'The Big Bang Theory' makes Kevin Sussman a regular

"The Big Bang Theory" universe is expanding a little more with the promotion of one of its recurring actors to series regular.

Kevin Sussman, who plays comic-shop manager Stuart on the CBS comedy, has been upped to a regular role, Deadline reports. He likely won't appear in every episode this season, but fans can expect to see more of Stuart.

Sussman has appeared in 15 "Big Bang" episodes over the past four seasons, including six in 2011-12. His character played a key role in making Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Amy (Mayim Bialik) a couple. When Stuart asked Amy out in "The Flaming Spittoon Acquisition," it made Sheldon realize he wanted to make things official.

Sussman's other credits include a run on "Ugly Betty" and guest roles on "Weeds," "The Mentalist" and "The Middleman," as well as the movies "Wet Hot American Summer," "Sweet Home Alabama" and "AI: Artificial Intelligence."

"The Big Bang Theory" begins its sixth season on CBS on Sept. 27.