The Big Bang Theory's New Spinoff Sounds Like Fan Fic - But It's 100% Real

The hierarchy of power in The Big Bang Theory universe has shifted. The Sheldon-verse is getting yet another spin-off, except this one appears to be set in the present day and about an entirely different (but underrated) character from the original series. 

Stuart is the neurotic owner of the comic book store that Leonard, Sheldon, and the gang often frequent — and apparently, all that nerding out has led him to this very moment, as the premise seems to look like it has come straight out of a comic book. Here’s what we know about the improbable new Big Bang Theory spinoff, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, so far.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe: Plot Details and Cast Info (So Far)

In terms of cast members, Kevin Sussman is, obviously, returning as Stuart. Interestingly, however, he will technically be playing more than one character, as the show will feature several variants of Stuarts from alternate universes. The same presumably goes for the rest of the returning characters, too, which include Denise (Lauren Lapkus), Bert (Brian Posehn), and even Barry Kripke (John Ross Bowie). 

Per the show’s official logline, Stuart breaks a device built by Sheldon, Leonard, and Howard, which leads to a "multiverse Armageddon.” According to a comic book page shown in the trailer, the device itself is a “Vari State Quantum Entanglement Device.” This definitely explains a lot about the show’s frankly unhinged trailer, which includes post-apocalyptic scenes, strange creatures, numerous Stuart variants, a totalitarian regime, and a literal tear in the fabric of reality.

Along with his motley crew, it is up to Stuart(s) to save the day — although, based on an eerily apt comic book that shares the show’s title, the jury is out on whether this will actually happen…

How Does the New Big Bang Theory Spinoff Connect to the Original Show?

Like The Big Bang Theory, this spinoff is set in Pasadena. The primary cast also involves various recurring characters from The Big Bang Theory, the most notable being the main gang’s previous nemesis, Barry Kripke.

As well as continuing the story of Stuart and Denise, the show hinges on a device that is literally made by three of the parent show’s main characters. While this presumably happens off-screen, their building of this device is essential to the show’s plot. In light of this, I certainly wouldn’t be surprised if Leonard, Sheldon, and Howard (or, at least, multiversal variants of them) popped up. 

Can Non-Big Bang Theory Show Fans Watch It?

If you’re not a fan of the original show, the new series still looks definitely watchable, given that it clearly has a strong standalone story. That being said, you might miss a few nuances and the inevitable Big Bang Theory Easter eggs, which will surely crop up as the series continues to develop. 

In that sense, being a fan of the original show will certainly enhance your experience. But not being a fan won’t exactly detract from it either. It looks like it will hit a sweet spot right in the middle. 

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe Release Date & How to Watch

The sitcom, which has 10 episodes, is set to premiere on July 23 on HBO Max. New episodes will be released each Thursday up until the series finale on September 24.  Presumably, UK watchers will gain access to these episodes on the recently released HBO Max streaming service.