Roseanne, a show that celebrated the ups and downs of a working-class American family, was one of the most successful series of the late '80s and early '90s. Helmed by stand-up comedian and self-proclaimed "Domestic Goddess" Roseanne Barr, the show was a consistent ratings winner that amassed several awards during its tenure. It ran on ABC from 1988 to 1997 and ended with one of the most original (and confusing) finales in TV history.
On the show, chunky all-American couple Dan and Roseanne Conner live in a modest home at 714 Delaware St., where they struggle to make ends meet in the bleak economic morass of Lanford, Ill. But unlike most modern marital shows, the Conners truly, madly love each other -- and they're not afraid to show it. Adding excitement, turmoil and angst to their existence are three children: Becky, Darlene and DJ; plus an extended family includes Roseanne's wacky sister Jackie and literally dozens of relatives, neighbors, friends and foes that come and go throughout the series' nine-year run.
One of the more unique qualities of
Roseanne was the woman who masterminded the series. By maintaining a strong creative control over the show (then husband Tom Arnold was often present on the set to help her battle producers) and never shying from controversy, the comedy was honest, at times biting and always fresh. So while the public found itself polarized over liking or disliking the show (or its creator), no one could deny the integrity of the product. In its entire run, the show never dropped off the Top 20 shows in primetime.
