Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for The Conners season 7, episode 1, “It’s Gonna Be A Great Day.”
Despite some predictions regarding Jackie’s arc in The Conners season 7, I find myself hoping for a twist that keeps the storyline engaging, particularly for Darlene’s son, Mark. With a diverse cast that can be challenging to track, even the creators sometimes struggle to adequately spotlight every character. For instance, Mark was notably absent in the opening episodes of season 6, similarly, his sister Harris was missing from the handover in season 7, episode 1, “It’s Gonna Be A Great Day.”
Fortunately, Mark made a return in “It’s Gonna Be A Great Day,” and his role directly tackles his intense narrative from season 6. Previously, following a troubling spiral involving impulsive medication usage to enhance his academic performance, Mark became fixated on getting into a distinguished college. This quest for higher education is coming at a significant cost, pushing him towards questionable financial decisions.
Jackie’s Return to the Force May Uncover Mark’s Underhanded Work
Jackie has Confronted Mark Over His Hacker Job
Following a brief and unsuccessful stint as a repo man during season 6, Mark delved into a more lucrative but clandestine role as an email hacker, a fact concealed from his family. In “It’s Gonna Be A Great Day,” Jackie discovers Mark’s hefty paychecks, which contradict the earning potential typical for high school graduates, even in tech. Her suspicions are confirmed when she finds a note from one of his colleagues praising his hacking skills, prompting a confrontation.
Jackie’s history as a police officer from Roseanne is likely to create further complications in Mark’s storyline as the season unfolds. She offered Mark an opportunity to exit the dubious hacking enterprise, but he declined, drawn by the financial allure. Moreover, a discussion with a dismissive younger officer about rejoining the police force after retirement stokes her resolve to prove herself, which will likely impact Mark’s situation negatively.
| The Conners Cast Member | Character |
|---|---|
| John Goodman | Dan Conner |
| Laurie Metcalf | Jackie Harris-Goldufski |
| Sara Gilbert | Darlene Conner-Olinsky |
| Lecy Goranson | Becky Conner-Healy |
| Katey Sagal | Louise Conner |
| Emma Kenney | Harris Conner-Healy |
| Ames McNamara | Mark Conner-Healy |
Jackie’s re-entry into law enforcement appears poised to unveil Mark’s illicit hacking activities. She has a dual motivation: not only would she want to impress her peers by revealing overlooked evidence, but she also aims to protect Mark from the repercussions of his actions. The risk of a police investigation into his work hangs ominously over him.
A Family Fallout: Jackie’s Role in Mark’s Potential Downfall
Mark’s Outcome Could Be Less Dire in Jackie’s Hands
Jackie’s policing background adds a layer of lightness to what could be a dark tale, especially as she interacts with other new characters introduced in season 7. However, if Mark’s illegal activities come to light, the tone may shift dramatically. His previous role as part of an email scam suggests that should he be discovered, he’s at risk of severe legal consequences.
Mark’s stubbornness and refusal to heed Jackie’s cautionary advice spell trouble for him. While Jackie could offer protection from police scrutiny by tipping him off about a potential raid, her responsibility to uphold the law may complicate her ability to directly aid him when the time comes to act.
The Impact of Jackie & Mark’s Arc on the Conclusion of The Conners
Season 7 Episode 1 Poised for a Somber Resolution for Roseanne’s Spinoff
The early reference to Roseanne’s passing in season 7 might set the stage for a tragic intersection of Mark and Jackie’s narratives. In the event the family successfully wins a lawsuit against the pharmaceutical company for wrongful death, the financial resources could quickly vanish into Mark’s legal entanglements if he faces arrest.
Such a scenario could result in the settlement being consumed by attorney fees, leaving the Conner family further in financial despair than before—an emotionally charged conclusion befitting The Conners season 7, while intricately linking to the overarching tragedy of Roseanne’s story.
Would you like to keep up with primetime TV insights? Sign up for our weekly Network TV newsletter to gain exclusive access and updates from your favorite shows.
SIGN UP NOW!