The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast launched today with an episode dedicated to the unaired pilot of The Big Bang Theory, originally developed for the 2006/07 TV season.

In the debut episode, host Jessica Radloff, author of the New York Times bestseller The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series, chats with TBBT co-creator Chuck Lorre and former Warner Bros. Television group chairman Peter Roth about the unusual second chance the show was given during its development.

The origins of The Big Bang Theory date back to 2005, nearly two decades ago, with a pilot taped in 2006 for the 2006/07 season. This pilot featured Jim Parsons and Johnny Galecki as Sheldon and Leonard, but did not include the Howard or Raj characters. A different actress also played a role similar to Penny, though with a very different character. In this podcast episode, Radloff, Lorre and Roth discuss the changes made between the unaired pilot and the second, successful attempt.

In the next episode, dropping March 24, Jessica Radloff will discuss the Pilot episode of The Big Bang Theory - the one that made it to air - with legendary TV director James Burrows, who directed both pilots.

Future guests include cast members Kunal Nayyar, Kevin Sussman and John Ross Bowie. Recurring guest stars Sara Gilbert (Leslie Winkle), Christine Baranski (Beverly Hofstadter), Vernee Watson (Nurse Althea) and Sara Rue (Leonard's girlfriend Stephanie) are also set to join Radloff to talk about the show.

The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast releases weekly on Max and all major podcast platforms, including Apple, Amazon and Spotify.

The podcast is produced by Warner Bros. Unscripted Television in partnership with Max, the exclusive streaming home of The Big Bang Theory in the United States.

Find out more about The Official Big Bang Theory Podcast