15 Things You Might Not Know About Roseanne

In 1988, ABC launched a sitcom designed around the standup routine of comedian Roseanne Barr. It was totally different from everything else on TV: shows full of wealthy people who looked like movie stars. It was an immediate hit, despite the fact that Barr’s acting abilities were dwarfed by the rest of the cast. No matter- she learned the craft fairly quickly, as we watched. Here’s some behind-the-scenes trivia about Roseanne.  

2. THE SHOW WAS ORIGINALLY TITLED LIFE AND STUFF.

Roseanne creator, head writer, and executive producer Matt Williams said the benign title established the sitcom as an ensemble piece. But Barr argued that the show should be called Roseanne, since she was the lead character and the show was based on her life. (Williams left the show after season one.)

9. ALL THREE OF BARR’S EX-HUSBANDS MADE GUEST APPEARANCES ON THE SHOW.

Roseanne was inspired by life with the comedian’s first husband, Bill Pentland, and their three children. Pentland served as an executive consultant for three seasons, wrote two episodes, and played one of Dan’s buddies in an early episode. In 1990, Barr divorced Pentland after 16 years of marriage. Four days later, she wed comedian Tom Arnold, who had a recurring role as Arnie Thomas. Then in 1995 Barr married Ben Thomas, her former bodyguard, and gave him two bit roles as a cop. They remain his only acting credits.

Critics thought that Roseanne was a ratings hit because it portrayed working-class people that the audience could relate to. But we all know it was a hit because the lines were so funny, and we all wish we could be that fast on our feet with the perfect comeback. Read the rest of the trivia list about Roseanne at mental_floss.


Login to comment.




Email This Post to a Friend
"15 Things You Might Not Know About Roseanne"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More