Darlene's Revelation in The Conners Season 6: Acknowledging David's Past Pain

Darlene's latest dilemma in The Conners season 6 leads her to confront her mistreatment of David after 27 years since Roseanne. Mark, who was absent in the first three episodes, finally appears in episode 4 titled "Shrinks Don't Talk and Kids Don't Sing." The episode shows him adjusting to life as a college commuter student, a storyline that continues from season 5 where he struggled to secure funding for school. Unfortunately, just like many other things in the Conners' lives, things do not go as planned, leading Darlene to make a major sacrifice to ensure Mark's academic future.

Darlene's decision to leave her cushy job to be a lunch lady at Mark's school to help him pay for it remains a controversial decision. It seemed counter-intuitive for her to jeopardize her future when there were other ways that her son could have continued with college without her making that significant sacrifice. However, she was determined to give Mark as much as he needed. She remains committed to the idea in The Conners season 6 when she goes to great lengths to learn why Mark is seeing a shrink, resulting in her finally confessing to David's mistreatment.

Darlene Admits Her Poor Treatment Of David In The Conners Season 6, Episode 4

David endured years of maltreatment from Darlene and even her family.

Sara Gilbert's Darlene checks her phone on the couch in The Conners season 6 episode 3 - David endured years of maltreatment from Darlene and even her family. - Darlene Admits Her Poor Treatment Of David In The Conners Season 6, Episode 4

Darlene becomes worried about Mark's well-being in school after spotting him leaving the therapist's office in The Conners season 6, episode 4, "Shrinks Don't Talk and Kids Don't Sing." She makes an effort to uncover the reason for his visit by subtly engaging with the therapist during her lunch break. Despite the therapist's inability to share any details due to confidentiality laws, Darlene persists in her quest for answers and eventually confronts her son about the situation.

As Darlene speculates on the potential causes of Mark's struggles, she reflects on her separation from David and its potential impact on their son. When Mark mentions having trouble sleeping, Darlene humorously suggests that he may be lying awake pondering the effects of their family dynamics on his ability to form lasting relationships. This moment of levity belies the deeper issues of mistreatment that David endured not just from Darlene, but from their entire family during the events of Roseanne.

David, unlike his brother Mark who was assertive and confident, often found himself being meek and timid. This made it easy for Darlene to dominate their relationship and take advantage of him. Despite her affection towards him, Darlene could be overly harsh and insensitive towards his feelings. Unfortunately, David allowed her to control the dynamics of their relationship, becoming a pushover in the process. Adding to his struggles, he was also expected to cater to the whole family while living with them.

The Conners Makes The Destruction Of David Worse

The Conners season 5 finale fully destroys David's character.

Sara Gilbert and Johnny Galecki as Darlene and David looking sad in The Conners - The Conners season 5 finale fully destroys David's character. - The Conners Makes The Destruction Of David Worse

Despite the mistreatment David faced from Darlene and her family, it does not excuse his own wrongdoings. He must take responsibility for his actions as a father to Harris and Mark. Upon his return to The Conners, he made promises to rebuild his family with Darlene, but once again, he disappointed her. David acknowledges that his tendency to avoid addressing his emotions leads him to flee and evade instead of facing them head-on.

It's unfair and misleading to label David as a villain solely based on his mistakes, without considering his entire history with the clan.

Still, it is incorrect to suggest that The Conners completely destroyed David beyond repair. The Conners often use humor to address serious issues, which is a key aspect of the appeal of the Roseanne franchise.

Will David Ever Return In The Conners?

Johnny Galecki is currently on hiatus.

Johnny Galecki as David in The Conners - Johnny Galecki is currently on hiatus. - Will David Ever Return In The Conners?

Bev's departure in The Conners season 6 follows other significant cast exits, but the writers are open to bringing back familiar faces. This includes David, portrayed by Johnny Galecki. Currently on hiatus, his return depends on future storylines and Galecki's availability. The pressure to feature him again has been lifted after The Conners season 5 finale.

The Conners season 6 airs new episodes every Wednesday, 8pm ET on ABC.

Editor's P/S:

The article explores Darlene's long-overdue confrontation regarding her mistreatment of David in "The Conners." It sheds light on the complexities and dynamics within the family, particularly the subtle yet damaging ways in which Darlene has treated her brother. The episode highlights the lasting impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships and the importance of addressing past wrongs. While Darlene's decision to leave her job to support Mark's education may seem extreme, it reflects her unwavering commitment to her family.

The article also addresses David's own shortcomings and the unfair portrayal he has received in the show. While acknowledging his flaws, the writer argues that "The Conners" has been unnecessarily harsh in its treatment of David, disregarding his complex history with the family. The question of David's potential return remains open, but the writers' willingness to bring back familiar faces leaves hope for a more balanced and nuanced portrayal of this character in the future.