Roseanne: 10 Best Thanksgiving & Christmas Episodes

The Legacy of Roseanne

When it comes to expressing gratitude and spreading yuletide cheer, Roseanne has left a lasting legacy with its Thanksgiving and Christmas episodes. The sitcom, which originally began airing Thanksgiving and Christmas episodes in season 2, has become a yearly event for fans. The series follows the Conners, played by Roseanne Barr and John Goodman, as their children grow up. Despite being a sitcom, Roseanne also delves into dramatic storylines involving loss, abusive relationships, and the challenges of life.

The Conner family opening their Christmas presents in the living room in the Roseanne episode Home for the Holidays

The holiday episodes of Roseanne are a family affair, often featuring as many main and recurring cast members as possible. While there are numerous Thanksgiving and Christmas episodes across the series, the most memorable ones occur during the middle of the show's run, showcasing its unique storytelling and relatable themes. The series even earned a revival nearly 20 years after it originally aired, albeit rebranded as The Conners without Roseanne Barr's involvement.

The cast of Roseanne sit for a family portrait in season 7

Top Christmas Episodes

One of the standout Christmas episodes is 'Home For The Holidays' from Season 9, Episode 12. The episode portrays Dan's return home after spending time with his ill mother, leading to domestic strife when his mysterious phone conversations are overheard. Although the episode features heartwarming moments, the unexpected storyline left many fans feeling alienated.

A side by side image features DJ and his classmates in costume for a play about Thanksgiving and Roseanne and Dan as pilgrims for a traditional dinner in the Roseanne episode The Last Thursday In November

Another noteworthy Christmas episode is 'The Courtship Of Eddie, Dan's Father' from Season 3, Episode 13. This two-part episode captures the surprise visit of Dan's father, leading to a yuletide bash and unexpected revelations. The episode showcases the fresh writing and committed performances that defined the halcyon days of Roseanne's run.

Dan sitting in his chair in the Roseanne episode The Courtship of Eddie

The best Christmas episode, however, is 'Santa Claus' from Season 4, Episode 12. This exceptionally written holiday expression features Mr. and Mrs. Claus volunteering at Rodbell's, and the heartfelt drama surrounding Roseanne, Darlene, and her friend Karen. The tender and touching moments in this episode continue to resonate with fans for years to come.

Roseanne in a Santa suit with a kid in her lap in the Roseanne episode Santa Claus

Memorable Thanksgiving Episodes

Among the notable Thanksgiving episodes is 'The Last Thursday In November' from Season 8, Episode 8. This episode takes a unique approach with DJ's school Thanksgiving pageant devolving into a violent parody, while Roseanne learns the history of indigenous Americans' holiday celebration. The episode sparked mixed reactions but succeeded in handling the historical aspect truthfully.

Another standout is 'Thanksgiving 1994' from Season 7, Episode 10. Although the episode takes a harrowing turn with a health scare and past abortions, it captures the realistic hardships that make the show relatable. Despite its dark and depressing tone, the episode resonated with fans for its portrayal of the Conners' struggles.

The whole family sitting at the kitchen table in the Roseanne episode Thanksgiving 1994

A particularly memorable Thanksgiving episode is 'Thanksgiving 1991' from Season 4, Episode 10. The episode revolves around a huge family secret and the Conners' ability to lift each other up during tough times. The touching moments in this episode serve as a reminder of the strength of family bonds during the holidays.

Darlene reading The Catcher in the Rye in the Roseanne episode Thanksgiving 1991