Murray “Pops” Goldberg’s passing is a pivotal moment in “The Goldbergs,” forever altering the family dynamic. He dies unexpectedly in the episode “Love in a Small Town” (Season 9, Episode 1) while visiting Erica and Geoff in their new home.
The Loss of a Beloved Character: “Love in a Small Town” Deconstructed
The ninth season premiere, “Love in a Small Town,” begins with the Goldbergs excited about Erica and Geoff’s move to their new home in a quieter part of town. Pops, ever the doting grandfather and great-grandfather, is particularly thrilled. He’s eager to experience the simpler life, away from the hustle and bustle of Jenkintown.
However, the joy is short-lived. Pops, after seemingly settling in, passes away peacefully in his sleep. The episode then deals with the family’s grief and how each member copes with the sudden loss. Erica and Geoff grapple with the guilt of him dying in their house, while Beverly, particularly devastated, seeks to keep his memory alive in every way possible. Adam, meanwhile, navigates the complexities of documenting grief through his aspiring filmmaker lens.
“Love in a Small Town” is a poignant tribute to George Segal, the actor who played Pops, who passed away in real life before the season began. The episode uses a combination of existing footage and voiceovers to give Pops a proper send-off. It’s a touching and respectful approach that honors both the character and the actor. The episode isn’t just about death; it’s about remembering the joy Pops brought to the Goldbergs’ lives and how his legacy will continue to influence them.
The Emotional Impact of Pops’ Departure
Pops wasn’t just a grandfather; he was the rock of the Goldberg family, often dispensing unorthodox but surprisingly effective advice. His signature catchphrases, like “I got this,” and his unique perspective on life will be dearly missed. His death leaves a void that profoundly impacts each character:
- Beverly: Bereft and struggling to cope without her beloved Pops, she intensifies her efforts to keep his memory alive.
- Adam: He feels the pressure to memorialize Pops through film, grappling with how to accurately portray such a complex and important figure.
- Erica and Geoff: They are burdened by the circumstances of his death occurring in their home, leading to feelings of responsibility and guilt.
- Barry: While initially struggling to express his emotions, Barry eventually finds a way to honor Pops’ memory through his own unique brand of Goldberg eccentricity.
- The Family Dynamic: The loss of Pops fundamentally shifts the family dynamic, forcing them to rely on each other even more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pops’ Death in “The Goldbergs”
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further insights into Pops’ death and its impact on the show:
FAQ 1: Why did they write Pops out of the show?
The character of Pops was written out of the show due to the untimely passing of actor George Segal in March 2021. The showrunners chose to honor his memory and the character’s impact by giving him a respectful and emotional farewell.
FAQ 2: Was George Segal’s death unexpected?
Yes, George Segal’s death was unexpected. He passed away due to complications from bypass surgery at the age of 87.
FAQ 3: How did “The Goldbergs” handle George Segal’s passing in the show?
The show opted to use a combination of existing footage, voiceovers, and heartfelt tributes to give Pops a meaningful send-off. “Love in a Small Town” served as a memorial episode, celebrating his life and impact on the Goldberg family.
FAQ 4: Did the other actors on “The Goldbergs” know about George Segal’s death beforehand?
Yes, the cast and crew were informed of George Segal’s death. They expressed their grief and shared fond memories of working with him, both on and off-screen. The passing had a profound impact on the entire team.
FAQ 5: What was the significance of Pops’ character to “The Goldbergs”?
Pops served as the voice of reason and unconventional wisdom within the Goldberg family. He was a source of support, humor, and occasionally, chaos. His presence added a unique dynamic to the family relationships, and his advice often helped the younger generation navigate their challenges.
FAQ 6: How did Beverly Goldberg react to Pops’ death in the show?
Beverly was deeply devastated by Pops’ death. She channeled her grief into keeping his memory alive, often through exaggerated and sentimental gestures, reflecting her character’s tendency to over-involve herself in her children’s lives.
FAQ 7: Did Pops’ death change the tone of “The Goldbergs”?
While “The Goldbergs” maintained its comedic elements, Pops’ death introduced a more poignant and reflective tone. The family’s grief and their efforts to cope with his absence became a central theme in subsequent episodes.
FAQ 8: Did “The Goldbergs” introduce a new character to replace Pops?
While the show did introduce new characters, there was no direct replacement for Pops. His unique role within the family was irreplaceable, and the show focused on how the remaining characters adapted to his absence.
FAQ 9: Were there any tributes to George Segal at the end of “Love in a Small Town”?
Yes, at the end of “Love in a Small Town,” there was a heartfelt tribute to George Segal. It included a montage of his best moments as Pops and a touching message acknowledging his contribution to the show.
FAQ 10: How long did “The Goldbergs” continue after George Segal’s death?
“The Goldbergs” continued for two more seasons (seasons 9 and 10) after George Segal’s passing. The show concluded with its tenth season, which honored the original premise and characters.
FAQ 11: Did Adam F. Goldberg (the real-life inspiration for the show) comment on George Segal’s death?
Yes, Adam F. Goldberg shared several heartfelt posts and tributes on social media, expressing his grief and acknowledging the impact George Segal had on his life and the show. He emphasized how much Segal embodied the spirit of his real-life grandfather.
FAQ 12: Is “Love in a Small Town” a difficult episode to watch?
For many viewers, “Love in a Small Town” is emotionally challenging to watch. It’s a poignant reminder of the loss of a beloved character and the real-life passing of a talented actor. However, it is also a respectful and moving tribute to both, making it a worthwhile viewing experience.