‘The Big Bang Theory’ Spinoff ‘Stuart Fails to Save the Universe’ Greenlit at HBO Max: Everything You Need to Know

Meaghan Darwish July 9, 2025, 3:20 pm

Lauren Lapkus, Kevin Sussman, John Ross Bowie, and Brian Posehn at the table read for 'The Big Bang Theory's spinoff 'Stuart Fails to Save the Universe' — John Ross Bowie / Instagram

The Big Bang Theory spinoff, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, has officially been ordered by HBO Max, meaning more fun for some fan-favorite characters from the TV universe.

Viewers of the original CBS comedy will be pleased that several cast members are set to return for the newest comedy from Chuck Lorre’s franchise, which has also spawned hits like Young Sheldon and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage. Along with the cast and plot, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the upcoming series, which is sure to delight. And stay tuned for additional updates and details in the months ahead.

What is The Big Bang Theory spinoff’s title?

The upcoming spinoff will officially be titled Stuart Fails to Save the Universe as confirmed by HBO Max.

When will Stuart Fails to Save the Universe premeire?

There is no premiere date for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe yet, but stay tuned for any pertinent updates as the HBO Max show takes shape.

Who will star in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe?

Brian Posehn and Mayim Bialik in 'The Big Bang Theory'

Monty Brinton / ©CBS / courtesy Everett Collection

As previously reported, the Big Bang Theory‘s Brian Posehn, Lauren Lapkus, and Kevin Sussman will all star in the new series, which was originally announced back in April 2023. They’ll all play series regulars alongside fellow returning star John Ross Bowie. They’ll all reprise their roles from the original series with Posehn returning as Caltech professor Bert Kibbler, Sussman as The Comic Center of Pasadena owner Stuart Bloom, and Lapkus as his coworker and girlfriend Denise.

Sussman’s Stuart appeared in most episodes of the original series as he arrived in Season 2 of The Big Bang Theory and returned for dozens of episodes throughout the rest of the show’s run. Meanwhile, Posehn’s Kibbler had a 15-episode run, popping up occasionally between Season 6 and the final season. Lapkus’ Denise first appeared in Season 11 and recurred on and off throughout the 12th and final season. Bowie will also reprise his role as plasma physicist Barry Kripke.

What will Stuart Fails to Save the Universe be about?

According to HBO Max’s official logline, the series follows comic book store owner Stuard Bloom, who 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 his quest by his girlfriend Denise, geologist friend Bert, and quantum physicist Barry. Along the way, they’ll 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.

New 'Big Bang' Spinoff From Chuck Lorre in the Works

Has Stuart Fails to Save the Universe spinoff been greenlit?

Yes, HBO Max officially gave the show a series order with HBO and HBO Max Content Chairman and CEO, Casey Bloys sharing in a statement, “We’re excited to be continuing the legacy of The Big Bang Theory. Much like the original series, this new chapter wouldn’t be possible without the vision and storytelling brilliance of Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, as well as Zak Penn, who has brought fresh insight and a distinctive voice to an already exceptional creative team.”

About the order, Lorre said, “I wanted to do something radical that would take me out of my comfort zone. Something the characters on The Big Bang Theory, would have loved, hated, and argued about.”

Production was previously teased by John Ross Bowi,e who posted photos on Instagram from the series’ table read. “And so it begins … #sftsu #tbbt #aftermash,” the actor captioned the set of images, which also feature Kevin Sussman, Lauren Lapkus, and Brian Posehn. See them below: