The Cooper Clan: A Journey from The Big Bang Theory to Young Sheldon

The Big Bang Theory: Introducing the Cooper Family

The Cooper clan expanded in the last few years. The Big Bang Theory introduced several members of Sheldon's family, putting an increased focus on them and expanding it with new characters. Despite being an ensemble series, Sheldon was arguably the true lead of The Big Bang Theory. He was mostly the center of its storytelling, especially in its later years, and in the rare times that he wasn't, he was still relevant by being a comedic source. One of his most interesting traits was his penchant for sharing anecdotes from his time growing up as a boy genius in Texas.

Lance Barber's George looking concerned on Young Sheldon.

While Sheldon had built his own family in Pasadena with his friends, multiple members of the Cooper family were actually featured in the nerd-centric sitcom before most of them eventually became the protagonists of Young Sheldon. The prequel has done a great job really exploring the dynamics within the clan while also revealing new information about Sheldon's future post-The Big Bang Theory. Over the years, Young Sheldon has evolved into a true family comedy/drama, with CBS giving each Cooper their respective arcs, making all of them fully fleshed-out characters.

Mary Cooper in Young Sheldon looking upset in the kitchen

The Cooper Family Members

Sheldon's father, George Cooper, didn't get to appear in The Big Bang Theory. By the time the events of the show started, he was already dead. Still, CBS was able to get him incorporated into the nerd-centric sitcom thanks to Sheldon's regular stories about him. Interestingly, however, Sheldon's anecdotes about his dad are routinely contradicted by the prequel. Unlike his claims that he was a negligent father in The Big Bang Theory, George is more of a flawed but dedicated family man in Young Sheldon.

Zoe Perry's Mary looking outraged while sitting in Young Sheldon season 6 episode 2

Sheldon's mother, Mary, was the first member of the Cooper clan to be introduced in The Big Bang Theory. Best known for her devotion to her faith, Mary also clearly had a soft spot for the boy genius, so much so that she didn't have any issues badmouthing her other kids in the process. Young Sheldon's version of Mary is mellower than her The Big Bang Theory counterpart, with a more nuanced portrayal.

Mary Cooper in Young Sheldon

George and Mary's firstborn, Georgie, appeared late in The Big Bang Theory, only physically joining the show at the end of season 11. After an emotional confrontation with Sheldon, the pair eventually patched things up, with Georgie ending up attending Sheldon and Amy's wedding. Young Sheldon is already laying the groundwork for Georgie's talent for entrepreneurship and offers a sneak peek at what his childhood looks like.

Georgie from Young Sheldon, smiling.

Expanding the Cooper Family

Sheldon, the socially inept genius, was the primary character of The Big Bang Theory, and he was awarded his origin story show in Young Sheldon. Known for his quirks and eccentricities, Young Sheldon tackles the character's childhood in Texas, feeling out of place most of the time. Over time, The Big Bang Theory was able to develop the character, from being cartoonish to being a fully fleshed-out player. Young Sheldon follows suit by offering a sneak peek at what his childhood looks like.

Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper in The Big Bang Theory

Missy, Sheldon's twin sister, had limited appearances in The Big Bang Theory but became a fan-favorite. Young Sheldon further explores the character, making Missy more socially engaged and emotionally attuned than her brother, highlighting just how different they are. The prequel tends to overlook Mary and George's only daughter, but she remains to be its best character.

Raegan Revord as Missy in Young Sheldon season 6

Sheldon's love interest and eventual wife, Amy, was a late addition to The Big Bang Theory. Like the rest of The Big Bang Theory's main cast, Young Sheldon also featured a young Amy. The prequel also provides updates about the Pasadena gang's life after the events of The Big Bang Theory, including how Sheldon and Amy's marriage has progressed, revealing that they share a son in the future named Leonard Cooper.

Mandy smiling curiously at Georgie in Young Sheldon