It’s safe to assume that The Big Bang Theory was life-changing for all of its main cast. At one point, they became the highest-paid actors on TV because of how successful the show was. 6 years after it ended, The Big Bang Theory remains a juggernaut on streaming. Beyond the financial stability that it brought, Cuoco revealed why it’s so special for her.
In an interview in 2024, Cuoco openly talked about her time in The Big Bang Theory, calling it “was some of the best years of my life.” It was her response when asked if she’s open to reprising her role as Penny in Lorre and Prady’s new spinoff starring Kevin Sussman, officially titled Stuart Fails to Save the Universe.
I spent 12 years playing that role, and it really set off my career. I owe a lot to that character, to that show, to [creator] Chuck Lorre. It was some of the best years of my life, and some of the most fun I’ve ever had. I would absolutely reprise that role. 100%. I love that character, and I always will.
Not seeing The Big Bang Theory as just a job that she did for a period of time, and instead, a time in her life that she genuinely cherished properly explains why Cuoco was particularly peeved about the show ending. While Parsons had time to process and say in the matter, she felt like she was forced into just accepting what was already decided.
Ultimately, Cuoco moved on from The Big Bang Theory. Among the main cast of the nerd-centric sitcom, she has been the busiest — not only starring in several shows but also producing them. She also collected a few nominations for her post-The Big Bang Theory work, particularly via HBO’s The Flight Attendant.
Can Kaley Cuoco Return As Penny In The Big Bang Theory Universe?
The fact that Cuoco doesn’t have any hesitation in reprising her role as Penny in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe more than half a decade since The Big Bang Theory ended reinforces this. At this point, it’s unclear if and when she will be in it, but considering its premise, it is very likely.
While she made a voice cameo in Young Sheldon season 3, it was uncredited, and it wasn’t for her role as Penny, unlike Helberg and Mayim Bialik, who returned as Howard and Amy. Unfortunately, she doesn’t have any strong ties to Sheldon’s brother to warrant a Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage appearance.
The Young Sheldon finale could have been the perfect opportunity to see Cuoco’s Penny again, but the CBS capper only name-dropped the character. As disappointing as that is, it’s still better than nothing, which is what Galecki’s Leonard got in The Big Bang Theory prequel.
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