Prior to his success on The Big Bang Theory, Johnny Galecki had lots of success working on Roseanne. Decades later, an invitation was extended, and Galecki made sure to take part. He called it one of the best weeks of his life. However, looking back, Galecki couldn’t believe how easy it was to pick up a character so effortlessly that he hadn’t in years.
We’ll reveal what the experience was like, while also putting the spotlight on why he turned down a potential return, and how his relationship with Roseanne Barr took a hit following a particular tweet.
Johnny Galecki Agreed With Sara Gilbert’s Decision To Walk Away From The Big Bang Theory
Sara Gilbert left The Big Bang Theory early despite a promising start, but Johnny Galecki completely agreed with her decision.
Johnny Galecki’s Return Was “Shocking” And “Creepy” Given How Easy It Was Despite Being Out Of Character For Years
Johnny Galecki’s return to Roseanne was one fans fully embraced, and that included Galecki himself. However, as far as the return was concerned, the actor didn’t expect it to go as easily as it did.
Johnny recalled his experience during a red carpet interview. The actor revealed, “I was nervous about it because it’s been so long. And then it was a little shocking and a little creepy, how quickly a character that has been dormant can resurface. It was a lot less effort than we thought it would be.”
He continues, “And we all agreed, everyone in the cast seemed to say that. We were all surprised by that.”
“[Sara Gilbert] gave all the cast members kind of full rein to contribute where they thought their characters would be 20 years later, so it was very much a team collaboration. It was just one of the best weeks of my life. It was very, very emotional. It was kind of like what I would imagine going to your 20-year high school reunion was, but all the people are like still your heroes.”
Although Galecki fully embraced the return, it seems like a certain reunion wasn’t what he expected given the circumstances at the time.
Johnny Galecki’s Relationship With Roseanne Barr Soured
Similar to lots of others in Hollywood, Galecki was “shocked” over Roseanne Barr’s tweet scandal. Looking back, the actor admits he was angry, while also faulting Barr for putting so many jobs at risk.
“That first day when that horrible, horrible tweet of hers went out, I was angry, and not just ‘cause it was such a fiercely, ugly thing to say … but I knew that they were gearing up to do a another year on the show and how many other people’s jobs that affected and put into danger,” Galecki said on BuzzFeed News’ Profile. “Then I was worried, because honestly I don’t know her to be a person that would say such a thing.”
“I know that when I knew her well, a comment like that isn’t something she would’ve tolerated.” “I’m still really shocked over it,” he added. ” It’s a very strange sensation when you’re pissed at the same person you’re concerned about.”
A tough moment for everyone involved and one that ultimately hurt Barr’s career.
Johnny Galecki Was Offered A Return To The Show For Another Appearance But Turned It Down
Sadly for fans, another return before the series finale was not meant to be for Galecki. Those behind the scenes on The Conners had interest in bringing the actor back. However, given that TBBT had come to an end, it seems like Galecki’s goals and mindset were elsewhere at the time.
Executive producers Bruce Helford and Dave Caplan told TV Line about their pitch in an attempt to get the actor onboard.
“We even approached [Galecki] for this episode, to be honest with you,” Helford told TVLine. “It was just one of those things where it didn’t work out — and like you say, he’s certainly taking a step away, taking a breather, and we understand that. But we have to deal with what’s going on in the Conners’ lives, so we just decided this was the time [to address David’s absence].”
“The last time Johnny was here, he really went out of his way to say how much he loved not only the legacy of the show, but what we’re doing with The Conners,” Caplan added. “He’s a big fan, and he loved being on the show. But real life t
