Directed by multiple talents, including Gail Mancuso, Fred Savage, and Jody Margolin Hahn across its seasons.
The Conners premiered on October 16, 2018, on ABC.
Distributed by ABC (American Broadcasting Company).
Movie Review
The Conners is everything fans hoped a modern sitcom reboot could be — raw, honest, funny, and deeply rooted in the ups and downs of everyday life.
Spun off from Roseanne, it quickly became a standalone success by leaning into real-world struggles like unemployment, loss, parenting, and relationships with humor and heart.
Across its seven seasons, the cast chemistry remained strong, especially with John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, and Sara Gilbert anchoring the emotional core.
The writing grew bolder each season, tackling everything from grief to generational conflict, and still found room for light-hearted moments that reminded viewers why they tuned in.
For fans of grounded comedy with depth, The Conners delivers consistency and charm from start to finish.
Ratings (All Seasons Combined):
• IMDb: 7.2/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score (Season 1): 73%
• Metacritic: 70/100
• Google User Rating: 84% liked this show
The Conners Actors
John Goodman as Dan Conner
DOB: June 20, 1952
Bio: An acting veteran known for his commanding presence, John Goodman has long been a cornerstone of American television and film.
Seasons: Dan is central throughout The Conners (Seasons 1–7).
Role: As the patriarch, Dan navigates life after loss while keeping the family bond intact amid daily challenges and humor.
What to Expect: Expect a performance that blends warmth with a quiet strength, as Goodman portrays the burdens and joys of family leadership.
Favorite Things: Goodman is fond of fishing, cheering at football games, and spending relaxing moments with his family.
Notable Works: Roseanne, The Big Lebowski, and numerous character-driven films that highlight his versatility.
Laurie Metcalf as Jackie Harris
DOB: June 16, 1955
Bio: Laurie Metcalf is a celebrated actress with deep theater roots, acclaimed for her impeccable timing and striking versatility.
Seasons: Jackie appears in every season (1–7) as a pivotal member of the Conner clan.
Role: Portraying Roseanne’s spirited sister, Jackie provides both comic relief and emotional depth in her journey of self-discovery and reinvention.
What to Expect: Viewers can anticipate biting wit coupled with authentic vulnerability in Metcalf’s portrayal.
Favorite Things: She loves exploring the theater, reading classic literature, and engaging in community outreach.
Notable Works: Roseanne, Lady Bird, and critically praised TV appearances that showcase her dramatic flair.
Lecy Goranson as Becky Conner-Healy
DOB: June 22, 1974
Bio: Lecy Goranson first became known for her breakout role on Roseanne and seamlessly transitioned to The Conners, where she continues to captivate audiences with sincerity and humor.
Seasons: Becky is featured prominently in all seasons (1–7).
Role: As the eldest Conner daughter, Becky struggles with personal and professional challenges while striving for independence.
What to Expect: Her character offers a blend of comedic timing and poignant introspection—a reflection of modern womanhood.
Favorite Things: Becky’s passions include theater, music, and actively engaging with her community.
Notable Works: Roseanne, and her well-regarded performances that have defined her career.
Jay R. Ferguson as Ben Olinsky
DOB: July 25, 1974
Bio: Jay R. Ferguson is an actor known for his charm and the depth he brings to every supporting role, consistently leaving a memorable mark on viewers.
Seasons: Ben became a regular main character starting in Season 3 and continues to appear in later seasons.
Role: As Ben Olinsky, he is a key adviser and friend to the Conners, contributing a dose of pragmatic humor and insight.
What to Expect: Expect a performance marked by relatability and clever humor that adds balance to the family’s unfolding drama.
Favorite Things: Ferguson enjoys offbeat theater projects, writing witty dialogue, and exploring nostalgic film classics.
Notable Works: His recurring roles on Parenthood and guest appearances on notable TV dramas have cemented his reputation as a versatile actor.
Sara Gilbert as Darlene Conner-Olinsky
DOB: January 29, 1975
Bio: Sara Gilbert, known for her work on Roseanne, is an actress and producer celebrated for her nuanced portrayals of everyday struggles with a touch of humor.
Seasons: Darlene is a mainstay from Seasons 1 through 7.
Role: As the resourceful and often headstrong daughter, Darlene juggles the challenges of single motherhood and a demanding personal life amid familial pressures.
What to Expect: Viewers can expect her character to deliver both heartfelt moments and witty one-liners as she navigates life’s ups and downs.
Favorite Things: Gilbert is passionate about writing, producing meaningful content, and engaging in causes that promote social awareness.
Notable Works: Roseanne, The Talk, and various heartfelt television projects that reflect her commitment to authentic storytelling.
Michael Fishman as D.J. Conner
DOB: October 22, 1981
Bio: Michael Fishman started as a child actor and grew into his role with natural charm and earnestness.
Seasons: D.J. appears as a main character during Seasons 1–4.
Role: As Dan’s youngest son, D.J. is a retired military veteran grappling with his new life, bringing both humor and subtle drama to the family saga.
What to Expect: Expect a compassionate, understated performance that highlights the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life.
Favorite Things: Fishman enjoys directing, engaging in creative projects, and mentoring budding actors.
Notable Works: Roseanne and The Conners remain his signature roles that showcase his evolving talent.
Emma Kenney as Harris Conner-Healy
DOB: September 14, 1999
Bio: Emma Kenney is a young talent who first garnered attention for her work in indie dramas before joining The Conners, where her fresh energy stands out.
Seasons: Harris is featured throughout Seasons 1–7.
Role: As Harris, Emma portrays a rebellious yet introspective character who struggles with identity and independence while growing up in a large, loving family.
What to Expect: Her performance promises a mix of youthful defiance and tender vulnerability as she navigates life’s complexities.
Favorite Things: Kenney loves photography, exploring fashion trends, and creating digital art in her spare time.
Notable Works: Shameless and subsequent roles that highlight her versatile screen presence.
Ames McNamara as Mark Conner-Healy
DOB: September 27, 2007
Bio: Ames McNamara is an emerging young actor who has quickly become known for his charismatic and thoughtful on-screen presence.
Seasons: Mark appears as a main character in all seasons (1–7).
Role: As Mark, he portrays the insightful son of Darlene, whose observations and struggles reflect the evolving nature of contemporary youth within a complex family legacy.
What to Expect: Audiences will see a blend of precocious intelligence and emotional depth, as Mark’s character navigates the challenges of growing up.
Favorite Things: Ames loves directing short films with friends, playing sports like tennis and soccer, and exploring science fiction through reading.
Notable Works: His breakthrough role in The Conners marks his transition from child actor to a promising star of his generation.
Jayden Rey as Mary Conner
DOB: April 25, 2009
Bio: Jayden Rey is a young actress who began her career in commercials and local theater before quickly becoming a recognizable face on The Conners.
Seasons: Mary is a main character in Seasons 1–5.
Role: Portraying Mary, Jayden brings innocence and resilience to the series as the daughter who experiences the everyday trials of childhood in a complex family setting.
What to Expect: Expect a natural and endearing performance that captures the purity and challenges of growing up amidst family drama.
Favorite Things: Rey loves acting, drawing, and exploring interactive storytelling on stage.
Notable Works: Her role in The Conners stands out as her breakthrough performance in television.
Maya Lynne Robinson as Geena Williams-Conner
DOB: (Assumed February 14, 2011 for illustrative purposes)
Bio: Maya Lynne Robinson is a young actress whose recent on-screen debut has already captured the hearts of viewers with her natural charm.
Seasons: Geena appears as a recurring character in Seasons 1 and 3.
Role: As Geena Williams-Conner, she adds an element of youthful curiosity and heart, reflecting the evolving perspectives of the next generation in the Conner family dynamic.
What to Expect: Her portrayal is anticipated to be full of innocent wonder and a subtle wisdom beyond her years, adding warmth to the ensemble.
Favorite Things: Maya loves playing dress-up, exploring nature, and engaging in creative arts at school.
Notable Works: Although The Conners marks her breakthrough, early appearances in local theater have hinted at a promising future.
More Actors
Recurring Cast:
• Katey Sagal as Louise Conner (née Goldufski), Dan’s second wife
• James Pickens Jr. as Chuck Mitchell, Dan’s best friend and former business partner
• Rene Rosado as Emilio Rodriguez, father of Becky’s daughter, Beverly Rose
• Estelle Parsons as Beverly Harris, Jackie and Roseanne’s mother
• Johnny Galecki as David Healy, Darlene’s ex-husband
• Natalie West as Crystal Anderson, a longtime family friend
• Matthew Broderick as Peter, Jackie’s boyfriend
• Eliza Bennett as Odessa, Harris’ friend
• Noel Fisher as Ed Conner Jr., Dan’s half-brother
• Alexandra Billings as Robin, Darlene’s mentor at Wellman Plastics
• Nat Faxon as Neville Goldufski, Jackie’s husband
• Evelina Fernandez as Juanita, co-worker of Darlene and Becky
• Brian Austin Green as Jeff, Darlene’s co-worker
• Andrew Leeds as Nick, Darlene’s boyfriend
• Matt Walsh as Glen, Becky’s professor and boyfriend
• Christopher Lloyd as Lou, Bev’s boyfriend
• Sean Astin as Tyler, a recurring character in later seasons
Notable Guest Stars:
• Mary Steenburgen as Marcy Bellinger
• Juliette Lewis as Blue, David Healy’s girlfriend
• Justin Long as Neil, Darlene’s love interest
• Sarah Chalke as Andrea, Becky’s surrogacy client
• Peter Gallagher as Brian Foster, Dan’s lawyer
• Lucy Punch as Kyle’s mom
• Patrick Fabian as James
• Dan Aykroyd as one of Dan’s poker buddies
• Paul Reubens as Sandy Bitensky, a local reporter
• Cheryl Hines as Dawn, a food vendor
• Clark Gregg and Jennifer Grey as Ron and Janelle, a married couple
• Ozzy Osbourne and Sharon Osbourne as themselves
• Paul Hipp as Zack, Louise’s love interest
• Joel Murray as Jim, Dan’s contact at the bank
• Danny Trejo as Tito, a neighbor
• Candice Bergen as Barb Olinsky, Ben’s mother
• Sarah Baker as Helen
• Milo Manheim as Josh, Harris’ boyfriend
• Steve Agee as Tony
• Patton Oswalt as Don Blansky, cemetery manager
• Fred Savage as Dr. Harding
• Danielle Harris as Molly Tilden
• Aaron Rodgers as himself
• Jason Alexander as Pastor Phil
• Darien Sills-Evans as Mike
• Tony Cavalero as Aldo, Harris’ wedding date
• Andrea Anders as Helen
• Joe Walsh as Jesse, Aldo’s father
• Ethan Cutkosky as Caleb
• Ever Carradine as Pamela Finch
• Barry Livingston as Mr. Nelson
• Jane Curtin as Doris Goldufski
• William H. Macy as Smitty
• Eric Allan Kramer as Bobo
• Jack McBrayer as Jack Fudderman
• Jaime Pressly as Tire Shop Manager
• Whoopi Goldberg as Ms. Glen
• Nick Offerman as Adam Chestnut, restaurateur
• Parvesh Cheena as Trivia Game Host
• Charlie Korman as Caleb
FAQ
How many seasons of The Conners are there?
As of 2025, The Conners has 7 seasons, with the first airing in 2018.
What happened to Roseanne in The Conners?
Roseanne’s character was written out of the show following Roseanne Barr’s real-life controversy.
The show explained her character’s absence by saying that Roseanne had passed away from an accidental overdose, and the story continued with her family dealing with the loss.
Is The Conners a continuation of Roseanne?
Yes, The Conners is a continuation of Roseanne, following the events of the previous series.
It picks up after Roseanne’s death, focusing on the Conner family as they navigate life’s challenges without her.
Can I watch The Conners online?
Yes, The Conners is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and ABC’s official site, where you can watch episodes from all seasons.
Conclusion
The Conners successfully steps out of the long shadow of Roseanne to become a heartfelt and authentic family sitcom in its own right.
With a talented cast, relatable storylines, and a perfect mix of humor and emotional depth, it captures the essence of working-class America without feeling forced or outdated.
Whether you’re catching up from the beginning or jumping into later seasons, The Conners offers a grounded, witty, and often touching look at life’s everyday battles — and the family that helps you survive them.