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In the aftermath of Roseanne Barr’s controversial tweets that led to the sudden cancellation of ABC’s highly successful Roseanne revival, the network and its creative teams are grappling with a big question: What happens next? According to multiple reports, one possibility is a spin-off that would center on Sara Gilbert’s character, Darlene Conner. Not only would this plan allow ABC to preserve the livelihoods of many who worked on the show, but it could also give fans a way to remain connected to the Conner family—minus its once-beloved matriarch.
The Swift Cancellation
In late May, ABC abruptly ended Roseanne—a show that had returned with record-breaking ratings—after its star posted tweets widely condemned as racist. The decision was immediate and caught many by surprise. Within hours of Roseanne Barr’s social media activity, ABC issued an official statement announcing the end of the reboot, calling Barr’s comments “abhorrent, repugnant, and inconsistent with our values.”
The cancellation removed a financial powerhouse from ABC’s lineup and created uncertainty for hundreds of staff and crew members who relied on the show for employment. As the dust settled, rumors began circulating about whether the network would find a way to keep the Conner family alive on-screen—albeit without its namesake star.
Sara Gilbert’s Response
Sara Gilbert, who portrayed Darlene Conner in the original series and the recent reboot, was one of the first cast or crew members to speak out against Barr’s tweets. Gilbert took to social media to say, “Roseanne’s recent comments about Valerie Jarrett, and so much more, are abhorrent and do not reflect the beliefs of our cast and crew or anyone associated with our show.” She also conveyed her disappointment, stating how sad it was to see a show that had built a strong audience—and stood for certain principles—come crashing down due to one cast member’s words.
Gilbert’s immediate and public condemnation of Barr’s tweet demonstrated a deep concern for the people attacked by the comments and the ripple effect it created within the entertainment industry. The actress, who served as an executive producer for the revival, seemed genuinely heartbroken about the show’s abrupt end. Nevertheless, insiders say she remains dedicated to preserving the essence of what Roseanne stood for: portraying a working-class family with humor and realism.
Talks of a Spin-Off
Shortly after the cancellation, multiple outlets including The Hollywood Reporter and TMZ suggested that ABC executives were contemplating a new series focused on Gilbert’s character. Darlene Conner, the witty, sometimes sarcastic daughter of Roseanne and Dan Conner emerged as a fan favorite even during the show’s original run. In the reboot, Darlene’s storyline saw her grappling with single motherhood, job challenges, and a return to her childhood home—classic themes that resonate with many viewers.
By honing in on Darlene, ABC would effectively side-step the controversy linked to Barr. To move forward with such a project, however, the network must ensure that Roseanne Barr neither appears on-screen nor profits financially from the spin-off. This stipulation is crucial for ABC to protect its own brand and avoid being linked to Barr’s damaging comments. If a new Roseanne-inspired show moves forward, it could require the production company, Carsey-Werner, to negotiate a deal that excludes Barr from any revenue or creative input.
John Goodman’s Interest
Although Roseanne Barr is out of the picture, rumors have also surfaced that John Goodman, who played Dan Conner—Roseanne’s husband in the series—would potentially be on board if a spin-off materializes. Goodman, known for his versatile acting abilities, has maintained a relatively low profile since the controversy erupted. Nevertheless, TMZ reported that he is “very interested” in continuing the story of the Conner family.
If Goodman does sign on, it would be a significant boost to the hypothetical project. His presence would provide continuity for longtime fans of the Conners, as Dan was a pivotal character across the show’s run. A spin-off centered on Darlene but supported by Dan could maintain much of the original series’ charm. By preserving that familiar dynamic, ABC might hope to retain a significant portion of its large, loyal viewership.
Creative Challenges Ahead
Reviving Roseanne under a different name and focus presents a host of creative questions. How would the show handle Roseanne Conner’s absence? Would the plot explain her sudden disappearance, perhaps via an off-screen separation or death? Would other beloved characters like Jackie (played by Laurie Metcalf) and Becky (Lecy Goranson) return, and in what capacity? Metcalf, who had garnered glowing reviews for her portrayal of Jackie throughout the show’s history, remains a key component if the network wants to keep the ensemble’s spirit intact.
From a writer’s standpoint, the biggest challenge lies in preserving the original’s essence—representing relatable, working-class struggles—without the fiery comedic anchor that was Roseanne Conner. While some fans might celebrate a shift in focus away from Barr, the abrupt nature of her exit could leave narrative gaps. Producers would need a convincing backstory to explain why Roseanne Conner is no longer in the picture, all while forging ahead with fresh material that reflects timely social and economic issues.
The Show’s Rapid Erasure
Following the abrupt cancellation, the reboot’s presence on ABC’s website, Hulu, and other networks quickly vanished. Hulu pulled both the new season and older episodes from its streaming service. Similarly, TV Land, CMT, and Paramount Network all decided to remove reruns of the classic episodes from their lineups. However, streaming giant Amazon Prime has continued to make older episodes of Roseanne available, a move that some see as a neutral stance allowing fans a chance to watch the show in its original form.
ABC’s swift efforts to distance itself from Barr highlight the network’s zero-tolerance stance on public figures making racist or otherwise harmful statements. This decisive reaction reflects a broader shift in the entertainment world, where networks are increasingly forced to respond immediately to controversies, given the instant, viral nature of social media.
Saving Jobs and Rebuilding Trust
Perhaps the most compelling argument for launching a new spin-off is the opportunity to save the jobs of cast members, writers, and crew. Roseanne’s production directly and indirectly employed numerous individuals who found themselves abruptly out of work. A spin-off that re-engages many of those professionals could serve as a compassionate move on ABC’s part—demonstrating a desire to protect livelihoods, especially if the new series can maintain solid viewership.
However, the network also has to consider the risk of overshadowing the positive intentions with the ongoing association to the Roseanne brand. Can the Conner family story exist independently in the eyes of audiences, or will the controversy always overshadow the spin-off? These are serious questions ABC executives must weigh as they decide whether to proceed or let the dust settle and move forward with entirely new projects.
Audience Reception
Viewers have responded in a variety of ways to the show’s cancellation. Some praised ABC for taking a moral stand and swiftly pulling the plug. Others argued that the decision punishes an entire cast and crew for comments made by one individual. Regardless of which side fans find themselves on, many hope a new series can continue the legacy of exploring the trials of a financially strapped household in Middle America—issues not often tackled with realism on network television.
Sara Gilbert’s Darlene, in particular, has the potential to resonate with new audiences, including single parents who see their own experiences reflected on screen. The reboot had begun to dive into her struggles, showcasing the challenges of raising kids as a single mother while trying to rebuild her career. This storyline, if expanded, could make for a compelling spin-off.
Looking Ahead
For now, all eyes are on ABC as it convenes meetings and reviews proposals for how best to handle the Roseanne aftermath. Executives must walk a delicate tightrope: they need to demonstrate that they remain firmly opposed to hateful rhetoric while also acknowledging the many people—on both sides of the camera—whose futures hinged on Roseanne’s success. Industry insiders say an announcement could come soon, given the tight schedules for pilot season and the need to secure cast and crew before they move on to other projects.
If a Darlene-centered spin-off does become a reality, it will undoubtedly serve as a case study in how to salvage a show after a high-profile scandal. Whether fans will embrace such a series remains uncertain, but Gilbert and her fellow cast members appear ready to give it a shot. For now, the network’s next steps remain under wraps, leaving fans and insiders alike eagerly awaiting any official word on the Conner family’s future.
READ MORE: Hit sitcom ‘Roseanne’ to make a return on ABC
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