors changed their minds.
Admittedly, a Paige spin-off doesn’t really fit any of those criteria. If anything, her show would be more of a Young Sheldon spin-off than a The Big Bang Theory one. As compelling as her story is, it would be a bit difficult to sell the idea that it is tied to the California-set sitcom because Paige neither appeared nor was mentioned in it. In addition, those who aren’t following Young Sheldon may not even know who she is, so there won’t be any emotional attachment to the character.
