Thursday, December 26, 2024

Roseanne Spin-Off “The Conners” Jumped 1 Mil Viewers in Ratings With Live Show and Guest Star Katey Sagal

First of all, I didn’t realize that Katey Sagal’s appearance last night on “The Conners” was her ninth. Has ABC promoted this at all? The famed “Married with Children” star plays Louise, the waitress whom Dan (John Goodman) is dating after the death of his wife, Roseanne.

Roseanne Barr has really been replaced for good on her show. Last night, Dan and Louise broke up, and she left town, because he’s still not “over” Roseanne. But Sagal is too good not to have her return. My guess is she will marry Dan. Barr must be livid.

Last night’s episode was LIVE, and used cut ins from ABC News about the New Hampshire primary. The result was a JUMP of 1 million viewers, to give the series its best ratings this season– 6.3 million people, and a 25% increase in the key demo. I watched it LIVE on Jet Blue and was very impressed, although Goodman’s health always seems fragile. He’s gained back a little weight, which is good, but his breathing is a concern. He’s a national treasure, so I hope he’s ok.

All in all, “The Conners” was very strong last night. The kids have gotten better, much more comfortable. Laurie Metcalf is wonderful, as always. I really like Lecy Goranson. She’s also much improved and very engaging. Michael Fishman also seems more relaxed.

Maybe “The Conners” should go live during every sweeps period. Metcalf is a Tony winning actress, they know how to do this very well.

Roger Friedman
Roger Friedmanhttps://www.showbiz411.com
Roger Friedman began his Showbiz411 column in April 2009 after 10 years with Fox News, where he created the Fox411 column. His movie reviews are carried by Rotten Tomatoes, and he is a member of both the movie and TV branches of the Critics Choice Awards. His articles have appeared in dozens of publications over the years including New York Magazine, where he wrote the Intelligencer column in the mid 90s and covered the OJ Simpson trial, and Fox News (when it wasn't so crazy) where he covered Michael Jackson. He is also the writer and co-producer of "Only the Strong Survive," a selection of the Cannes, Sundance, and Telluride Film festivals, directed by DA Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus.

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