There’s no question that Roseanne left a lasting impact on TV history, but what made the show truly unforgettable were its moments—those perfect blendings of humor, heart, and real-life struggles. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, there are some Roseanne moments that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic and unforgettable moments that still resonate today.
1. The Opening Theme Song: “The Roseanne Theme”
It all starts with the opening theme song, which is an anthem of blue-collar America. The song, performed by the show’s stars, gave fans a taste of the show’s no-nonsense attitude. The theme song quickly became iconic, and the accompanying credits of the family members doing normal, everyday activities gave viewers a sense of the realness the show was all about.
2. Roseanne Conner’s Feminist Speech
In season 5, Roseanne delivered a speech about feminism that was groundbreaking for its time. During an episode where Roseanne’s character takes on a leadership role, she reflects on the challenges women face in a patriarchal society. It was one of the first times a mainstream sitcom addressed feminism head-on, and Roseanne’s boldness in speaking up made it clear that she wasn’t just a sitcom mom—she was a force to be reckoned with.
3. The Halloween Episode: A Fan-Favorite Tradition
Halloween was always a big deal on Roseanne, with the Conner family celebrating in over-the-top fashion. From Roseanne dressing up as a witch to the family’s wild costumes, these Halloween episodes have become a staple in the show’s legacy. The humor and chaos that unfolded every year added to the show’s charm.
4. The Birth of Baby Jerry Garcia
One of the most heartfelt moments in Roseanne came during the birth of Jackie’s son, Jerry Garcia. The birth was chaotic, hilarious, and touching, as Jackie struggled to find her place as a new mother. The mix of humor and emotion in this moment encapsulated the show’s perfect balance of comedy and real-life issues.
5. Roseanne Conner’s Death and the Series Finale Twist
Perhaps the most unforgettable moment came in the series finale when the shocking twist was revealed: Roseanne had died. The revelation that the final season had been a fictional narrative crafted by Roseanne herself shocked fans and changed how viewers saw the entire series. It was a bold and emotional move, reflecting the show’s willingness to push boundaries and challenge the conventions of sitcoms.