Few TV shows boast a legacy as rich and resilient as The Conners. What began 35 years ago with Roseanne has evolved into one of television’s most enduring narratives. Now, ABC’s The Conners has hit its 100th episode—a milestone few believed possible after its tumultuous start.
From Triumph to Turmoil: The Evolution of a Sitcom Icon
The Conner family first entered our lives on October 18, 1988, with the debut of Roseanne. Centered on a working-class family navigating life’s endless hurdles, the show quickly became a cultural juggernaut, dethroning The Cosby Show to become America’s number one show. The original series ran for nine seasons, closing in 1997.
Fast forward to 2018, when the Roseanne revival roared back onto screens with record-breaking ratings. But the triumph was short-lived. Just months later, the show was abruptly canceled following a controversial tweet by its namesake, Roseanne Barr. The Conners’ story seemed to have ended for good.
Reinventing the Conners
In what seemed like an impossible feat, the production team salvaged the series by removing its polarizing star and pivoting to a new iteration: The Conners. Premiering exactly 30 years after the original show’s debut, The Conners took a bold risk. It explored the family’s grief over Roseanne’s off-screen death, with Sara Gilbert’s Darlene stepping into the central role.
“It was daunting,” admits executive producer Dave Caplan. “We had to reinvent the show while staying true to its heart. Thankfully, the viewers stayed with us.”
A Reflection of Real America
Over six seasons, The Conners has tackled weighty topics like gender identity, healthcare, addiction, and gun control with an authenticity that resonates deeply. “We don’t force the issues; they emerge naturally from the characters’ lives,” says Caplan.
The show’s commitment to raw, emotional storytelling is epitomized in episodes like Season 4’s “Triggered,” penned by Lecy Goranson, which delves into gun control, and the live episode “Live From Lanford,” set during the 2020 Democratic primary.
But it’s not all hardship. The Conners have had their share of triumphs, from Dan finding love again with Katey Sagal’s Louise to light-hearted moments featuring a slew of A-list guest stars, including Matthew Broderick, Whoopi Goldberg, and Nick Offerman.
Looking Back—and Ahead
The 100th episode, Smash and Grab and Happy Death Day, nods to the past while exploring fresh dynamics. From an old family photo sparking existential questions to Dan and Jackie confronting unresolved tensions, the milestone episode encapsulates the humor and heart that define The Conners.
Despite uncertainty about the show’s future, the producers are optimistic. “There are still so many stories to tell,” says executive producer Bruce Rasmussen. Caplan agrees: “The Conners are a mirror of America. As long as there are struggles and triumphs to explore, this family’s journey isn’t over.”
With its rich history, fearless storytelling, and an unflinching look at life’s messy realities, The Conners has cemented its place as a television classic. Whether or not the show continues, its legacy will endure, much like the resilient family at its center.
