Wil Wheaton returns in the Stuart Fails to Save the Universe trailer, firing an energy blast as Stuart fixes a multiverse crisis. Premieres July 23 on HBO Max.
- May 25, 2026
AceShowbiz - Stuart Fails to Save the Universe teases an exciting return as Wil Wheaton, a familiar face from The Big Bang Theory, makes a surprise appearance in the new HBO Max series trailer. Wheaton, known for playing a heightened version of himself during 10 of the original sitcom's 12 seasons, briefly appears firing an energy blast at Stuart and his friends inside the comic book store.
The upcoming spin-off centers on comic book store owner Stuart Bloom (played by Kevin Sussman), who must fix reality after accidentally breaking a device created by Sheldon and Leonard, unleashing a multiverse crisis. Alongside Stuart are his girlfriend Denise (portrayed by Lauren Lapkus), geologist friend Bert (Posehn), and the cantankerous quantum physicist Barry Kripke (played by John Ross Bowie).
The 10-episode first season will premiere on July 23, with episodes releasing weekly on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET. Fans can expect encounters with alternate versions of beloved characters from the original series, including the return of Wheaton’s character and appearances by other alumni such as Joshua Malina, who reprises his role as Caltech President Siebert in earlier trailers.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is produced by Chuck Lorre Productions in conjunction with Warner Bros. Television. It is created, written, and executive produced by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady, the co-creators of The Big Bang Theory, alongside feature writer Zak Penn, known for his work on films like "The Avengers," "Ready Player One," and "Free Guy."
This series marks the fourth installment in the The Big Bang Theory franchise, following the original series (2007-2019), the prequel Young Sheldon (2017-2024), and the sequel-to-the-prequel Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage (2024-present). The new show promises to blend the franchise’s signature humor with a fresh, multiverse-spanning storyline that expands on the familiar universe fans love.
This article is based on reporting originally published by TVLine.