Sara Gilbert, known for her role in The Big Bang Theory, has recently shared insights about her character, Dr. Leslie Winkle, and the potential for her return in the evolving Big Bang universe. Following the success of spinoffs like Young Sheldon and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, a new series titled Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is on the horizon. The familiar face of Kevin Sussman will reprise his role as Stuart Bloom, with other returning talents including Lauren Lapkus as Denise and Brian Posehn as Bert. While this exciting new installment is in development for the Max streaming service, it has yet to receive official approval.
In a candid interview on The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast, highlighted by Entertainment Weekly, Gilbert expressed her willingness to return as Dr. Leslie Winkle. Noting that the writers may have exhausted the character’s potential storylines, she remarked on the challenges in continuing her narrative:
Yeah, I would do more. I would have done more at the time. I think the writers kind of hit a wall with the character, probably also because she leaves these dynamics quickly, you know, then kind of like, well, what do you do now? She’s wired like that, and she left, and then there’s no more story there, really. But yeah it was a blast, and I like to work, so I’m always happy to show up.
The Implications of Gilbert’s Comments for the Next TBBT Spinoff
Return of Recognizable Characters
Gilbert’s reflections reveal the writers’ uncertainty regarding Dr. Winkle’s place within the series. Initially cast as a main character, her role was eventually reduced to a recurring status after only nine episodes, with her final appearance serving as a cameo during the milestone 200th episode of The Big Bang Theory.
Audiences enjoyed the playful banter between Gilbert’s character and Sheldon Cooper, often featuring competitive exchanges that lit up the screen. Additionally, her prior collaboration with Johnny Galecki on Roseanne added a layer of depth to their interactions. Despite the missed opportunity for a romance between Leslie Winkle and Leonard, the upcoming Stuart spinoff is expected to leverage familiar faces to attract viewers, tapping into the extensive array of characters from the original series.
Analysis of Leslie Winkle’s Potential Return
Exploring New Dynamics
As Gilbert concludes her successful tenure on The Conners, there’s potential for her to make guest appearances on Stuart’s new series. Introducing Dr. Winkle into a different group dynamic could showcase her character in an innovative light and may reveal new narrative possibilities. If Gilbert is unavailable, however, the spinoff has an extensive roster of The Big Bang Theory alumni to incorporate, enriching the narrative fabric of the new series.
For more insights, check out The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast along with coverage from Entertainment Weekly.