EXCLUSIVE: John Goodman Struggles with The Conners Ending—Admits He’s “Old and Resistant to Change” as He Says Goodbye to Dan Conner!

In a heartfelt admission, John Goodman has shared his emotional struggle as The Conners, the hit sitcom in which he has played the iconic Dan Conner for over 30 years, comes to an end. Goodman, 72, opened up about his feelings during a recent interview, confessing that he finds it difficult to accept the show’s finale. “It’s really hard,” Goodman said. “I’m old and resistant to change, but I’m also deeply grateful for everything that the show has given me.”

For many fans, Goodman’s portrayal of Dan Conner has been one of the most beloved elements of both Roseanne and its spinoff The Conners. The character of Dan, a blue-collar father navigating the ups and downs of family life, resonated with audiences because of his relatability and charm. But for Goodman, saying goodbye to Dan after playing the character for nearly four decades is not easy.

The Legacy of Dan Conner: A Career-Spanning Role

Goodman first stepped into the role of Dan Conner in 1988 on Roseanne, a groundbreaking sitcom that quickly became one of America’s most cherished TV shows. As Dan, Goodman portrayed a loving but flawed father, dealing with issues such as financial hardship, marriage struggles, and raising children. The show’s portrayal of working-class America struck a chord with millions, and Goodman’s portrayal of Dan was praised for its authenticity and warmth.

After Roseanne ended in 1997, Goodman returned to the role when The Conners was launched in 2018. While the show underwent significant changes following Roseanne Barr’s departure due to controversial remarks, Goodman’s return as Dan Conner was a constant that kept viewers tuned in. For Goodman, reprising the role brought back fond memories, but also the emotional weight of saying goodbye to a character that had been such a significant part of his life.

The End of The Conners: A Reflection on a Career in TV

As the seventh and final season of The Conners airs its last episode, Goodman has had plenty of time to reflect on his career and the impact Dan Conner has had on his life. “It’s something I’m going to miss for a while,” Goodman said, looking back on his time with the show. While The Conners faced some tough moments in terms of viewership and shifting network dynamics, Goodman believes that the show’s true strength lies in its portrayal of a family that has faced adversity and overcome challenges together.

“It’s about a normal family that’s been up against it for a long time,” Goodman explained. “And a lot of people in this country can relate to that. That’s why people connect to the show.”

But for Goodman, the finality of the series marks more than just the end of a successful television career. It’s a symbolic ending to a relationship with a character that has been part of his life for nearly half of it. Goodman admitted that he’s struggling with the idea of no longer being able to play Dan Conner, and the fact that his journey with the character is coming to a close has been difficult to accept.

The Show’s Impact: Family and Life Lessons

Throughout the years, The Conners has tackled issues that are close to the heart of many American families. From financial struggles to navigating parenthood, the show has continued to resonate with viewers who see their own lives reflected on screen. Goodman credits the show for giving him the opportunity to tackle important societal issues while still maintaining a sense of humor.

“Dan Conner’s journey is all about family. His love for his kids and his wife, his desire to keep his family together through thick and thin—those are the things that resonate with people,” Goodman said. “And for me, it’s been incredible to be able to continue that journey and see how it affects people.”

But the story of The Conners is not just about the struggles of Dan Conner; it’s also about the growth of the characters around him. The show’s diverse cast of characters has been integral in showcasing the importance of family dynamics, friendships, and resilience in the face of adversity. Goodman’s portrayal of Dan Conner has been at the center of this narrative, providing a relatable and heartwarming figure for viewers to connect with.

The Final Season and Looking Ahead

As the final season of The Conners airs its last episode, Goodman is not only reflecting on his time with the character but also looking ahead to what’s next. The actor has been in the business for over five decades, and while he is grateful for the opportunity to continue working, he also recognizes that it’s time to step back.

“There’s a certain point where you have to look at the bigger picture,” Goodman said. “You’ve done the work, you’ve had the opportunities, and now it’s time to see where life takes you next.”

While he doesn’t have immediate plans for a major project following The Conners, Goodman expressed interest in pursuing smaller, more personal roles that challenge him as an actor. “I’m looking for something different, something that will push me as an artist,” he said.

Dan Conner’s Legacy and Goodbye

Goodman’s connection with Dan Conner has undoubtedly shaped his career. It’s a role that’s both defined him and allowed him to grow as an actor, and as he says goodbye to this chapter of his life, he can’t help but feel a sense of loss.

“The end of The Conners is bittersweet for me,” Goodman reflected. “But I’m grateful for everything it gave me. It gave me a chance to be a part of something really special, and I’ll always carry that with me.”

A Lifetime of Work and Gratitude

In the final analysis, Goodman’s legacy as Dan Conner and as an actor will likely remain untarnished by the end of the show. His contributions to Roseanne and The Conners will be remembered for generations, and his portrayal of Dan Conner will always be a part of television history.

“It’s a wonderful thing to look back on. I’m proud of the work we’ve done, and I’m proud of the people I’ve worked with,” Goodman said with a smile.

As the final episode airs and the credits roll on The Conners, John Goodman’s legacy as Dan Conner will live on—both in the hearts of fans and in the lasting impact he’s had on the world of television.