Wil Wheaton Returns for Big Bang Theory Spin-Off Stuart Fails to Save the Universe

A new teaser for HBO Max’s upcoming “Big Bang Theory” spin-off “Stuart Fails to Save the Universe” includes a brief appearance by Wil Wheaton, raising questions about whether he is reprising the heightened version of himself he played on the original CBS sitcom. In the blink-and-you-miss-it moment from the sizzle reel, Wheaton appears in Stuart’s comic book store and seems to unleash an energy blast toward Stuart Bloom and his allies.

The series is set to premiere on July 23, with its 10-episode first season releasing weekly on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET. The single-camera comedy centers on comic book store owner Stuart Bloom, played by Kevin Sussman, who is forced to help restore reality after accidentally damaging a device created by Sheldon and Leonard. That mistake triggers a multiverse catastrophe, pulling Stuart into a chaotic mission to put the universe back together.

Stuart is joined in the effort by his girlfriend Denise, played by Lauren Lapkus; his geologist friend Bert, played by Brian Posehn; and quantum physicist Barry Kripke, played by John Ross Bowie. The official premise says the group will encounter alternate-universe versions of familiar “Big Bang Theory” characters along the way, suggesting the new series will continue the franchise’s mix of science fiction, comic-book references and character-driven comedy.

Wheaton’s appearance is notable because he was a recurring presence throughout the original series, where he played an exaggerated version of himself and was often framed as one of Sheldon Cooper’s enemies. His return, even in teaser form, adds to the show’s connection to the long-running sitcom universe. Another familiar face, Joshua Malina, previously appeared in an earlier trailer as Caltech President Siebert.

“Stuart Fails to Save the Universe” is produced by Chuck Lorre Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television. It was created, written and executive produced by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, who co-created “The Big Bang Theory,” along with feature writer Zak Penn.

The show becomes the fourth title in the broader franchise, following “The Big Bang Theory,” which ran from 2007 to 2019; “Young Sheldon,” which aired from 2017 to 2024; and “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage,” which premiered in 2024 and is still ongoing. The new series expands the universe again, this time by placing Stuart at the center of a multiverse disaster that brings familiar and alternate characters into the story.