Since its debut, The Conners has lived under the shadow of its predecessor, Roseanne, but one episode from season 2 has risen above the rest, earning its place as the series’ finest moment. Titled “Slappy Holidays,” this Thanksgiving-themed outing managed to deliver a perfect mix of heartfelt drama, nostalgic callbacks, and the classic humor fans loved in the original show.
Here’s why “Slappy Holidays” became a fan-favorite and why it perfectly encapsulates the best of The Conners.
The Legacy of Roseanne and the Birth of The Conners
After Roseanne ran from 1988 to 1997, the series returned in 2017 for a critically acclaimed revival. However, controversy struck when star Roseanne Barr was fired following a series of racist tweets. The writers made the unprecedented decision to kill off the title character, rebranding the series as The Conners.
Though the spinoff faced a rocky start, The Conners found its footing, with its large ensemble cast continuing the Conner family’s story. By season 2, the show had regained its emotional depth and humor, proving it could thrive without its original star.
“Slappy Holidays”: A Family Thanksgiving Like No Other
According to IMDb, season 2, episode 7, “Slappy Holidays,” is The Conners’ highest-rated episode, earning an impressive 8.0 rating. The episode’s brilliance lies in its ability to balance emotional stakes with laugh-out-loud moments, a hallmark of the original Roseanne.
The plot centers around a heated Thanksgiving gathering where old wounds resurface. Jackie and Becky want to reopen the family’s beloved restaurant, the Lanford Lunchbox, after discovering Roseanne’s mother, Bev, still owns the deed. However, Darlene opposes the idea, fearing it’s a reckless financial gamble.
The tension between Darlene, Jackie, and Becky drives the episode, leading to one of the most dramatic confrontations in the series. Jackie’s anger boils over when Darlene accuses her of being a burden on Roseanne, culminating in Jackie slapping Darlene—a shocking but emotionally charged moment that recalls the best of Roseanne’s most intense family dramas.
Roseanne’s Legacy Looms Large
Even though Roseanne’s character is gone, her presence is deeply felt in “Slappy Holidays.” The arguments over the Lunchbox are rooted in memories of her influence, and the family’s conflicts reflect the same dynamics that made the original series so compelling.
Darlene’s critique of Jackie as a constant source of stress for Roseanne feels raw and honest, while Jackie’s fiery defense of herself is equally justified. Neither character is entirely wrong, making their clash feel painfully real. Adding to the chaos is Jackie’s unresolved anger toward Dan’s new girlfriend, Louise, which heightens the familial tension.
Balancing Drama with Comedy
Despite its heavy moments, “Slappy Holidays” doesn’t lose its comedic charm. The episode expertly weaves in humor, reminding viewers why they fell in love with the Conners in the first place. While Jackie and Darlene’s fight takes center stage, the family still shares moments of warmth and hilarity, capturing the bittersweet reality of Thanksgiving gatherings.
The episode ends on a hopeful note, with the Conners reaffirming their love and commitment to one another, no matter how messy their lives may be.
Why “Slappy Holidays” Resonates
This Thanksgiving episode stands out because it perfectly encapsulates the storytelling strengths of The Conners: authentic family dynamics, emotional depth, and a willingness to tackle harsh realities head-on.
Jackie’s slap is one of the spinoff’s most intense scenes, rivaling the heaviest moments from Roseanne’s classic seasons. Yet the resolution feels earned, offering a glimmer of hope amid the chaos.
A Celebration of What Makes The Conners Great
With season 7 now underway, “Slappy Holidays” remains a testament to the show’s ability to honor Roseanne’s legacy while standing on its own. By blending humor with heartfelt drama, the episode showcases the Conner family at their most chaotic—and their most lovable.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Roseanne or a newcomer to The Conners, “Slappy Holidays” is an episode that captures the spirit of this iconic TV family: messy, flawed, but always full of love.
