After seven seasons, the beloved sitcom The Conners is set to take its final bow on April 23, 2025, concluding a journey that began with its predecessor, Roseanne, in 1988. This spin-off, which focused on the Conner family after the tragic death of matriarch Roseanne, has been a staple of American television, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of a working-class family in a relatable and humorous manner.
The series finale, which airs at 8/7c on ABC, promises to deliver an emotional conclusion as Dan Conner (John Goodman) faces a deposition in a lawsuit against a pharmaceutical company blamed for Roseanne's opioid overdose. This poignant storyline encapsulates the series' ongoing themes of family resilience and social issues, a hallmark of both Roseanne and The Conners.
Executive producers Bruce Helford and Dave Caplan have expressed their regrets about certain character absences in the finale. Helford lamented, "Martin Mull passed before we had a chance to [bring back Leon]," indicating that the late actor's character was considered for a return. Mull, who played Leon, was a fan favorite, and his absence will be felt. The producers also acknowledged their desire to bring back Johnny Galecki as David, but respected his decision not to return after Season 2.
Another notable absence will be George Clooney, who played Booker Brooks in the original Roseanne. Helford revealed that Clooney was approached multiple times to reprise his role but declined, stating, "You know that I would, but if I do it for you guys, I gotta do it for everybody I’ve ever worked with who has a TV show because it would be wrong for me not to." This decision speaks to Clooney's respect for his fellow actors and the industry as a whole.
Fans have also expressed their disappointment over the absence of D.J. Conner (Michael Fishman), who was written out of the show after four seasons. Fishman, who first appeared as D.J. at the age of six in the original series, announced in August 2022 that he would not return for Season 5. He stated, "It has been my honor to play D.J. Conner. It's every actor’s dream to be a series regular, especially on a groundbreaking show, where we tackle significant topics." Although Helford mentioned that there was a chance D.J. could return, it was confirmed in March 2025 that he would not appear in the final season.
Despite the absence of certain characters, the finale promises to encapsulate the spirit of the show. The final season has highlighted the evolution of Jackie Harris (Laurie Metcalf), who has stepped into a more prominent role as the emotional backbone of the family. After Roseanne's death, Jackie has provided support to her nieces, Becky (Lecy Goranson) and Darlene (Sara Gilbert), as they navigate adulthood and motherhood. Her character has become a powerful female figure, filling the void left by Roseanne while maintaining her own identity.
Jackie's relationship with Dan has also evolved throughout the series. Initially marked by tension, their bond has deepened as they face the challenges of raising a family without Roseanne. Their chemistry has been a focal point of the series, with Metcalf and Goodman delivering performances that resonate with viewers. Jackie’s growth as a character has made her an integral part of the family dynamic, and her humor and strength have endeared her to fans.
As the series wraps up, viewers can expect to see how the characters confront their past and look towards the future. The promo for the final season confirmed that Jackie will take on more responsibilities, including preparing for a physical to rejoin the Lanford police force. This subplot reflects the show's commitment to addressing real-life issues while providing comedic relief.
In addition to the character arcs, the finale will also touch on the broader themes of family, loss, and resilience that have defined The Conners. The series has tackled significant societal issues, from economic struggles to the impact of addiction, all while maintaining a sense of humor and heart. The Conners have become a representation of the American family, navigating the ups and downs of life with grit and determination.
As viewers prepare to bid farewell to the Conner family, many are reflecting on the show's impact over the years. From its origins as a groundbreaking sitcom to its evolution into a poignant exploration of family life, The Conners has left an indelible mark on television history. Fans are hopeful that the finale will honor the legacy of both Roseanne and The Conners, providing a satisfying conclusion to the beloved characters they have grown to love.
In the end, whether it’s the absence of familiar faces or the emergence of new dynamics, the emotional weight of the series finale is sure to resonate with audiences. As Dan, Darlene, Becky, and Jackie navigate their final moments together, viewers will undoubtedly be reminded of the importance of family and the lasting bonds that tie them together.
The Conners may be saying goodbye, but the memories and lessons learned throughout its seven-season run will continue to live on in the hearts of its fans. As the clock ticks down to the series finale, anticipation builds for what promises to be a heartfelt farewell to a show that has been a significant part of many lives.
