The Evolution of D.J. Conner: From Sal Barone to Michael Fishman

The Casting Change

The journey of D.J. Conner, the youngest son of Roseanne and Dan Conner, on the hit TV series Roseanne is one filled with intrigue, casting changes, and behind-the-scenes dynamics. Most fans remember Michael Fishman as the beloved D.J., but the role was originally portrayed by Sal Barone in the show's pilot episode. This casting change set the stage for a significant shift in the character's portrayal and the dynamics of the Conner family on screen.

Michael Fishman smiling as DJ Conner in Roseanne

Sal Barone's brief stint as 6-year-old D.J. was cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, leading to the introduction of Michael Fishman as the permanent face of the character. The decision to recast the role was influenced by a combination of factors, including Barone's age, the dynamics among the cast, and the long-term vision for the character's development.

Roseanne and Dan talking to DJ in their living room in Roseanne

The Age Factor

The age factor played a pivotal role in the casting change for D.J. Conner. Sal Barone, who was only 7 years old when he appeared in the pilot episode, quickly outgrew the role due to a Writers Guild strike that caused a significant delay in filming the subsequent episodes. This unexpected growth spurt raised concerns among the producers and the show's creators about the continuity of the character's age and the impact it would have on the family dynamics within the series.

Sara Gilbert's Darlene, Laurie Metcalf's Jackie, John Goodman's Dan, Roseanne Barr's Roseanne, Sarah Chalke's Andrea, Michael Fishman's DJ, and Lecy Goranson's Becky pose by a couch in a Roseanne season 10 promo photo

With Darlene and Becky Conner's actors being significantly younger than Barone, the disparity in age became a pressing issue. The producers and the creative team foresaw potential challenges in maintaining the coherence of the Conner family dynamic if D.J.'s age continued to diverge from that of his siblings. This realization, coupled with Barone's noticeable growth, led to the decision to seek a new actor to embody the pivotal role of D.J. Conner.

Michael Fishman on The Conners Set

Behind-the-Scenes Dynamics

Apart from the age-related concerns, on-set dynamics and interpersonal relationships played a significant role in the recasting of D.J. Conner. Sara Gilbert, who portrayed Darlene Conner, recounted the discord between herself and Sal Barone during the early stages of the show. The clashes and friction between the young actors created an unfavorable environment, prompting the need to address the interpersonal dynamics within the cast.

Michael Fishman as DJ in the Roseanne Revival

Recognizing the impact of on-set conflicts on the show's production and the portrayal of the Conner family, the decision-makers opted to bring in Michael Fishman, a new face with a different dynamic. Fishman's arrival not only resolved the existing tensions but also injected a fresh energy into the role of D.J. Conner, paving the way for a transformative portrayal of the character and his interactions within the Conner family.

DJ Conner hugging his wife and daughter in The Conners