In Episode 16 of Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, viewers will uncover the fascinating explanation for why Pastor Jeff (Matt Hobby) is missing in The Big Bang Theory.
Even though Young Sheldon has concluded, the legacy of Sheldon’s family lives on in Texas as the spotlight shifts to his brother and his new life with his wife and young daughter. While Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage may not be as closely tied to The Big Bang Theory as its predecessor, it cleverly unravels some of the lesser-known details of the Cooper family saga.
Due to Georgie’s strong ties to his family in Texas, Mary, Missy, and Meemaw have all made appearances in Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage. To strengthen the link to Young Sheldon, several other recognizable characters have also returned in this sequel spinoff, including Pastor Jeff, who has made a few cameo appearances.
This has sparked some debate, particularly since Sheldon himself has not shown up in The Big Bang Theory spinoff. While it may appear trivial, his recent cameo answers a lingering question regarding the Coopers in the beloved nerd-centric sitcom.
The Dynamic Between Mary & Pastor Jeff Is Strained
Pastor Jeff makes a comeback in Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage during Mary’s reunion with Georgie. The story focuses on the tension between Baby Ceecee’s parents regarding the decision to have another child. While Georgie is enthusiastic about the idea, Mandy is hesitant, as she aspires to establish her career in broadcasting.
This leads Georgie to visit her mother’s church to donate baby clothes, where she collaborates with Pastor Jeff. For a significant period, Mary’s connection with her pastor has been a crucial element in Young Sheldon’s narrative, but it appears that things have shifted.

Following George’s passing, Mary seems to have immersed herself in her work. Yet, her dynamic with Pastor Jeff, who is also her superior, has grown increasingly strained.
Previously, the Cooper matriarch was quite accommodating towards him, but now she appears easily annoyed and even exasperated, marking a notable shift. The reasons behind this change remain uncertain, but it is poised to have significant implications for their future.
Matt Hobby Has No Justification For Being Part of The Big Bang Theory
If Mary (Zoe Perry) and Pastor Jeff’s relationship continues to decline, it’s likely that by the time Georgie and Mandy’s First marriage coincides with the timeline of The Big Bang Theory, they may no longer be in touch. This could clarify why Pastor Jeff was never mentioned or appeared in the beloved nerdy sitcom.
While the real reason is that the character was not created yet, and by the time Young Sheldon brought him in, it was too late for The Big Bang Theory to include a cameo, it’s still satisfying to have an in-universe rationale for his absence.
Had Mary and Pastor Jeff sustained their relationship during The Big Bang Theory, he might have been invited to officiate Sheldon and Amy’s wedding.
While Mark Hamill was undoubtedly the ideal choice, it would have been a fantastic chance to connect a supporting character from Young Sheldon to the original series. Regardless, we can only hope that Georgie and Mandy’s First Marriage explores their evolving dynamic.