Young Sheldon star Iain Armitage posts emotional goodbye after finale

After playing Young Sheldon for seven years, Iain Armitage has bid farewell to the role in an emotional social media post following the Season 7 finale.

Two years beforeThe Big Bang Theorycame to an end, Chuck Lorre and the show’s creatives came up with an idea: a prequel series following the early years of Sheldon through high school, college, and eventually landing at Caltech.

Iain Armitage in Young Sheldon and a screenshot of his Instagram

Many were skeptical aboutYoung Sheldon, but it continually proved its critics wrong with strong ratings and a loyal fan base — and Armitage deserves much of the credit, leading the sitcom from the age of nine all the way into his teenage years.

The actor has appeared in other shows and movies; notably, he played Ziggy in Big Little Lies. However,Young Sheldonis undoubtedly his most well-known role — and the significance of its conclusion isn’t lost on him.

Iain Armitage’s Young Sheldon Instagram post

In a newInstagram post, Armitage wrote: “I’ve always wondered what this day would feel like and now it’s here! Thank you for a wonderful ride.

“I will miss everyone so much and I want you to know that it’s been an honor to play this part, and it’s been a joy to work with people I love so much. I’m excited to see what’s next and I hope you’ll join me on the next chapter, whatever that is. I truly hope you enjoy the finale. It was made with a lot of love.”

Denise and Stuart dressed up in Big Bang Theory.

It’s amassed hundreds of thousands of likes across Instagram and Facebook, as well as a flood of messages from fans. “You are so loved! What an incredible journey and show for such a phenomenally talented young man,” one wrote.

“You are amazing and I see a great future for you. You’ll be surrounded by friends, marry a neuroscientist, and win a Nobel prize in Physics. In all seriousness Iain, I really do see great things ahead for you,” another commented. “Couldn’t have asked for a better young Sheldon. You are perfect! Wishing you the best ahead,” a third wrote.

Missy and Mary look at a card while George enters the door and Sheldon looks on in Young Sheldon

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Make sure you check out ourbreakdown of Young Sheldon’s actual ending, as well as our recaps ofEpisode 13and14, details aboutGeorgie and Mandy’s spinoff, and otherbinge-worthy TV showsto add to your list.