The Conners, the beloved spinoff of the iconic sitcom Roseanne, is returning for its seventh and final season, which premiered on March 26, 2025. This farewell season consists of just six episodes, aiming to wrap up major storylines and provide a satisfying conclusion to the series that has been a staple of American television for over three decades.
As fans of the show are aware, the final season revolves around the aftermath of Roseanne Conner's death, a pivotal event that has shaped the narrative of The Conners since its inception. The series originally returned in 2018 with a mission to reclaim its legacy and address the opioid crisis that has disproportionately affected working-class families, a theme that continues to resonate deeply in this concluding chapter.
In the premiere episode, titled "It's Gonna Be A Great Day," Darlene Conner, played by Sara Gilbert, celebrates a recent promotion at work, though she quickly finds that balancing her career with her relationship with Ben (Jay R. Ferguson) poses significant challenges. Meanwhile, Jackie Harris, portrayed by Laurie Metcalf, confronts her sister's past as she uncovers a potential opportunity to sue the pharmaceutical company responsible for Roseanne's addiction. This development leads to an intense family debate, blending humor with heartfelt moments.
One of the highlights of the premiere is the guest appearance of Zoe Perry, Metcalf's real-life daughter, who plays a cop that gives Jackie a hard time about her desire to rejoin the police force. This mother-daughter duo adds an extra layer of charm to the episode, delighting fans who have followed their careers.
Despite the absence of some key characters, such as Johnny Galecki's David Healy, the core Conner family remains intact, with John Goodman reprising his role as Dan Conner, the steadfast patriarch. Goodman, who has been a central figure in the franchise since its original run, continues to navigate the complexities of family life following the death of his wife. As he strives to keep the family together, Dan's character faces the challenge of supporting his now-adult children while dealing with the grief of losing Roseanne.
According to executive producer Bruce Helford, the show aims to honor the legacy of both the original Roseanne series and its spinoff, while also tackling contemporary issues. "The Supreme Court handed us a storyline when they took away the immunity from all the opioid companies," Helford noted. "That storyline ticked a lot of boxes for us, and one of them was that the little guy finally gets some justice. We’ll see how that gets resolved in the last episode." This legal battle is not just a plot device; it reflects the real struggles many families face in the wake of addiction.
As the season unfolds, viewers can expect to see new characters introduced, including Chad, played by Seth Green, who may become a potential love interest for Darlene, complicating her already tumultuous relationship with Ben. The introduction of new dynamics promises to keep the narrative fresh and engaging as the series nears its conclusion.
Another character to watch is Jackie, who is determined to reclaim her former position in the police force. The series has long explored themes of resilience and determination, and Jackie's journey is no exception. Her struggles with her past and her desire to make a difference in her community will be central to her character arc this season.
As The Conners prepares to say goodbye, fans are left wondering if there might be any surprises in store, such as a potential return of Roseanne Barr in some form. Helford has kept the door open for possibilities, stating, "We aren’t bringing anybody back from the dead," but leaving room for speculation about how the show might honor its roots.
In addition to the emotional storylines, the production team has emphasized the importance of crafting a farewell that feels authentic and meaningful. Helford explained, "We wanted this to be something special. So it’s six episodes that are all linked very carefully." This approach aims to provide a cohesive narrative that resonates with long-time fans while also addressing the complexities of the characters' lives.
The Conners has always been more than just a sitcom; it has served as a reflection of American life, tackling issues such as class struggles, addiction, and family dynamics with humor and heart. As the series enters its final chapter, it continues to resonate with audiences, drawing on the rich history of its characters while also engaging with current social issues.
As viewers tune in for the final six episodes, they can expect a blend of laughter, tears, and perhaps a few surprises as the Conner family navigates their way through grief, love, and the challenges of modern life. The Conners promises to deliver a heartfelt goodbye that honors its legacy and the enduring spirit of its characters.
With the premiere episode now available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and Fubo, fans are eager to see how the Conner family will close this chapter of their story. The Conners has made a lasting impact on television history, and as it bids farewell, it leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by its audience for years to come.
