The original Roseanne sitcom concluded its initial run with a two-part finale on May 20, 1997. However, the series was revived in 2018, only to be canceled after a single season, making its final episode air on May 22, 2018, a different conclusion altogether.
A Comedy Legacy: From Working Class Roots to Cancellation
Roseanne, a television sitcom that resonated deeply with American audiences, depicted the everyday struggles and triumphs of a working-class family, the Conners, in the fictional town of Lanford, Illinois. The show, known for its realistic portrayal of family life and often controversial social commentary, enjoyed immense popularity throughout its original nine seasons. However, the journey to its various endings was fraught with behind-the-scenes drama and ultimately, controversy.
The Original Finale: A Divisive Conclusion
The original series finale in 1997, titled “Into the Good Light” Parts 1 & 2, proved to be particularly divisive among fans. It revealed a shocking twist: much of the previous season’s events, including the Conners winning the lottery, were merely Roseanne’s fictionalized writing. This narrative choice, altering the show’s established reality, left many viewers feeling betrayed and unsatisfied. Dan, played by John Goodman, had not survived his heart attack, a stark contrast to the previous season’s hopeful ending.
The Revival and Subsequent Cancellation
After two decades, ABC revived Roseanne in 2018, bringing back the original cast. The revival was a ratings juggernaut, proving the enduring appeal of the characters and their relatable struggles. The premiere episode drew a massive audience, signaling a successful return. However, the revival’s success was short-lived. Following a controversial tweet by Roseanne Barr that was widely considered racist, ABC swiftly canceled the show. This cancellation resulted in the show’s second, and arguably more definitive, end. The cancellation occurred before the renewal of a second season of the revival.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Roseanne’s Final Episodes
Here are some of the most common questions surrounding the ending of Roseanne, providing a comprehensive overview of the series’ complex history and controversial final chapters:
FAQ 1: Why was the original Roseanne series finale so controversial?
The original finale’s controversy stemmed from its narrative twist. The revelation that the lottery win was a fabrication, and that Dan had died, fundamentally altered the established reality of the show. Viewers felt that the happy ending they had hoped for was snatched away, replaced with a darker, more cynical portrayal of the Conners’ lives. The twist felt like a betrayal of the show’s core values: honest portrayal of hardship, and perseverance.
FAQ 2: What happened to the Roseanne revival after its cancellation?
Following the cancellation of the Roseanne revival, ABC decided to create a spin-off series called The Conners. This show continued the story of the Conner family, excluding Roseanne Barr’s character, who was written off the show. The Conners has found a degree of success, continuing to explore the challenges faced by the working-class family.
FAQ 3: How was Roseanne Barr’s character written off of The Conners?
In The Conners, Roseanne’s character was said to have died from an accidental opioid overdose. This plot device addressed the real-world controversy surrounding Barr while allowing the show to continue exploring the themes of addiction and its impact on families.
FAQ 4: Did the original cast members return for The Conners?
Yes, most of the original cast members, including John Goodman (Dan), Laurie Metcalf (Jackie), Sara Gilbert (Darlene), and Michael Fishman (D.J.), returned for The Conners. They continued to play their respective roles, albeit without Roseanne’s presence.
FAQ 5: Was John Goodman initially hesitant to return to the Roseanne revival without Roseanne Barr?
While John Goodman publicly expressed his support for Roseanne Barr, reports suggested he was initially hesitant about continuing the show without her. However, he ultimately agreed to participate in The Conners, believing that the story of the Conner family deserved to continue.
FAQ 6: How did ratings for The Conners compare to the Roseanne revival?
While The Conners did not achieve the same blockbuster ratings as the Roseanne revival, it has still maintained a respectable viewership. The show has managed to carve out its own niche, attracting fans who are invested in the lives of the Conner family.
FAQ 7: What were the main themes explored in the Roseanne revival?
The Roseanne revival tackled several contemporary issues, including political polarization, economic hardship, healthcare challenges, and the opioid crisis. It aimed to reflect the realities faced by many working-class families in America today.
FAQ 8: How did the revival address Dan’s death in the original finale?
The revival retconned Dan’s death from the original finale. In the first episode, it was revealed that Dan had survived his heart attack, effectively erasing the tragic ending of the initial series. This decision allowed John Goodman to reprise his role and maintain the dynamic between Dan and Roseanne.
FAQ 9: Was there any discussion of a reunion special featuring the original cast before the revival?
Yes, there had been discussions about a potential Roseanne reunion special for years before the revival finally materialized. However, various factors, including scheduling conflicts and creative differences, prevented the project from moving forward until 2018.
FAQ 10: What made Roseanne so relatable to American audiences?
Roseanne resonated with audiences because of its realistic and unglamorized portrayal of working-class life. The show didn’t shy away from depicting financial struggles, family conflicts, and everyday challenges. The characters were flawed and relatable, making them feel like real people rather than idealized sitcom figures.
FAQ 11: Beyond the controversy, what is Roseanne‘s lasting legacy?
Despite the controversies surrounding its various endings, Roseanne remains a landmark sitcom. It broke ground in its depiction of a working-class family, addressing social issues often ignored by mainstream television. The show also launched the careers of several talented actors and writers, solidifying its place in television history. It fostered open discussion about poverty, parenting, gender equality, and body image, challenging societal norms.
FAQ 12: Are there any current plans for further Roseanne or The Conners continuations or revivals?
As of the present date, there are no publicly announced plans for further continuations or revivals of either Roseanne or The Conners. While the entertainment industry is ever-evolving, the current focus remains on The Conners and its established storylines. Future revivals depend on numerous factors, including the availability of cast members and the overall interest from networks and streaming services.