The Big Bang Theory is getting a prequel all about Sheldon Cooper

The Big Bang Theory is going back in time to bring you a prequel. Photo / Supplied

A spin-off to the hugely successful comedy show The Big Bang Theory is currently in the works.

The prequel will be about a young Sheldon Cooper, currently played by Emmy award winner Jim Parsons, and is being developed for CBS, the Daily Mail reports.

The potential new series is being kept under wraps but it has been said that the story will centre on a teenage version of Jim's character.

Jim Parsons stars as Dr Sheldon Cooper in The Big Bang Theory. Photo / Supplied

Apparently none of The Big Bang Theory cast members will star in the show, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Jim is set to executive produce the series with Big Bang co-creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady.

Showrunner Steve Molaro is also supposed to be involved.

Apparently Molaro will write the script focusing on Sheldon, the neurotic socially awkward genius, as a youth growing up in Texas.

Sheldon Cooper's quirks have made him an audience favourite. Photo / Supplied

The character's family and formative years have often been referenced on the show, and Laurie Metcalf received an Emmy nomination this year for her recurring guest star role as Sheldon's mother, Mary Cooper.

The pilot has not been written yet but sources say that it is top of the list for a series pickup for next season.

Currently on The Big Bang Theory the stars of the show, including Parsons, Johnny Galecki and Kaley Cuoco, currently make about US $1 million per episode in addition to a piece of the series' lucrative back-end.

The Big Bang Theory is currently in its 10th season and has not yet been renewed for season 11.