Summary
The Young Sheldon Season 6 finale gives Missy her own storyline and redemption arc after years of being a supporting character.
In Young Sheldon Season 7, Missy's rebellion persists despite initial expectations of her redemption. This has the potential to influence the show's darker storylines.
If Young Sheldon extends beyond Sheldon's time in Texas, the emphasis could pivot towards the rest of the Cooper family, including Missy, in order to maintain the show's long-lasting appeal.
In a surprising turn of events, CBS has retracted the major twist involving Missy in the season 6 finale of Young Sheldon. This extra-long finale explores multiple storylines, with each member of the Cooper family taking the spotlight. After months of uncertainty in their relationship, Mandy and Georgie make the decision to tie the knot. Meanwhile, Sheldon manages to secure funding for his summer program in Germany with the assistance of Dr. Linkletter and Pastor Jeff. On the other hand, Meemaw faces the threat of her illegal gambling den being exposed, followed by the devastating revelation that her house has been destroyed by a tornado.
However, what's unexpected is Missy's significant role in the season 6 finale of Young Sheldon. Despite her undeniable charm and potential, CBS has typically portrayed her as a secondary character within the family dynamic. Finally, after years of criticism, it appears that the network has recognized these concerns and grants Missy her own storyline. Feeling continuously overlooked and marginalized by her parents, Sheldon's sister decides to rebel. She even goes so far as to attempt running away from home, taking her dad's stolen truck with Paige in an effort to reach Florida. Yet, in a surprising twist, the season 6 finale of Young Sheldon appears to mark the beginning of Missy's journey towards redemption.
Young Sheldon Season 6 Finale Starts Missy’s Redemption
Missy's rebellious streak in Young Sheldon season 6 persists, despite the consequences of a previous misbehavior. This time, Pastor Jeff's niece, Tonya, contributes to Missy's continued defiance. Both girls manage to sneak out unnoticed for a few nights until Sheldon catches them and informs on them in the season finale. Aware of the potential trouble she could face with her parents, Missy pleads with Sheldon to keep their secret. However, Sheldon's concern for her wellbeing outweighs his desire to protect her. This disagreement leads to a major conflict between the twins, which remains unresolved.
The culmination of Young Sheldon season 6 brings a devastating tornado tragedy that profoundly impacts the sole Cooper daughter. Missy experiences a life-threatening situation during the significant Medford weather disturbance. While driving home after dropping off Sheldon and Mary at the airport, Missy and George are forced to abandon their car and take shelter on the roadside as the tornado approaches. Fueled by adrenaline, Missy breaks down and tearfully apologizes to her father for her rebellious behavior. She confesses her confusion about her actions and vows to make amends going forward.
Missy Will Continue Her Rebel Phase In Young Sheldon Season 7 Per CBS
Missy's redemption arc would make a compelling storyline for Season 7 of Young Sheldon. If the upcoming season of the Big Bang Theory prequel is indeed its last, it would be fitting to conclude Missy's character development by showing her in a more positive place. Unfortunately, this may not happen. In a recent CBS marketing video for Young Sheldon, it is stated that Missy is still in her rebellious phase. This means that the network is retracting its initial plan to guide Mary and George's daughter back on the right path.
Unlike previous seasons, Season 6 of Young Sheldon does not end with a cliffhanger. It is possible that the show will include a significant time jump, allowing for Sheldon to return home after his summer program in Germany. Rather than continuing the story with Sheldon separated from his family, the time jump would allow for Missy's rebellion to take place off-screen during that period. However, this would be a narrative cop-out, as it would not explore the consequences of Missy reneging on her promise to George.
How Missy’s Rebellion Impacts Young Sheldon Season 7’s Story
In accordance with The Big Bang Theory's established storyline, the Coopers are faced with several unfortunate events in the near future. While Young Sheldon season 6 completely overlooks George's affair scandal, it is expected that the prequel will eventually address it in the upcoming year. This storyline of infidelity alone is distressing, but it is soon followed by George's untimely death, which greatly disrupts the family. In line with the ongoing story of the geek-centered sitcom, Young Sheldon season 7 will depict Sheldon completing his college education at East Texas Tech and relocating to Pasadena to pursue his post-graduate studies at Caltech.
To put it simply, Young Sheldon season 7 will be an eventful year for the Cooper family. Handling darker plotlines such as George's infidelity and subsequent demise is challenging enough. Incorporating Missy's ongoing mischievous behavior may prove to be overwhelming for a show that aims to be light-hearted comedy. If Young Sheldon season 7 ends up being its final season, it is doubtful that enough time will be dedicated to Missy's character, especially considering the unresolved narrative elements that still need to be addressed before the series concludes. Consequently, it appears that Young Sheldon may disappoint Missy once again, and this time, it may be the last.
What Missy’s Rebellion Means For Young Sheldon & Beyond
If CBS wants to continue the show Young Sheldon beyond Sheldon's time in Texas, it wouldn't matter if season 7 properly delves into Missy's rebellious period. Given the show's popularity, the network will most likely want it to remain on the air for as long as possible. However, The Big Bang Theory's timeline creates a challenge in doing so, as Sheldon's time in his hometown is nearing its end. Nevertheless, CBS can address this by rebranding the show as a true ensemble and shifting the focus onto the rest of the Cooper family, ensuring its longevity.
In any case, Young Sheldon's decision to diversify its storytelling has proven beneficial. By making Missy a central protagonist in the revamped series, CBS can further develop her character. Her rebellious phase in season 6 can serve as the starting point for her personal growth in the next chapter. Depending on how the proposed ensemble series unfolds, it can explore the typical challenges she faces while growing up that have been neglected since Sheldon moved to East Texas Tech for college.