Sara Gilbert Would Totally Reprise Her Big Bang Theory Role – And She's Not Done Yet
If you’re a fan of The Big Bang Theory, there’s a good chance you remember the snarky, brilliant Dr. Leslie Winkle. She was that no-nonsense, quick-witted experimental physicist who worked in the same lab as Leonard Hofstadter—and occasionally tangled with Sheldon Cooper. Played by Sara Gilbert, Leslie had a unique charm that made her pop every time she showed up on screen. And now? Gilbert is making it clear: she’s still very much open to returning.
“It was a blast, and I like to work, so I’m always happy to show up.”
That’s what Gilbert had to say during her recent chat on The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast, hosted by Jessica Radloff. And yes, her enthusiasm for the show and her character hasn’t faded, even years after the series wrapped up.
“I Would Have Done More…”
In a clip from her appearance on the podcast, Gilbert didn't hesitate when asked if she’d be down for more episodes—or even a role in the upcoming Big Bang Theory spinoff. Her answer?
“Yeah, I would do more. I would have done more at the time.”
That moment alone probably sent longtime fans into a frenzy. After all, who doesn’t want to see Leslie Winkle and her deadpan delivery back in action? Gilbert went on to say that she always enjoyed being part of the show, and that working with the cast and crew was a great experience.
Why Did Leslie Winkle Vanish, Anyway?
As much as fans loved her, Leslie's presence on The Big Bang Theory was sporadic. She appeared here and there throughout seasons 1, 2, and 3, and then made a brief cameo in season 9’s milestone 200th episode—Sheldon’s birthday bash—where she hilariously called him a “dumbass.” Classic Leslie.
So why didn’t she stick around longer?
Gilbert shared some insight, saying that the writers likely “hit a wall” with the character. She explained that Leslie was written in a way that didn’t easily lend itself to long-term story arcs.
“She’s wired like that, and she left, and then there’s no more story there, really.”
That abruptness is part of Leslie’s character—someone who’s independent, unapologetically blunt, and quick to move on. So while that made her refreshing, it also made it tough for the writers to build ongoing plotlines around her.
Behind the Writers’ Room Curtain
In Jessica Radloff’s book The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series, executive producer Steve Molaro offered his perspective on Leslie’s role in the show’s bigger picture. He admitted that they were experimenting with different story directions early on, especially when it came to Leonard’s love life.
Molaro revealed:
“We wanted love interests for Leonard and were just looking for stories. It was also a great way to add female scientists, because Leslie was at the university as well.”
And let’s not forget—Sara Gilbert and Johnny Galecki already had chemistry from their days on Roseanne, where they also played love interests. That real-life familiarity added a nice layer to their dynamic on The Big Bang Theory.
Still, the goal wasn’t to find Leonard a long-term partner early in the series. The producers always envisioned him having an on-again, off-again relationship with Penny, played by Kaley Cuoco. So Leslie Winkle was more of a side quest—fun, sharp, but ultimately temporary.
The Legacy of The Big Bang Theory
Before we jump into what’s next, let’s take a second to appreciate just how massive The Big Bang Theory was. Running from 2007 to 2019 on CBS, the series aired a whopping 279 episodes over 12 seasons. That’s legendary territory.
The show took a group of socially awkward, brilliant scientists and made them TV icons. With unforgettable characters like Sheldon, Leonard, Penny, Raj, and Howard, it delivered laughs, heart, and a surprising amount of relatability.
Leslie Winkle may not have had a main role throughout the series, but her presence certainly made waves whenever she dropped in. That dry wit? That take-no-prisoners attitude? It was always a treat.
What’s the Deal with the Spinoff?
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—the Big Bang Theory spinoff. Announced back in April 2023, the project has been shrouded in mystery, but in October 2024, some intriguing details finally emerged.
Here’s what we know so far:
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Title (tentative): Stuart Fails to Save the Universe
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Platform: Max (formerly HBO Max)
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In Development: Not officially greenlit yet, but big names are attached.
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Returning Characters: Kevin Sussman (Stuart), Brian Posehn (Bert), and Lauren Lapkus (Denise) are all set to reprise their roles.
That’s right—Stuart, the lovable, awkward comic book store owner, might be at the center of this new chapter. And with Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, and Bill Prady—some of the original creative minds—steering the ship, it’s hard not to get hyped.
Could Leslie Make a Comeback?
So, now that we know a new Big Bang universe is forming, the big question is: could Leslie Winkle be part of it?
Given Gilbert’s excitement and openness, the possibility definitely exists. Even though her original run was brief, she left an impression strong enough to earn a spot in the show’s most memorable moments. Bringing her back, even for a few scenes, would be a nostalgic treat for long-time fans—and a great way to bridge old and new.
Here’s Why We’d Love to See Her Again:
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🔬 Representation of smart, no-nonsense women in science? Check.
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😏 That dry humor and legendary one-liners? Absolutely.
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🎉 A surprise return in a spinoff series? Instant fan-favorite moment.
Final Thoughts
Sara Gilbert’s stint as Dr. Leslie Winkle may have been short-lived, but it was anything but forgettable. She brought a fierce, funny, and refreshing energy to The Big Bang Theory, and clearly, she’s not closing the door on that world just yet.
With a new spinoff in the works and some familiar faces returning, maybe—just maybe—we’ll get another glimpse of the woman who once called Sheldon Cooper a “dumbass” at his own birthday party. And honestly? We’re all here for it.
Because in the end, as Gilbert put it so perfectly:
“I like to work, so I’m always happy to show up.”
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