Why did ABC recast D.J.’s wife Geena on The Conners?

D.J.’s wife, Geena, was played by two actresses on both Roseanne and the revival. Now, ABC has recast the role for the spin-off, The Conners, but why?

Rae’Ven Larrymore Kelly originally played the role of Geena, D.J’s wife, only for one episode in Roseanne called “White Men Can’t Kiss”. Then when Roseanne was revived in 2018, ABC recast the role played by Xosha Roquemore who had a cameo role in the episode “Go Cubs” and she was on Skype. Now, ABC has created the spin-off The Conners and has once again recast the role. Maya Lynne Robinson will now be a series regular. But why?

It makes me curious as to why the network would recast the role not once, not twice, but three times. Isn’t that a little too much? Surely they must have a reason for this. Changing actors for a role multiple times isn’t helpful for the audience, especially that we will have to re-adjust to a new actor each time.

More from ABC

• Dancing with the Stars season 32 week 9 scorecard: Who went home on DWTS?
• Roger Howarth is leaving General Hospital (Cast exit explained)
• Taylor Swift won’t appear in special Dancing with the Stars episode
• ABC will start rolling out its midseason schedule January 2024 (Release dates and airtimes)
• Grey’s Anatomy season 20 officially has a premiere date (Everything to know)

One of the main things I’ve learned from shows: Don’t recast the role unless its necessary. Not having the same actor throughout the show’s running usually makes the show seem off.

There is always something about the same actor appearing on every episode as they’re always on your TV screen every week. They’re like a family member/friend to you.

That reason may seem corny, but that’s the way I feel about it. Hopefully, this doesn’t pull away the audience when The Conners premieres because too many changes is never a good thing. Although in this case, it should be fine, as fans have barely seen Geena.

Michael Ausiello of TVLine.com answered a fan’s question to why Geen’s role has been recast:

"Ausiello: There’s nothing scandalous afoot. I’m told it was simply a creative decision made by the producers."

What do you think of ABC’s reason to recast the role of Geena? Good? Bad? Comment below.

The Conners premieres on Oct. 16 at 8/7c on ABC