ABC’s The Conners has officially confirmed its strategy for moving forward after the loss of its original star, Roseanne Barr. The series emerged from the ashes of the Roseanne revival, which ended suddenly when Barr was dismissed from the show. This unexpected turn of events led to a storyline where Roseanne tragically passes away due to an opioid overdose, leaving her family—Dan, their children, and the extended clan—to grapple with her abrupt departure. Despite these challenges, the show has adapted and thrived.
The Conners family has navigated the aftermath of Roseanne’s death with resilience. Dan has since remarried and embraced retirement, while Jackie has shifted the management of The Lunch Box to Harris. Darlene and Becky are managing to cope as well, and although DJ has been less involved in the plot after being written out before season 5, it’s implied that he is also faring well. Speculation around who might fill the significant gap left by Roseanne’s character has lingered, and while an official replacement hasn’t been designated, recent promotional materials seem to suggest a clear direction.
The Conners Season 7 Retrospective: Jackie Becomes the Family’s New Maternal Figure
Jackie Takes on the Role of Mother Figure
In a poignant retrospective trailer (available on ABC), the enduring legacy of Roseanne is celebrated alongside a journey reflecting the evolution of The Conners. This new direction prominently features Dan, Jackie, and Becky, highlighting their most memorable moments throughout the series. The until-now sidelined DJ is notably absent, emphasizing the greater focus on Jackie as the family has reoriented after the loss of Roseanne.
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This trailer serves as a testament to the significant role Jackie, portrayed by Laurie Metcalf, has played in the series. Although she isn’t a blood member of the Conner family—being Roseanne’s sister and Dan’s sister-in-law—her influence in raising the children is profound and longstanding.
Jackie: The Ideal Stand-in for Roseanne in The Conners
Jackie Mirrors Her Sister’s Spirit
Throughout the series’ run, Jackie has been a nurturing presence for Becky, Darlene, and DJ. After Roseanne’s unexpected passing, her role became even more critical. Early episodes of The Conners highlighted Jackie grappling with her grief while simultaneously stepping up as a stabilizing force for Dan and the children during a tumultuous period. From a narrative perspective, it makes sense for Jackie to transition into the role of a maternal figure. With John Goodman as Dan, Metcalf stands out as one of the show’s most recognizable stars.
Jackie’s character also embodies many traits reminiscent of Roseanne—her intensity and sharp wit are complemented by a deep affection for her family. While Jackie may display a more carefree approach than her sister, her evolution over the years showcases a wisdom that balances her impulsive tendencies. Ultimately, The Conners’ creators could not have chosen a more fitting character to step into Roseanne’s shoes.
Source: The Conners/YouTube