'Big Bang Theory' star Johnny Galecki returns to acting career after 13 years

Johnny Galecki is making his long-awaited return to acting after stepping away from the spotlight for seven years.

The Big Bang Theory star will portray legendary playwright Tennessee Williams in the upcoming Chicago stage production of Kowalski marking his first acting role since taking an extended break from television and film.

"For the last seven years, I've been fortunate enough to spend more time living than performing," Galecki wrote on nstagram. "It turns out those aren't separate pursuits for me."

He added that he was honoured to return to the stage in Chicago the city where he began his acting career while portraying one of his literary heroes.

"The planets aligned," he said. "Gregg's writing, Colin's vision, and the feeling that after seven years of quietly observing life, I finally had something new to bring back to the work. Add to that the privilege of portraying one of my artistic heroes, and it became impossible to say no."

Known for keeping his personal life private Galecki has largely stayed out of the public eye during his hiatus.

He has occasionally shared glimpses of family life including a recent trip to Disneyland with his wife Morgan Galecki their daughter Oona and his son Avery whom he shares with former partner Alaina Meyer.

Posting photos from the family outing Galecki wrote "More unforgettable memories made. Such a perfect age for the Shorties. (And by 'Shorties,' I mean the Wife and I.)"

Kowalski will run in Chicago from Sept. 19 through Oct. 25 with tickets going on sale July 15.

For Galecki the production marks the beginning of a new chapter after years spent away from acting bringing him back to the stage where his career first began.