Michael Fishman, who portrayed D.J. Conner on the sitcom "Roseanne," has directly addressed fans who continue to defend Roseanne Barr following her 2018 racist remark that led to the revival of the show's cancellation.
In a recent Instagram video, Fishman responded to a follower who claimed Barr was only making "usual jokes a comedian makes" and that America had "backstabbed" her. Fishman labeled this sentiment as "ignorant and inaccurate," stating that such views perpetuate a falsehood and use "a political smoke screen to justify the indefensible."
Fishman emphasized that while freedom of speech is protected in the U.S., it does not absolve individuals of responsibility or consequences. He noted that Barr herself had deemed her remark "indefensible" and asserted that the show was "rightfully canceled."
The "Roseanne" revival premiered on ABC in March 2018 to strong ratings and critical acclaim, with ABC quickly renewing it for a second season. However, the network canceled the series in May of that year after Barr posted a racist tweet comparing former White House adviser Valerie Jarrett, a Black woman, to an ape.
At the time of the cancellation, Fishman, along with other cast members, released statements condemning Barr's remark as "reprehensible and intolerable." He clarified that the actions of one person did not represent the views of the entire cast and that he always aimed to promote inclusivity.
Barr, a vocal supporter of then-President Donald Trump, had publicly responded to Fishman's initial statement, claiming she had created the platform for inclusivity on the show.
Following the cancellation, Fishman, along with "Roseanne" co-stars Sara Gilbert, John Goodman, Lecy Goranson, and Laurie Metcalf, moved on to the spinoff series "The Conners," which aired from 2018 to 2025. Barr was not part of "The Conners."
Despite their professional and personal differences, Fishman concluded his recent video by stating he would always have "compassion and love" for Barr, acknowledging that "good people make mistakes."