Outranking or Underwhelming: A Look at the Character Transitions from The Big Bang Theory to Young Sheldon

Article Overview

Despite the discrepancies in the plot, CBS remains adamant about the coexistence of The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon within the same universe. However, this poses challenges for the storytelling and conclusion of Young Sheldon.

In Young Sheldon, the characters such as Sheldon, Mary, George, Missy, and Meemaw are portrayed in a superior manner compared to their adult counterparts in The Big Bang Theory. Conversely, the depiction of Tam and the Pasadena gang (Amy, Howard, and Sheldon's friends) in Young Sheldon is considered inferior to their portrayals in The Big Bang Theory. Tam is depicted as more cruel, and the appearances of the Pasadena gang are too fleeting to leave a lasting impression.

Despite the varying portrayals of the characters, The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon coexist within the same universe. It is widely known that there are numerous plot inconsistencies between the two shows, making it more logical to establish them in separate realities. Nevertheless, CBS remains steadfast in connecting them. This poses challenges for Young Sheldon's storytelling as it must not only navigate complicated plots but also conclude earlier than desired, in order to align with the established canon.

Furthermore, asserting that Young Sheldon exists in the same universe as The Big Bang Theory has negative implications for the nerd-centered sitcom. The two shows feature overlapping characters, each depicted differently. Certain characters excel in Young Sheldon, while others shine in the original series.

8. Better In Young Sheldon: Sheldon

7. Better In Young Sheldon: Mary

Inspired by Jim Parsons' Sheldon's immense popularity, CBS smartly expanded The Big Bang Theory universe to include a spin-off show solely dedicated to this beloved character. Young Sheldon serves as a captivating prequel, shedding light on the formative years of this socially awkward genius, putting a significant emphasis on his development (especially in the initial seasons). Consequently, it becomes evident that Young Sheldon's portrayal of this character surpasses his adult counterpart. In contrast to Parsons' interpretation, Iain Armitage's portrayal exudes a more serene and compassionate demeanor. He displays a greater proficiency in handling his emotions and genuinely cares for others without any external persuasion.

In addition to Sheldon, Mary Cooper holds the record for the most appearances on The Big Bang Theory. She frequently visited Pasadena to keep an eye on her son, resulting in the Pasadena group spending a considerable amount of time with her. When comparing all of her appearances on The Big Bang Theory, there is no doubt that she shines even more in Young Sheldon. While Mary from The Big Bang Theory is characterized as rude and judgmental, using her faith to justify her inappropriate behavior, the prequel's version of her remains devoted to her religion but is not as harsh or offensive.

6. Better In Young Sheldon: George

Young Sheldon originated from Sheldon's desire to narrate stories of his childhood. Apart from recounting his extraordinary experiences growing up as a prodigious boy in Texas, his father was frequently the focus of his tales. Regrettably, the majority of these narratives presented George in a negative light. As George never appeared physically in The Big Bang Theory, he was unable to defend himself against Sheldon's accusations of being an inadequate father. This inconsistency remains one of the most significant disparities between Young Sheldon and its parent series. Despite his imperfections, it is undeniable that George is a devoted family man.

5. Better In Young Sheldon: Missy

While Mary had limited screen time on The Big Bang Theory, Missy instantly connected with viewers. However, it was Young Sheldon that truly developed her character, delving deep into her backstory. As the prequel explores her story, Missy has become a fan-favorite character on the show. Time and time again, she has proven to be the best Cooper, possessing charm, wit, unwavering loyalty, and emotional maturity beyond her years. Though she has faced her fair share of challenges, it is not uncommon for a teenager who feels unseen by the people she cares about.

4. Better In Young Sheldon: Georgie

Due to a falling out,

3. Better In Young Sheldon: Meemaw

Georgie did not make an appearance in The Big Bang Theory until season 11, right before Sheldon's wedding to Amy. At that point, he had already achieved success as a business owner, similar to his portrayal in Young Sheldon. However, adult Georgie displayed a noticeably different demeanor compared to his Young Sheldon counterpart. He exhibited arrogance and even a hint of being a playboy, which was disappointing considering how wonderful he was throughout Mandy's unexpected pregnancy.

3. Better In Young Sheldon: Meemaw

While much has been said about the conflicting portrayal of Georgie, Meemaw's portrayal has often been overlooked. Sheldon's deep affection for his grandmother was evident in The Big Bang Theory, but this depiction differed from June Squibb's portrayal, which showcased a snooty and mean-spirited character. Conversely, Young Sheldon's depiction of Meemaw is filled with love and tenderness, while still maintaining a strong-willed persona.

2. Worse In Young Sheldon: Tam

During the final year of The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon was in its second season. To strengthen its connection to the prequel, CBS devised a plan as they knew that the time for the nerd-centric sitcom was coming to an end. Even before the one-time crossover episode where Young Sheldon watches a videotape of his dad's pep talk to football players, The Big Bang Theory season 12 introduced Tam - Sheldon's childhood best friend. Tam was never mentioned before due to their falling out. In Young Sheldon, the character of Tam can be portrayed as naive and sometimes cruel, whereas in the main series, he is depicted as more tame and mature.

1. Worse In Young Sheldon: The Pasadena Gang

Only Amy and Howard have made voice cameos on Young Sheldon. Sheldon has enlisted his wife's help twice now for the show's voice-over. During Amy's first appearance, she and Sheldon revealed that they have a son named Leonard Cooper. In her second appearance, they openly discussed their marriage partnership. As for Howard, he was brought in to explain the real reason behind Sheldon's dislike for engineers and engineering. Each time Amy and Howard appeared on Young Sheldon, it was a special occasion, especially since it happened after The Big Bang Theory ended. However, their appearances were too brief to truly make an impact.

In the Young Sheldon season 2 finale, the Pasadena gang, consisting of Sheldon's friends from The Big Bang Theory, made special appearances. This episode was dedicated to The Big Bang Theory's ending. They were only shown briefly towards the end of the episode, when Sheldon, feeling socially inept, was crying after his unsuccessful Nobel Prize listening party. While Sheldon sat alone in the Coopers' garage awaiting the announcement of the winners, CBS revealed what his friends were doing. Young actors were cast for this scene since none of the original Big Bang Theory cast returned. Although heartwarming, the portrayal of the Pasadena gang's personality was limited.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about the character transitions from The Big Bang Theory to Young Sheldon. On the one hand, I appreciate the opportunity to see the characters in a different light and learn more about their backstories. On the other hand, I feel like some of the characters have been changed too much, and it's hard to reconcile their different personalities.

One of the biggest changes I've noticed is in the character of Sheldon. In The Big Bang Theory, Sheldon is a highly intelligent but socially awkward physicist. He's often seen as a bit of a know-it-all, and he can be quite condescending to others. However, in Young Sheldon, Sheldon is a much more sympathetic character. He's still intelligent, but he's also more compassionate and caring. He's also more vulnerable, and we get to see him struggle with some of the same challenges that other kids his age face.

Another character who has changed significantly is Mary Cooper, Sheldon's mother. In The Big Bang Theory, Mary is a religious conservative who is often seen as being overbearing and judgmental. However, in Young Sheldon, Mary is a much more loving and supportive mother. She's still religious, but she's not as strict or judgmental. She's also more understanding of Sheldon's quirks, and she's always there for him when he needs her.

Overall, I think the character transitions from The Big Bang Theory to Young Sheldon have been mostly successful. The writers have done a good job of staying true to the characters' essential personalities while also making them more relatable and sympathetic. However, I do think that some of the changes have been a bit too drastic, and it's hard to reconcile the different versions of the characters.