ABC Picks Up 'Roseanne' Spinoff 'The Conners' Without Any Roseanne Barr Involvement

ABC confirmed on Thursday that "The Conners" was officially picked up for 10 episodes, with Dan (John Goodman), Darlene (Sara Gilbert), Jackie (Laurie Metcalf), Becky (Lecy Goranson), and DJ (Michael Fishman) all returning after what the network described as "a sudden turn of events" affects the family.

In the finale, Roseanne was about to head into surgery for her knee ... seems like she might not make it out alive.

"After a sudden turn of events, the Conners are forced to face the daily struggles of life in Lanford in a way they never have before," reads the ABC press release. "This iconic family – Dan, Jackie, Darlene, Becky and D.J. – grapples with parenthood, dating, an unexpected pregnancy, financial pressures, aging and in-laws in working-class America. Through it all, the fights, the coupon cutting, the hand-me-downs, the breakdowns – with love, humor and perseverance, the family prevails."

Via a joint statement, the returning cast members said, "We have received a tremendous amount of support from fans of our show, and it's clear that these characters not only have a place in our hearts, but in the hearts and homes of our audience. We all came back last season because we wanted to tell stories about the challenges facing a working-class family today. We are so happy to have the opportunity to return with the cast and crew to continue to share those stories through love and laughter."

Thanks to an agreement between Roseanne Barr and series producer Tom Werner, Barr have no financial stake in the spinoff or offer any creative input. "I regret the circumstances that have caused me to be removed from Roseanne," Barr said in a statement. "I agreed to the settlement in order that 200 jobs of beloved cast and crew could be saved, and I wish the best for everyone involved."

"The Conners' stories demonstrate that families can always find common ground through conversation, laughter and love," added ABC. "The spinoff will continue to portray contemporary issues that are as relevant today as they were 30 years ago."