TV The Big Bang Theory spinoff eyes Big Little Lies star as young Sheldon Cooper Iain Armitage would play a young version of Jim Parsons' character, but who would play his mother? By Natalie Abrams Natalie Abrams Senior Writer EW's editorial guidelines Published on March 2, 2017 01:00PM EST Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS via Getty Images; Steve Granitz/WireImage Jim Parsons, meet your younger self. CBS is eyeing Iain Armitage to play a young Sheldon Cooper, the character made famous by Parsons on the CBS comedy, in the rumored Big Bang Theory spinoff, EW has learned. The Untitled Sheldon Project, which has not yet been picked up to pilot — WB and CBS won’t even confirm its existence — would focus on Sheldon’s formative years. As such, the potential comedy is also in talks with Zoe Perry to play Sheldon’s God-fearing mother, Mary Cooper. On the flagship series, the role was played by Laurie Metcalf, who scored an Emmy nomination for her portrayal. The casting of Perry would be ingenious since Metcalf is the actress’ mother in real life — her father is Scandal‘s Jeff Perry. Should the project move forward, none of the flagship series’ cast is attached besides Parsons, who would executive produce with Big Bang Theory executive producers Bill Prady, Chuck Lorre, and Steve Molaro. Currently in its 10th season, The Big Bang Theory is the No. 1 comedy in primetime, with CBS eyeing a two-season renewal should contract negotiations with the cast close. The Big Bang Theory airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.