Laurie Metcalf has opened up about her bond with former co-star Roseanne Barr, reflecting on their relationship years after the “Roseanne” reboot faced controversy following Barr’s exit.
In a recent interview, Metcalf, 70, shared that there’s been no contact between them since the show’s revival ended in 2018. “There’s nothing controversial about it,” she noted. “We haven’t spoken since we said goodbye at the end of the reboot.”
In the original “Roseanne,” which aired from 1988 to 1997, Barr portrayed the strong-willed matriarch Roseanne Conner, while Metcalf played her sister Jackie Harris. The 2018 revival included the original cast and was initially well-received, leading to a quick renewal for an eleventh season. However, Barr was let go after making a racist remark on social media, prompting ABC to cancel the show shortly thereafter.
Despite several apologies from Barr, ABC’s then-president Channing Dungey deemed her comments “abhorrent and inconsistent with our values,” leading to the show’s cancellation.
Metcalf was asked if she felt anger towards Barr for the show’s downfall. “I don’t even know how to answer that,” she replied, appearing uncertain.
Revisiting their early days, Metcalf admitted, “I was intimidated by her because she was a newbie.” However, they quickly formed a strong on-screen partnership that resonated with viewers. “It was important to show that bond and add some humor,” Metcalf explained.
Though “Roseanne” gained traction as a cultural touchstone, Barr often clashed with producers over creative control, which led to tensions behind the scenes. Metcalf expressed support for Barr, recognizing her determination. “I saw someone who refused to compromise,” she stated. “She knew what she wanted, and most of the time, she was right.”
In June 2018, ABC announced a continuation of the series titled “The Conners,” which excluded Barr but acknowledged her character’s absence due to an off-screen death. Metcalf mentioned that the atmosphere was melancholic without Barr as they transitioned into this new chapter of the show.
“There was a sense of sadness throughout the room,” she reflected. “The Conners” eventually aired for seven seasons, concluding in April 2025.
More recently, John Goodman, who played Barr’s on-screen husband, mentioned in a July 2025 interview that he hadn’t spoken with Barr in years, expressing uncertainty about whether she’d be interested in reconnecting.
In a June 2025 chat, Barr candidly stated that she no longer remains in contact with her former co-stars, recalling fond memories but also expressing a sense of closure. “I’ve moved on from that horrible ending and that chapter of my life. I wish them the best,” she said, adding some pointed remarks about the circumstances surrounding the show’s end.
