Roseanne character update: Darlene Conner, sister and wife
Roseanne returns to ABC. What is in store for us? Let’s check in on Darlene Conner…
It’s not every day you get to see something you cherished growing up come back to you after it’s gone. Roseanne returning to network television is not only a blessing but to have the original cast is more than exciting.
Since the debut return is on March 27, I decided to timeline the original characters from where they first started to where it will continue to go. Bringing in those that we fondly remember, Roseanne, Dan, D.J., Becky, Darlene, and Jackie, I will also touch on those that drove the story forward: David, Mark, Crystal, and Beverly (Roseanne’s mom).
In one last tribute, I will bring in the minor characters that will also be coming back: Anne-Marie, Chucky, Nancy, and the second Becky, who will now be the surrogate to the original. Then the newcomers, Mary (DJ’s daughter), Mark (Darlene and David’s son), and Harris (Darlene and David’s daughter).
Next up, Darlene…
Born in Lanford, Darlene Conner Healy is the sister of Becky, DJ, and Jerry. Her parents, Dan and Roseanne, and her aunt Jackie play important roles in her development. Her role evolved quite drastically over time, the biggest character arc on the show.
Darlene first starts out enjoying sports and working with her hands. A tomboy not only in dress but her attitude. Spending her time with Dan watching either the Bulls or Cubs. Dan always expected more from Darlene than Becky and it was obvious that she was her father’s favorite.
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However, she also shares the humor and quick wit of her mother. Both Darlene and Roseanne constantly made baiting remarks to each other. As Darlene grew older her personality became more like her mother’s. It shined in her writing and their bond grew as well.
Her siblings were typical in their relationships. Mostly arguing with Becky calling her a “Barbie Doll” while Becky would snap back with “Butch.” However, they both relied on each other whether it was surviving their parents’ wrath or boy trouble. She also had a typical sibling relationship with little brother DJ. They would spar verbally and physically (off-screen). Darlene would always look after her younger brother and protect him when needed.
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Going to school was never a priority. Not because she wasn’t smart enough, but because she felt that grades didn’t define the person. In one episode she actually decided to bark in class. Sports always took up her time and attention whether it was basketball or softball.
As she grew older in adolescence, she became more inward, becoming depressive and removing herself from the family and friends. This drove her parents crazy as they couldn’t fix the situation and didn’t know what to do.
Like her mother, she has a creative side to her. In the early seasons, Darlene is celebrated because of her poetry, which moved both Roseanne and Jackie, giving them a deeper glimpse into her evolving personality. A few seasons later, reading books and writing comic book stories became important. This is when she meets her future boyfriend and husband David Healy (Johnny Galecki)
After receiving a scholarship to a Fine Arts college in Chicago, she would move David in and accomplish three-years there. Even though her relationship with David would be up and down, they ended up getting married and having two children together
In Season 10 (new), we know that Darlene has a daughter (Harris) and a son (Mark), but the relationship with David may not be the healthiest. This could possibly be the reason she moves back home. Galecki returns for one episode, but it is unclear if he (David) is there to repair the relationship or to move on.
Next: Roseanne character update: Becky Conner, sister and wife
Check my update on Roseanne, Dan, and Becky Conner
Roseanne Season 10, Episode 1, premieres March 27 on ABC.