Shows like The Wonder Years, Growing Pains, Murphy Brown, Dallas, and Dynasty ruled television in the 80’s and 90’s, and had for many years. However once Roseanne debuted in 1988, a new kind of family was presented to audiences, introducing a new kind matriarch. Admired for its representation of blue-collar America, this Emmy winning series broke ground thanks to its envelope pushing storylines (in this era anyways.) Buckle up though, it’s making a comeback. March 27, 2018 is when Roseanne returns to your TV screens for an eight episode run. This is precisely why we’re taking a closer look at the behind the scenes workings of one of America’s most beloved series.
Paving The Way For Comedians
Marcy Carsey and Tom Werner were two TV producers that were interested in creating a show about a working mother. When they witnessed Roseanne Barr’s “outspoken domestic goddess comedy routine” on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1985, they didn’t hesitate to offer her a show. Barr wasn’t the first performer to go from stand up to TV either, but her ABC show was an instantaneous success. As a result of Barr’s success, other comedians found themselves starring in their very own shows: such as Tim Allen (Home Improvement), Brett Butler (Grace Under Fire), Ellen DeGeneres (Ellen), and Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond), to name a few.
Paving The Way For Comedians
Roseanne VS Life and Stuff
Matt Williams is the creator, head writer, and executive producer of Roseanne, however he originally wanted to name the show Life and Stuff. Williams believed that the kind title of the show established it as ensemble piece. However Roseanne Barr argued that the title was all wrong and should instead be called Roseanne as she is the lead character and the show is based on her life. Guess we know who won that argument!
Roseanne VS Life and Stuff