CBS’ Big Bang Theory prequel Young Sheldon is poised to introduce one of the franchise’s most iconic roles.
Annie Potts has been tapped to play the series-regular role of Meemaw, young Sheldon’s (Iain Armitage of Big Little Lies) foul-mouthed, hard-drinking Texas grandmother. The character has been referenced scores of times on The Big Bang Theory — with June Squibb taking on the role in season nine. The character is described as a woman who is very supportive of her grandson and his unique gifts. She is the mother to star Zoe Perry’s Mary Cooper.
On Big Bang, Meemaw is a driving force in Sheldon’s (Jim Parsons) life. The character was widowed when Sheldon’s grandfather, “Pop-Pop,” passed away in 1985. And until season nine, she had been referenced multiple times before finally making her debut on the Chuck Lorre and Steve Molaro comedy series.
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Young Sheldon revolves around a 9-year-old Sheldon Cooper as he lives with his family in East Texas and attends high school. The concept was originally described as Malcolm in the Middle with a young Sheldon. Perry stars as Mary, Sheldon’s mother, and takes on the role from the flagship series that has been played by the actress’ own mother, Laurie Metcalf. Lance Barber is George, Sheldon’s father; Reagan Revord is Missy, Sheldon’s twin sister; and Montana Jordan plays George Jr., Sheldon’s older brother.
Molaro serves as showrunner on Young Sheldon, which is executive produced by Lorre and Parsons. Emmy winner Parsons also serves as narrator on the single-camera series.
For Potts, Young Sheldon marks her latest TV role following Designing Women, GCB, Any Day Now and Love & War. She is repped by Innovative Artists, Untitled Entertainment and attorney David Fox.
Young Sheldon s set to premiere Monday, Sept. 25, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT before moving to its regular time period on Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. on Nov. 2. Watch the trailer, below.
