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TOPIC: Who Plays Sheldon Cooper?

We're all familiar with that lovable, fanatically smart Caltech genius on The Big Bang Theory, Sheldon Cooper, but you might be wondering--who is that incredibly magnetic guy playing the role of Sheldon?

Actor Jim Parsons at the 36th Annual People's Choice Awards
(image: Albert L. Ortega / PR Photos)

Meet Jim Parsons (or James Joseph Parsons), Texas born American actor and now Emmy nominated star of The Big Bang Theory. His charm and complete ownership of the character lure nearly 16 million television viewers each week, all who tune in to watch his hilarious and even endearing portrayal of Sheldon Cooper.

Yet, if you look at Jim's background you might begin to suspect that Parsons and Cooper are possibly the same person.

Both are Texas natives, are peculiar about car travel (Parsons strongly prefers to drive while Sheldon avoids the wheel), both have a father who has passed and each have a sibling sister, both began their respective careers young (Parsons started acting at age 6), both are quirky about hand sanitation, and each hold higher degrees (Parsons obtained a Masters at the University of San Diego).

For that matter, Jim admits that he and Sheldon even share some personality traits.

"I can be a little obsessive with things, but not quite to the degree (Sheldon) can," said Parsons, during an interview with USA Today.

His role as Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory isn't the only place Parsons has flexed his theatrical muscle, however.

To date he has made several movie appearances including that of Tim in 2004's Garden State, Justin in The Great New Wonderful, and more recently in the role of Spim in 2007's Gardener of Eden.

(Anyone want to take bets on Jim appearing in another movie beginning with the letter "G"?)

Although featuring only a brief television career before receiving the role of Sheldon Cooper, namely in the role of Rob Holbrook on the TV drama Judging Amy, Parsons has more recently made a guest appearance on comedy cartoon Family Guy as, you guessed it, Sheldon Cooper!

So what does the future hold for Jim Parsons and character Sheldon Cooper?

"As far as the future goes, you know, I don't know. I guess my future hinges much more for me on the job I have right now," said Parsons to A.V. Club interviewer Noel Murray. "The most I can do is just do this job and this character the best and the strongest I know how."

Don't worry Sheldon fans, CBS has already sent word that Jim Parsons and the rest of The Big Bang Theory have at least two more seasons ahead of them. Hurrah for us!

Additional information and sources for this article include:

Bill Keveney, Big Bang-Up Role for Jim Parsons, USA Today

Noel Murray, Interview: Jim Parsons, A.V. Club