Young Sheldon's Big Bang Theory Connections Now Do More Harm Than Good

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After five seasons, Young Sheldon's The Big Bang Theory connections are now doing more harm than good. The nerd-centric sitcom wrapped up in 2019, and since then, its prequel series has been standing on its own after airing back-to-back with each other in its first two years. While The Big Bang Theory references in Young Sheldon are always great to have, tying the prequel's narrative to its parent series is doing it a massive disservice.

In an effort to capitalize on The Big Bang Theory's popularity, CBS greenlit its first and only spin-off that centers on Sheldon Cooper's childhood in Texas. Given the socially-inept genius' penchant for sharing stories from his past, it didn't take long for Young Sheldon to find its footing as most of the Cooper family members have already been introduced — at least their older counterparts. Being an off-shoot, it understandably has had countless references to The Big Bang Theory including voice cameos from Amy (Mayim Bialik) and Howard (Simon Helberg).

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As Young Sheldon continues, however, it has started to establish itself as its own well-rounded comedy, without the need to depend on The Big Bang Theory. This is evidenced by its transformation to become a family comedy/drama rather than a straight-up sitcom. It has introduced its own compelling narratives that don't have anything to do with its parent series, including Young Sheldon’s Paige (McKenna Grace) arc, and for the most part, they are all well-done.

There's no question thatYoung Sheldon is standing on the shoulders of The Big Bang Theory. Because of the geek-centric sitcom's popularity, it was initially easier to sell the off-shoot, especially since