Many fans were sad when The Big Bang Theory ended after twelve seasons because they didn’t want to say goodbye to the characters they loved from the show.
Jim Parsons could have moved on from his role as Sheldon Cooper like his co-stars who became wealthy and famous.
Highlights
- Despite not being biologically related, Jim Parsons and Iain Armitage have formed a close bond through their work on the shows.
- Parsons initially acted protectively toward Armitage but later developed a genuine fondness for him, demonstrating a supportive mentorship dynamic between the two actors.
- The series’ ability to capture the essence of Sheldon Cooper’s character in his formative years has resonated with audiences.
However, he decided to join the spin-off show Young Sheldon after being persuaded.
In 2017, Lorre and The Big Bang Theory writer Steven Molaro introduced Young Sheldon, a prequel series centered around Sheldon Cooper’s childhood, portrayed by Iain Armitage.
Set in Texas, it depicts Sheldon’s upbringing in a family that struggles to comprehend his brilliance.
With five seasons already aired and seasons 6 and 7 confirmed, Young Sheldon has garnered a sizable fan base comparable to The Big Bang Theory.
Recently, it marked a significant milestone with its 100th episode.
When Parsons met Iain Armitage, who plays young Sheldon, he developed a strong connection with his younger counterpart.
Let’s explore how the actors who played Sheldon Cooper, Iain Armitage, and Jim Parsons are related.
Jim Parsons and Iain Armitage’s Are Not Biologically Related But Share Parallel Paths As Sheldon Cooper
Iain Armitage is not biologically related to Jim Parsons. Both actors play the same character, Sheldon Cooper, in different shows.
Iain Armitage plays the young version of Sheldon Cooper in the spin-off prequel series Young Sheldon, while Jim Parsons portrays the adult Sheldon Cooper in the original series The Big Bang Theory.
The idea for ‘Young Sheldon’ was inspired by Jim Parsons’ own 10-year-old nephew, but Iain Armitage is not actually related to Jim Parsons.
Despite not being related, Jim Parsons and Iain Armitage have developed a close relationship through their work on the shows.
Jim Parsons was initially protective of Iain but grew fond of him, and they have teased a crossover appearance together in the ‘Young Sheldon’ series finale.
Jim Parsons’ Supportive Role in Young Sheldon Balancing Guidance and Respect for Iain Armitage
In 2017, Parsons spoke to Entertainment Tonight about Young Sheldon, expressing admiration for Armitage.
“We have a lot more in common now than I would have had at the same age. I wasn’t mature enough at 9. I was not an overly bright child. I was mediocre. I didn’t befuddle my parents.”
Parsons recounted his reaction when promotional material for Young Sheldon began to appear.
He felt a protective instinct towards Armitage and reached out to Armitage’s mom to offer support.
Parsons’ confidence in Armitage led him to contact Armitage’s mom to protect the young actor from the potential challenges ahead as Young Sheldon gained more attention and recognition.
Armitage said Parsons used to give him tips on how to play Sheldon Cooper, and he was really nice to be with. “He’s really kind and fun to be around and he makes anyone happy.“
Parsons has supported Armitage from the beginning and has tried to keep him safe. But it looks like Parsons also let Armitage have his own space as time passed.
From what we see, Parsons isn’t “overprotective;” he wants what’s best for Armitage.
Additional Information
- Jim Parsons decided to voice Young Sheldon after meeting Iain Armitage, his young counterpart, and forming a strong connection with him.
- Iain Armitage was selected for the role of Sheldon Cooper in Young Sheldon from among numerous young actors because of his talent.
