The Big Bang Theory is on its way to HBO Max, and it needs to be inspired by its predecessor. Timeline-wise, the series follows Young Sheldon and Georgie and Mandy’s First Marriage, but unlike the two, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is not a prequel. This means there are opportunities for the cast of The Big Bang Theory to appear in scenes and storylines.
The series focuses on Stuart’s comic book shop and an alternate universe after he breaks a device that Leonard Hofstadter and Sheldon Cooper made. While the premise is on-par with the same interests as TBBT, the series of doomed to fail if it doesn’t take notes from its predecessor.
Stuart Fails To Save The Universe Needs To Focus On Friendship, Not Relationships
What made The Big Bang Theory so successful was the friendships. The complexities of friendships and individual growth were all relatable and entertaining. The ensemble cast had a great connection off-screen, which transitioned nicely on camera. If Stuart Fails to Save the Universe wants to have similar success, it needs to revolve around Stuart and his quirky group of friends.
In August 2025, it was confirmed that former reccurring TBBT characters Lauren Lapkus, John Ross Bowie, and Brian Posehn were all joining Stuart in the new series. This gives the spinoff a chance to harness in on the bookish storylines and comic-obsessed characters.
Considering Lapkus is in the spinoff as Stuart’s love interest, it’s best if the couple’s mutual love for science fiction is at the forefront. TBBT had many love interests among the group, so many argued the show went downhill when storylines focused less on the friendships and more on clichéd romances.
Great Friendships Could Win Over Fans Who Believe ‘Stuart Fails To Save The Universe’ Is Unnecessary
The Big Bang Theory was the first of its kind. It was a sitcom that focused on the sciences, comic book fandom, friendship, and social awkwardness. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe has the chance to follow suit.
However, the spinoff is facing an uphill battle with a plethora of fans who think the series is unnecessary. Some think the spinoff is ruining a good thing. Others think we’ve seen enough of The Big Bang Theory universe. Between Young Sheldon and Georgie & Mandy, how much more information do audiences need on familiar characters?
What separates this series from the others — outside the timeline — is the science fiction multiverse. The show’s official description, per Warner Bros. Discovery, describes the unique elements to the show that are unlike other sitcoms.
“Comic book store owner Stuart Bloom is tasked with restoring reality after he breaks a device built by Sheldon and Leonard, accidentally bringing about a multiverse Armageddon. Stuart is aided in this quest by his girlfriend Denise, geologist friend Bert, and quantum physicist/all-around pain in the ass Barry Kripke. Along the way, they meet alternate-universe versions of characters we’ve come to know and love from The Big Bang Theory. As the title implies, things don’t go well.”
If Stuart Fails to Save the Universe brings unique storylines, a twinge of nostalgia, and geekiness, then HBO Max has a hit on its hands.
