Which episode does George die in Young Sheldon? Details explored

In Young Sheldon's Season 7, Episode 12, George suffers a heart attack. The show reveals the news to the family when 2 men arrive at the door and inform them about the tragic news. However, George Cooper's death was already known, keeping in mind what Sheldon says in the original series.

Lance Barber, who played George, dies when Sheldon is 14 years old. Therefore, in an interview, the actor revealed that he was "emotionally prepared" for the death of his character.

While the writers were sure about the character's fate, they were deciding on the right way to do so, and in the episode, George dies off-screen while the family proceeds with the funeral in further episodes.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for Young Sheldon. Reader discretion is advised.

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Which episode does George die in Young Sheldon?

George Cooper is portrayed as a typical father who works hard for his family and is determined for its betterment. The character is shown to have a history of heart problems. In season 1, he suffers a heart attack, and then in season 3, he suffers a mini heart attack. In season 7, he is appointed the head coach of football at Rice University, Houston, the job he always wanted.

Episode 12 begins showcasing a warm family that has now moved to Houston, and Sheldon is planning to move to California for higher studies. George leaves for work, casually saying, "See y'all later," and Mary tells him to be home by 4 pm for a family photo shoot.

A few moments later, the family is informed about his tragic death by heart attack when 2 men, Principal Peterson and Coach Wilkins, arrive at the door. The episode is titled A New Home and Traditional Texas Torture, and the last words of George resonate with the family. The show rightly connects the viewers here with the character and to the image of a 'happy' family before shattering it for the viewers to feel the loss.

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How does the family deal with the death of George Cooper in Young Sheldon?

In the following episodes, we see how the family deals with the death of a beloved character and family member. At the funeral, older Sheldon reflects upon his father's life. He understands how he always spoke negatively about his father, but it's only now, as an adult, that he realises that his father was perfect. This also bridges the gap between Young Sheldon and the Big Bang Theory.

Everybody deals with grief differently. Mary resorts to religion after her husband's death, while Sheldon's aunt becomes an alcoholic for a while. His brother channels his energy toward bargaining with the funeral organizers while Missy abruptly lashes out at people.

Sheldon draws parallels between his father's death and the show Star Trek when Missy asks him what he is thinking about. He answers honestly and his sister yells at him for thinking about the show in such a situation.

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Young Sheldon is available for streaming on several platforms and the new episodes air on CBS.