Stuart Fails to Save the Universewill be the fourth TV series inThe Big Bang Theoryfranchise, and a new update reveals it could be the best. The new show will star Kevin Sussman, reprising his role as Stuart Bloom, a comic book store owner who must restore reality after breaking a device created bySheldon Cooperand Leonard Hofstadter. As a result, alternate versions of familiarTBBTcharacters may appear.
According toTVLine, it’s unconfirmed which, if any, of the big-name stars ofTBBTwill make special or extensive appearances in the new series, like Jim Parsons' Sheldon or Johnny Galecki’s Leonard. But there will be familiar faces returning. These include Lauren Lapkus as Stuart’s girlfriend, Denise, Brian Posehn as geologist Bert, and John Ross Bowie as quantum physicist Barry Kripke.

This newTBBTspin-off has the potential to become the best in the franchise, thanks to its combination of science fiction and comedy elements, while potentially putting a twisted spin onthe beloved characters from the originalBig Bang Theory.
Stuart Fails To Save The Universe Will Explore Alternate Timelines
This Spin-off May Involve Multiverses That Show The Good And Evil Side Of Its Characters
One of the most intriguing aspects of the newBig Bang Theoryspin-off is its exploration of alternate timelines. According to series creator Chuck Lorre, his goal is to form a new show in theTBBTfranchise that would make the original characters excited – and possibly angry. The exciting part is that the upcoming series is the first direct sequel afterTheBig Bang Theory.
By taking place afterTBBT,the new series can explore an alternate reality explaining what happened to Stuart, Denise, Bert, and Barry, as well as further expand their characterizations since they had supporting roles in the original show. Given that Stuart is a comic book expert, one or more timelines may involve him and his friends as superheroes and villains in fantastical settings.
The divisive, or even more exciting part, isthe potential to view familiarBig Bang Theorycharacters in a different light, which may include Sheldon,Leonard and Penny. This means these characters may return with the original stars portraying them, or be recast for the new series, so new actors can provide a fresh take on these roles.
Barry Kripke
John Ross Bowie
While it’s uncertain whether any originalTBBTcharacters are returning aside from Stuart and his friends,the new series is set to expand Stuart’s storyand place him on new adventures. This helps set Stuart and the show apart from familiar characters whose stories have already been told. Sheldon, in particular, was a protagonist onTBBTand inthe prequel showYoung Sheldon.
Stuart’s Flexible Concept Allows It To Be The Most Inventive & Daring Of The TBBT Shows
Stuart’s Spin-off Series Will Contain More Sci-fi Compared To Its Predecessors
Stuart Fails to Save the Universehas the opportunity to bethe boldest series in theBig Bang Theoryfranchise, as it appears to be departing from the nerdy aspects of the original show and will incorporate more sci-fi elements. Lorre himself also mentioned during the Banff World Media Festival 2025 that the new series includes plenty of visual effects work.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universeis the fourth series in theTBBTfranchise and will air on HBO Max.
The VFX work inStuart Fails to Save the Universeis a new experience for Lorre since he’s used to forming more practical sitcoms. However, this signifies that Lorre, fellow creator Bill Prady, and writer Zak Penn all intend to take theTBBTfranchise in a new direction that blends sci-fi, comedy, fantasy, and comic book lore, while honoring the humor of the original series.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe
Cast
Stuart Bloom, the endearing yet perpetually unlucky comic book store owner from The Big Bang Theory, takes center stage in this upcoming spinoff. The series follows Stuart as he navigates new challenges, relationships, and misadventures, all while attempting (and humorously failing) to “save the universe.”