In The Big Bang Theory, Jim Parson's character Sheldon originally had a different name in the sitcom before the showrunners decided to change it: Kenny. Today, Sheldon is a household name; his Big Bang Theory character was so successful that he received a spinoff show, Young Sheldon. Had things played out differently, that spinoff should might have been called something completely different.

In 2007, CBS debuted The Big Bang Theory, a sitcom that followed the day-to-day lives of a group of young adults living in Pasadena, California: Sheldon, Leonard (Johnny Galecki), Penny (Kaley Cuoco), Howard (Simon Helberg) and Raj (Kunal Nayyar). By season 4, guests stars Melissa Rauch's Bernadette and Mayim Bialik's Amy were promoted to series regulars, effectively expanding The Big Bang Theory's cast. For years, it functioned as an ensemble show, but it's clear that the narrative's main hook was Sheldon. While not all narrative focused on him, he remained a pivotal part every episode. This is proven when it launched its first spin-off series titled Young Sheldon that depicts the childhood of its title character. However, at one point, Parsons' bright but socially-inept character had a completely different name.

Related: Big Bang Theory Goof: Penny Forgot Her Dad's Name

The Big Bang Theory was originally titled after its three primary characters; Sheldon's name was going to be Kenny, hence the original title, Lenny, Penny, and Kenny. The new name "Sheldon" was brought out by the decision to pay homage to one of the most prolific TV producers — the late Sheldon Leonard — by naming the sitcom's two leading men after him. The small screen legend produced The Danny Thomas Show (1953-64), The Andy Griffith Show (1960-68), The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961-66) and I Spy (1965-68). He's also informally credited for developing the use of backdoor pilots, in which a show uses one of its episode to kick-off another series. Aside from being a producer extraordinaire, Leonard also dabbled in acting, having supporting roles in It's A Wonderful Life (1946) and To Have and Have Not (1944).

Leonard and Sheldon in The Big Bang Theory

Based on what is publicly known about The Big Bang Theory's pre-production days, it seems that the decision to change from Kenny to Sheldon happened before the unaired pilot was shot. In the original  premiere, which was significantly changed to address screen test results, Parsons' character's name was already Sheldon. While there were some minor tweaks in his characteristics, opting for a more naive personality when it comes to physical intimacy rather than being overly-sexualized, Sheldon pretty much retained all his signature quirks.

It's unknown if there's a deeper meaning behind The Big Bang Theory initially naming one of its primary characters Kenny, but it's good that they opted against it. The creative decision more likely had something to do with the sitcom retitling from Lenny, Penny, and Kenny — arguably one of the best decisions the creators ever made since the original name is simply horrendous.

More: What Happened In The Big Bang Theory’s Original Pilot (& Why It Was Changed)