John Goodman Reflects on Comedy, Friendship, and the Untold Stories of Hollywood

John Goodman Reflects on Fond Memories with Roseanne Barr and His Journey Through Hollywood's Ups and Downs

John Goodman, the beloved actor known for his roles in classic sitcoms and films, recently opened up about his long-standing relationship with former co-star Roseanne Barr. The two shared the screen as a married couple on the groundbreaking show "Roseanne" for nine years, from 1988 to 1997. In a candid interview with *The Hollywood Reporter*, Goodman revealed that he hasn’t been in contact with Barr for around seven or eight years, indicating a sense of estrangement. While he expressed uncertainty about Barr’s interest in reconnecting, he reflected fondly on their time together, emphasizing the chemistry that made their partnership memorable.

Goodman recalled the electric connection they had during the original series, stating, “We hit it off from jump street. She made me laugh, and I made her laugh, and wow, it was so much fun.” Their comedic rapport contributed to the show’s immense popularity, which attracted up to 30 million viewers during its prime. Goodman reminisced about that era, noting how different the television landscape has become today. The original run of "Roseanne" had established a significant cultural impact, addressing real-life issues through humor, which resonated with audiences across America.

The return of "Roseanne" for a 10th season in 2018 met with excitement but was short-lived. Barr's controversial tweets—most infamously one that compared former Obama adviser Valerie Jarrett to an ape—led to the show's abrupt cancellation. ABC's President at the time, Channing Dungey, condemned Barr’s statements and underscored that they were inconsistent with the network’s values. This fallout not only resulted in the cancellation of the revival but also effectively derailed Barr’s career, leaving a significant mark on her legacy.

Following "Roseanne," Goodman reprised his role as Dan Conner in the spinoff series "The Conners," which aired from 2018 to 2025. The series explored the family’s dynamics after Barr's character was killed off due to a storyline involving an opioid overdose. In a surprising twist, Barr claimed that she was offered the chance to guest star as a ghost on "The Conners," an offer she declined vehemently. “You’re asking me to come back to the show that you f–ing stole from me and killed my ass,” Barr asserted during her documentary, reflecting on her complex feelings about the revival. The spinoff, however, featured Goodman and the original cast, successfully navigating the show's new narrative direction.

The series finale of "The Conners" aired on April 23, 2025, and left audiences with an emotional farewell. Goodman’s poignant final scene, where he addressed the audience with a heartfelt “goodnight,” was not scripted. Showrunner Bruce Helford revealed that the touching moment was actually Goodman’s own idea, showcasing the depth of his connection to the character and the series. This farewell encapsulated years of love, laughter, and challenges shared between the characters and their viewers, cementing Goodman’s legacy in the hearts of fans everywhere.

Outside the world of sitcoms, John Goodman has been busy with new projects, including a highly anticipated film titled “The Revenant,” alongside Tom Cruise. However, his journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Earlier this year, Goodman suffered a serious injury on set when he fractured his hip. Describing the incident, he recounted how wearing stocking feet while walking past Tom Cruise caused him to slip and fall, resulting in a painful injury. Thankfully, after an unsettling period of recovery, Goodman reports that he is almost fully healed, ready to tackle new acting challenges with his signature tenacity.

As Goodman continues to navigate both the joys and challenges of life as a seasoned actor, his story serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics of fame, friendship, and the entertainment industry. His ability to reflect on past experiences—both the laughter he shared with Barr and the difficulties that followed—paints a picture of resilience. Goodman remains a cherished figure in Hollywood, admired not just for his roles but also for his heartfelt reflections on the relationships and experiences that have shaped his career.

In the ever-changing landscape of celebrity culture, Goodman’s enduring presence highlights the rich history of television while offering a glimpse into the backstage realities that often remain unspoken. As viewers and fans continue to engage with the stories of their favorite stars, the anecdotes shared by actors like Goodman deepen the connection we feel to their characters and the narratives they bring to life. With upcoming projects on the horizon and a storied past as part of his foundation, Goodman’s journey in Hollywood is far from over, and there’s surely more to look forward to in the future.