“There was a lot of crying…Kaley, in particular”: Kaley Cuoco Could Not Make Eye Contact With Big Bang Theory Co-Star Jim Parsons After Heartbreaking News
Jim Parsons’ decision to leave The Big Bang Theory highly influenced the popular sitcom’s cancellation. While everyone had a different reaction to the news, Kaley Cuoco was devastated after getting the news. Cuoco played the role of Penelope Hofstadter, aka Penny in the series. The show ran successfully for 12 seasons and concluded with Season 12 after Jim Parsons decided not to renew his contract for the next two seasons of the show.
The Big Bang Theory was renewed for two seasons in March 2017. However, viewers were caught off guard in August 2018 when the producers announced that Season 12 would be the last season of the show. Jessica Radloff’s The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series reveals how the Meet Cute star reacted to the news.
Kaley Cuoco Was Devastated By the Show’s Cancellation
Jessica Radloff’s book reveals that the whole cast of The Big Bang Theory had different reactions to the news. Johnny Galecki, who portrayed Leonard Hofstadter in the sitcom was not very happy with Parsons’ decision. While some of the stars of the show were supportive of his decision, Kaley Cuoco was heartbroken.
American film director, Chuck Lorre, revealed that Parsons’ decision to leave the show was a shock for everyone, especially for Cuoco. He said, “There was a lot of crying in the room. Kaley, in particular. It was a blow. And there was no way to soften it by giving them a heads-up. I didn’t know any other way to do it.”
The Wedding Ringer star also shared that she was shocked by her co-star’s decision. During an interview, she shared, “And I was so shocked that I was literally like, ‘Continue on with what?’ Like, I didn’t even know what he was talking about. I looked at Chuck: ‘Wow. I thought we were, I’m so blown away right now.'”
She also shared that she cried for hours because almost every member of the cast was hoping to have another season. It caused some tension between Parsons and Cuoco and The Flight Attendant star was not her usual self for a few days.
Why Did Jim Parsons Decide to Leave The Big Bang Theory?
Things were soon resolved between Kaley Cuoco and Jim Parsons. Steve Molaro revealed that slowly the whole cast got along and the finale happened peacefully. However, many people still blame the Spoiler Alert star for the cancellation of the show.
Jim Parsons shared in his interview with USA Today that the thought came to him after season 11 ended. He also shared that reflecting on his father’s passing led him to make the decision.
Parsons also claimed that he gave 12 years of his life and career to the show and wanted to explore more. Although Johnny Galecki was upset with his decision initially, he also shared that everyone was comfortable with the idea of wrapping up the show after 12 seasons.
The Big Bang Theory is available to stream on HBO Max.
Source: The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series
