John Goodman has been open about how his relationship with Roseanne Barr, his co-star on Roseanne (1988–1997, 2018), changed over the years, especially after the controversy that led to the sitcom’s cancellation. Goodman and Barr first appeared together as Dan and Roseanne Connor in 1988, quickly becoming household names. Their on-screen chemistry helped the show become one of America’s most-watched sitcoms, running nearly a decade until the 1997 finale.
The 2018 revival initially thrilled fans and drew huge viewership. However, it was abruptly cancelled after Roseanne Barr posted a widely criticized tweet comparing Valerie Jarrett, a former adviser to President Obama, to an ape, according to Hello!. ABC called the tweet “abhorrent, repugnant, and inconsistent with our values.” Despite Barr’s apology, the network ended the series immediately. During this time, John Goodman’s relationship with Roseanne Barr faced a real test. He publicly defended her, saying he knew “for a fact that she’s not a racist.”
John Goodman’s Relationship with Roseanne Barr After 2018
After the cancellation, ABC continued the story with The Conners, a reworked version of the show. John Goodman returned as Dan Connor, while Roseanne’s character was written out, dying from an opioid overdose. The change forced his character to face the grief of losing his wife. Similarly, John Goodman’s relationship with Roseanne Barr shifted in real life.
Earlier this year, Goodman told The Hollywood Reporter that he has not spoken to Barr in “seven or eight years.” He acknowledged that she might not want to reconnect either. However, he fondly recalled their early friendship, saying they “hit it off from jump street” and describing their time together on the original series as “special.” While distance has grown between them, Goodman emphasized that no hard feelings remain, showing the respect he still holds for Barr.
A Lasting Legacy
Despite the controversy and distance, John Goodman’s relationship with Roseanne Barr continues to define an important chapter in television history. Their partnership shaped sitcom storytelling and left a lasting impression on fans worldwide. The Conners carries on without Barr, yet Goodman remains central to the show, honoring both the original series and the iconic dynamic he shared with his co-star.
The evolution of John Goodman’s relationship with Roseanne Barr demonstrates how professional bonds can change over time while still leaving an enduring legacy. Their chemistry and work together remain unforgettable in television history.