The Big Bang Theory's latest spinoff, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, has made a splash on HBO Max, but it's not the kind of splash that critics are necessarily applauding. This new series, set in the expansive universe of The Big Bang Theory, introduces Stuart Bloom, a character familiar to fans as the comic book store owner from the original show. In this spinoff, Stuart finds himself in a multiverse-altering predicament, tasked with restoring reality after a mishap with a device built by Sheldon and Leonard.
The show's debut on Rotten Tomatoes has set a record, but it's a record that might not be celebrated by the franchise's loyal fans. With a 72% approval score, it's just 3% shy of the Certified Fresh threshold, making it the lowest-rated entry in the franchise. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it's a failure. In fact, it provides an opportunity for growth and improvement, as evidenced by the franchise's own history.
The Big Bang Theory's first season had a 59% score, and Stuart Fails to Save the Universe could potentially reach that level. Seasons 2, 3, 5, and 7, on the other hand, boast perfect scores, indicating a high bar for quality. The flagship series, The Big Bang Theory, has an impressive 81% approval score across all 12 seasons, and a similar 85% from the audience, setting a benchmark for success.
Young Sheldon, a prequel to the original series, follows closely with a 76% approval score. While the other five seasons of Young Sheldon didn't receive enough entries for a critics' score, the seventh and final season of the show has a 100% score, though it doesn't have an overall rating. The best-rated series overall remains Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage, with an 89% score from critics, but this rating only comes from Season 1, as Season 2 didn't receive enough ratings for an overall score.
Critics have offered mixed reviews for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe. Some praise its ability to give overlooked characters their own journey, while others find it light and fleeting, perfect for what it's intended to be. The show's constant change and departure from the comforting sameness of The Big Bang Theory-style hangouts have been noted, but the comic chemistry among the main players provides just enough to keep viewers engaged.
Despite the mixed reactions, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe continues to release new episodes on Thursdays on HBO Max until its Season 1 finale on September 24. The show's unique premise and the introduction of alternate-universe versions of beloved characters from the franchise make it a must-watch for fans of The Big Bang Theory, even if it doesn't quite hit the same heights as its predecessors.
In my opinion, the show's low rating on Rotten Tomatoes is an opportunity for the creators to refine and improve the series. The constant change and departure from the original show's style might be a necessary evolution, and the introduction of new characters and storylines could be a refreshing addition to the franchise. As the show progresses, it will be interesting to see how it navigates the challenges of maintaining quality while staying true to the spirit of The Big Bang Theory.
