The Conner family returned to the small screen last night with the beloved U.S. sitcom Roseanne airing the first episode of its revival and proving to be a huge ratings success for ABC.
The hourlong premiere pulled in a whopping 18.2 million viewers and a 5.2 rating in its key demo of adults aged 18-49. That was above expectations, and the biggest series debut this season ahead of CBS’ Young Sheldon, which had a 3.8 rating and 17.2 million viewers thanks in part to a lead-in by The Big Bang Theory.
I am so greatful to the fans of the Roseanne show for giving it a good Premiere rating. You are all wonderful-here is to making America laugh & talk again! LOVE U
— Roseanne Barr (@therealroseanne) March 28, 2018
As you might expect, there’s already talk about a season two renewal, and Deadline is reporting that ABC has already been talking to the cast about a 10-13 episode second season, although the network is keen to extend that should the opportunity arise. The show has an early renewal deadline of April 15th for a season two pick-up, but given last night’s ratings, it’s unlikely fans will have to wait that long before we get confirmation of a second season.
UPDATE: The season two renewal is now official, with ABC placing an order for 13 episodes. Here’s the announcement, via Twitter…
You asked for it! #Roseanne is getting another season! pic.twitter.com/1hpXx54jhI
— Roseanne on ABC (@RoseanneOnABC) March 30, 2018
Roseanne features the return of Roseanne Barr (Roseanne), John Goodman (Dan), Sara Gilbert (Darlene), Laurie Metcalf (Jackie), Michael Fishman (D.J.) and Lecy Goranson (Becky), while Sarah Chalke, the second Becky, will play the new character Andrea, and Johnny Galecki (David) is set to guest star in a single episode. New additions to the cast include Ames Mcnamara and Jayden Rey.
