‘The Big Bang Theory’ season 9 spoilers: Judd Hirsch to play Leonard’s father

It is crazy in some ways that we have not met Leonard’s father yet on “The Big Bang Theory,” but the reality is the reality … and let’s just say that we are rather happy to say that we are meeting him now. None other than “Taxi” icon Judd Hirsch will be playing the part!

While at PaleyFest this week discussing the show, star Johnny Galecki made it clear (per Entertainment Weekly) that had actually helped with the casting while meeting him at the recent NBC tribute to James Burrows:

“I met this fellow a month or two ago and he’s a hero of mine and I knew that he was a hero of [executive producers Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady], so I just accosted him and cornered him and practically made him commit on the spot to play my father … I’m really excited about it. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Hearing this news of course makes us satisfied, especially since it pushes us closer to meeting most of the characters’ parents in some shape or form. There are still some missing links that are out there for the original five cast members. For example, we have not yet met Penny’s mother, and Howard’s father, despite being the focus of some storylines in the past, has not surfaced again. We’re a little surprised that we have not seen his half-brother again recently, but maybe that is something that will be coming up in due time. We just hope that we get to meet most people before the show comes to a close.

For now, what do you think about Hirsch getting the gig? Share with a comment, and head over here to get some more TV news on everything we cover, sent right over to you via our official CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: CBS.)