New Comedy “Young Sheldon”: more sincere and serious

Iain Armitage in "Young Sheldon." Photo by CBS

Young Sheldon is a spin-off series of the popular TV show The Big Bang Theory. The series is set in 1989 Texas in Sheldon’s family home. The show follows a young Sheldon as he struggles with the burdens of being a child genius.

The show has been a huge success in the US and is rated as 4th best US TV show with Big Bang Theory in 2nd. It is now running on E4 in the UK.

The success of the series lies in the sensitive interpretation of a young Sheldon’s mind. It explores his own development into the grown-up Sheldon we have grown to love, but also explores how the family has had to adapt to his struggles.

The show has a slightly different humor to Big Bang Theory and relies somewhat on the fact that Iain Armitage, who plays young Sheldon, gives a very endearing performance. One of the big differences is that unlike Big Bang Theory, the show does not feature canned laughter. This adds a level of sincerity and a touch of seriousness to the comedy.

All in all, we can see why the show was an immediate success in the US. As far as prequels go, Young Sheldon is surprisingly watchable.