Jim Parsons spent 12 years playing one of television’s most loved characters, but looking back, he says the biggest lesson from those years had nothing to do with awards or fame.
The actor has admitted there is one part of his ‘The Big Bang Theory‘ journey he would never want to experience again, no matter how much money was on the table.
Jim Parsons Says Fame Of ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Was Not Worth The Stress
Years after ‘The Big Bang Theory‘ wrapped up, Parsons is looking back at the show’s biggest years with a very different perspective. Speaking on the All Out with Jon Dean podcast, he admitted that the pressure he lived under made those years much harder than they appeared.
“I wouldn’t do that again for any amount of money,” Parsons said. “It was stressful and miserable at times.”
Related: Simon Helberg Recalls Bizarre ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Pilot That Turned Sheldon Into A Ladies’ Man
Even though the sitcom made him one of television’s highest-paid actors, Parsons believes no amount of success is worth sacrificing his peace of mind. Today, he says he values a healthier balance between work and life far more than chasing perfection.
Parsons explained that nobody pushed him harder than he pushed himself. He constantly expected more from his own performances and rarely gave himself the chance to relax or simply enjoy the success around him. “I made myself miserable,” he admitted.
Parsons Has No Plans To Live Like That Again
Looking back, Parsons said he became so wrapped up in the show and everything that came with its worldwide popularity that he missed many experiences outside work.
In case you missed it: Why Kaley Cuoco Opposed Penny’s Pregnancy in ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Finale
Even now, he feels those habits may have helped him build a successful career. “I can’t say it wasn’t part of what made me successful because that’s how I was,” he explained. “But I wouldn’t choose to live like that again.”
Despite the difficult memories, Parsons says he is thankful for everything the sitcom brought into his life. The series gave him lifelong friendships and opened the door to many new opportunities that changed the rest of his career.
Since the show ended, Parsons has continued working across television, film, and theatre. These days, he is choosing projects that let him enjoy the work instead of getting lost in the pressure that once defined his life.
You might also like to read: 5 ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Moments That Didn’t Age Well
