'Big Bang Theory' actor producing new series 'Prodigies'

Playing a prodigy on CBS' "The Big Bang Theory" has evidently rubbed off on star Jim Parsons.

The Emmy winner is spearheading the development of a new series based on the popular YouTube program "Prodigies." Launched by Radical Media's THNKR Channel in July, the web-series spotlights child geniuses including a 15-year-old self-taught inventor, a 14-year-old computer programmer, as well as gifted poets and athletes. The documentary series has brought in more than 100,000 subscribers and 12 million views since its launch.

“The THNKR Channel is born out of the idea that a large and engaged audience passionately desires smart entertainment. The overwhelming online success of 'Prodigies' has proven that if done well, small-screen content can pack a big punch," said Justin Wilkes, Radical Media president of media and entertainment. "We're ecstatic to be collaborating with Jim on bringing this program to life on longer-form television."

The new series, early in the development stages, sounds much like "The Big Bang Theory," in that it will follow a group of wunderkinds as they balance their exceptional talents with the trials and tribulations of being a kid.

"I knew within a few minutes of viewing my first episode of 'Prodigies' that I wanted to be a part of the team bringing the digital series to a wider audience via television," Parsons said in a statement announcing the series. "Spending time with these geniuses, these children, soaring and struggling with their gifts and their talents is inspiring and entertaining in a way that great television is. 'Prodigies' reveals something about the human spirit with such joy and insight, which is why it achieved such a passionate following on the Internet. I think there are many more people out there that will find this irresistible, like I do."