'Big Bang Theory' Prequel in the Works at CBS

CBS is developing a spinoff of TV’s top comedy series, “The Big Bang Theory,” a prequel that would focus on Sheldon Cooper’s younger years.

The new show would be called "Sheldon" and would center around the idiosyncratic genius as a 12-year-old, USA Today reported. "Big Bang Theory" co-creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady are involved in the new show’s development along with executive producer Steven Molaro.

Jim Parsons will also executive produce the show, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Those close to the project describe it as "Malcom in the Middle" with Sheldon Cooper as a pre-teen to teen. The script for the series has not yet been written, and CBS and Warner Brothers both declined to comment.

Few details about the spinoff were available other than that CBS got it with a “sizeable penalty attached,” and that it will have a single-camera shooting style, unlike “Big Bang Theory’s” usual multicamera format, The Hollywood Reporter said.

There is speculation that Laurie Metcalf, who has played Sheldon’s mom Mary throughout “Big Bang Theory,” may be involved in the spinoff, but nothing has yet been confirmed as far as casting.

“Big Bang Theory” is in its 10th season, and the stars are reportedly negotiating contracts for Season 11. Given the show’s success, it is likely they will be expecting raises over and above the $1 million per episode that Parsons, Johnny Galecki, and Kaley Cuoco are currently receiving.

“We are very confident that everyone involved wants more 'Big Bang' past year 10 and I know Warner Bros. will make those deals,” CBS President Glenn Geller said in August during a press tour, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

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