Listen, there are moments in TV history that just stick with you, right? For many of us, the drama of Roseanne and Dan Conner’s marriage on the classic sitcom Roseanne was one of those unforgettable storylines. Back in the late '80s, Roseanne premiered on ABC, and we were introduced to the Conner family—a relatable, working-class couple raising three kids in the Illinois suburbs. But things took a shocking turn during Season 9 when Dan cheated on Roseanne. Let’s break this down because it’s a twist that still has fans talking.
How It All Began: The Start of the Heartbreak
Let me set the scene for you. In the beginning of the final season, which aired from September 1996 to May 1997, Dan announced he was heading to California to visit his mom, played by the late Debbie Reynolds. Now, if you’ve ever watched the show, you know Dan and Roseanne had a strong bond. They were the kind of couple who made it through thick and thin, so this news came as a shock to everyone. But here’s the kicker: when Dan returned to Illinois a few episodes later, Roseanne's sister, Jackie, caught him flirting with his mom’s nurse over the phone. And guess what? That’s when the truth came out—he had an affair. Roseanne, naturally, was devastated and kicked Dan out of the house. It was a moment that left fans reeling.
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The Fallout: What Happened Next?
In the episode titled “Hit the Road, Jack,” Roseanne was seen driving aimlessly around town, trying to process what had happened. She indulged in fast food and was clearly lost in her thoughts. Meanwhile, Dan, feeling the weight of his actions, decided to head back to California. But at the last minute, he changed his mind and checked into a nearby motel instead. It wasn’t long before Becky Conner’s boyfriend, Mark Healy, told Roseanne that Dan was still in town. What’s more, he desperately wanted to repair his relationship with his wife. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, and viewers were right there with them.
The Roseanne cast.
Reconciliation and the Big Reveal
A few episodes later, Dan and Roseanne finally reconciled in the episode titled “A Second Chance.” It was a moment of hope for fans who had been on the edge of their seats. But here’s where things got really interesting: at the end of the season, Roseanne revealed that the entire series had been fiction. Shocking, right? In reality, Dan had died from a heart attack, so the whole cheating storyline didn’t actually happen. Now, with the beloved series returning for an eight-episode reboot, the changed plot from the final season will essentially be erased. While we know Dan (and actor John Goodman) will be back, it’s still unclear if the cheating scandal will be referenced in the revival. Guess we’ll just have to tune in and find out!
