The beloved sitcom The Conners aired its series finale on April 23, 2025, marking the end of an era that spanned over three decades. This finale, which aired on ABC and is now available for streaming on Hulu, was filled with heartfelt moments as the Conner family bid farewell to both each other and their matriarch, Roseanne Conner, played by Roseanne Barr.
Executive producers Bruce Helford, Dave Caplan, and Bruce Rasmussen shared insights into the emotional finale, which was aptly titled "The Truck Stops Here," serving as a bookend to the series' first episode titled "Keep on Truckin'." This title choice reflects the show's journey and the struggles faced by the Conner family. In a poignant twist, the finale concluded with Dan Conner (John Goodman) directly addressing the audience, saying "Good night" while holding back tears, a moment that was not scripted but felt genuine to the cast and crew.
Throughout its run, The Conners tackled significant issues, including the opioid crisis that ultimately claimed Roseanne's life in the storyline. The final season followed Dan and Jackie (Laurie Metcalf) as they worked to sue the opioid company responsible for Roseanne's accidental overdose. In a bittersweet resolution, the family received a settlement check for $700, a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by many in the working class.
While the finale was a tribute to Roseanne, it also showcased the growth of the remaining characters. Darlene (Sara Gilbert) repaired her relationship with Ben (Jay R. Ferguson), Becky (Lecy Goranson) maintained her sobriety and found a job, and Mark (Ames McNamara) opted to pursue a career without attending college. These arcs reflected the show's commitment to portraying realistic outcomes for its characters, avoiding clichéd happy endings.
"We wanted to stay true to what's really happening in the legal system," Helford explained. "It's about family resilience, and shows that money does not create happiness. That comes from the group." This sentiment resonated throughout the finale, culminating in a family gathering at Roseanne's grave, where they shared their sorrow and love in a touching farewell.
The absence of Roseanne Barr was felt deeply, yet the show honored her legacy through the characters' reflections and memories. "We wanted to honor something that she really gave birth to and cared for," Helford noted. The emotional farewell at the grave site highlighted the family's bond, as they each said their goodbyes, culminating in Dan's heartfelt message to the camera.
As the family gathered for a pizza party using the meager settlement, the scene was a reminder of their enduring connection. Dan's toast encapsulated the show's spirit: "No matter how much crap life throws at us, all we got to do is look around. Because if we hang together, nothing can stop us." This moment of unity and resilience was a fitting conclusion to their story.
Viewers were treated to a nostalgic montage of vintage clips from Roseanne, celebrating the show's rich history, even as Barr's absence was notable. The finale's emotional weight was amplified by the genuine feelings expressed by the cast, as they broke the fourth wall to connect with the audience. "I don’t think I’ve ever seen it before on TV, where the characters actually break the fourth wall, and you see the actual emotion of what [the actors are] going through," said executive producer Bruce Rasmussen.
The decision to have John Goodman address the audience was a collaborative effort, with Goodman expressing a desire to acknowledge the audience's role in the show's success. "We are so much connected to the audience; we’re not just entertainment. It’s been a family for 37 years," Caplan remarked, reflecting on the bond forged between the cast and viewers over the years.
As the series concluded, there was no immediate talk of a spinoff, as the producers wished to honor the legacy of The Conners and give fans a moment to celebrate the show's history. "We really want this moment to be a genuine celebration of the scope of 37 years of keeping this family alive, and just honoring that legacy right now," Rasmussen stated.
Despite the finality of the series, the producers left the door open for future possibilities. "We never say the show is dead. We literally brought people back from the dead to do the show," Rasmussen joked, referencing the show's history of twists and turns.
In reflecting on the series, Helford emphasized the importance of authenticity in storytelling. "Once you’ve seen the mountaintop on a show like Roseanne, then you really have to continue that honesty. It makes us feel great to honor the nobility of the working class. We all come from that, and that is something sorely lacking on TV." This commitment to real-life struggles and triumphs has been a hallmark of the show, resonating with audiences across generations.
As fans bid farewell to the Conner family, they are left with a sense of closure, knowing that while the show has ended, the characters will continue to live on in the hearts of viewers. The legacy of The Conners is one of resilience, love, and the enduring bonds of family, reminding us all that no matter the challenges faced, togetherness is the key to overcoming adversity.
