Sara Gilbert recently opened up about the final season of The Conners, the beloved sitcom that has tackled real-world issues over its seven-season run. In a segment aired on March 31, 2025, Gilbert, who has both produced and starred in the show, reflected on the journey of bringing the series to its conclusion.
As the series gears up for its last episodes, Gilbert emphasized the importance of addressing contemporary societal challenges through the lens of comedy. She noted, "We’ve always tried to keep it real and relatable, touching on issues that matter to our audience." This commitment to authenticity has been a hallmark of the series since it began, especially following the tragic death of the character Roseanne, played by Roseanne Barr, which dramatically shifted the show's tone and direction.
The seventh season kicked off with the premiere episode titled "It's Gonna Be A Great Day," which aired on the same day as Gilbert's interview. The episode dove straight into the lives of the Conner family, showcasing various storylines while also highlighting the absence of a key character. Notably, Emma Kenney, who plays Harris, Darlene's daughter, was missing from the premiere, raising questions among fans about her character's arc.
In the premiere, Jackie, played by Laurie Metcalf, embarks on a new storyline as she considers rejoining the police force. This decision unfolds in a conversation with Zoe Perry's character, showcasing the show's ability to weave in new narratives while still respecting established character histories. Meanwhile, Mark, Jackie’s nephew, grapples with ethical dilemmas as he works for email scammers to fund his college tuition, a plot twist that reflects the challenges faced by many young adults today.
However, the absence of Harris has sparked discussion among viewers. In the previous season, she had taken over the management of Jackie’s restaurant, The Lanford Lunchbox, a significant development that was left unexplored in the premiere. Fans were left wondering about her progress in managing the restaurant, especially considering the struggles she faced in season six, including dealing with her ADHD diagnosis and the pressures of running a business.
Gilbert's reflections on the series also touched on the challenges of balancing a large ensemble cast. With so many characters to develop, the pacing of storylines can sometimes feel rushed. The premiere episode exemplified this, as it juggled multiple plots without adequately addressing Harris's situation, which had been a focus in prior episodes. As Gilbert explained, "With a big cast, it’s a challenge to give everyone their moment, but we’ve always tried to ensure that each character’s story is meaningful." This balancing act is especially crucial in the final season, where the stakes are higher and the need for resolution is palpable.
As the season progresses, there are indications that Harris will return to the forefront of the narrative. The titles of upcoming episodes, such as “Applications, Accusations and a Man-Bag” and “Danny Boy, the Interview, the New Hire, and the Hanging Chad,” suggest that her role in managing the restaurant will be revisited, potentially intertwining with Mark's storyline as he navigates his own challenges.
Fans are eager to see how the show will wrap up Harris's journey, especially given her previous struggles with the restaurant and her complex relationship with her family. Gilbert expressed confidence that the writers are committed to providing satisfying conclusions for all characters, stating, "We want to honor the journey of each character and give them the closure they deserve." With only six episodes in this final season, the pressure is on to deliver a compelling and cohesive narrative that resonates with long-time viewers.
The Conners has always been more than just a sitcom; it has served as a cultural touchstone for many families, addressing issues like addiction, economic hardship, and the complexities of modern life. As the series heads toward its conclusion, Gilbert's insights remind fans of the importance of storytelling that reflects reality while still providing moments of levity and hope.
As the final season unfolds, viewers can expect to see more character development and resolution, particularly for Harris and her journey at The Lanford Lunchbox. The show’s commitment to exploring real-life issues through humor has resonated with audiences, and as it wraps up, there is a shared sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the stories told over the years.
In a landscape where sitcoms often shy away from heavy topics, The Conners has carved out a niche that blends humor with heartfelt storytelling. Gilbert's reflections on the series and its journey serve as a reminder of the impact that television can have in addressing societal issues, making audiences laugh while also encouraging them to think critically about the world around them.
