Exciting news for fans of The Conners: the first five seasons of the hit sitcom will soon be available on-demand! This comes after years of following the journey of Dan and his extended family, especially in the wake of Roseanne Barr’s departure and the show’s evolution without its titular matriarch.
A Game-Changing Licensing Deal
According to Deadline, Werner Entertainment has secured a global licensing agreement with Lionsgate’s Worldwide Television Distribution Group and Debmar-Mercury. This deal will make the earlier seasons of The Conners accessible for streaming and syndication, allowing viewers to relive some of the show’s best moments. Previously, seasons were available on Hulu but were removed once new episodes aired, limiting fans’ ability to binge the series.
In addition to making the first five seasons available, the deal also extends to future seasons, ensuring that fans can continue to enjoy the show long after its original run.
What’s Next for The Conners?
While The Conners has been confirmed for a sixth season, there are whispers that it could be the last. Executive producer Bruce Helford hinted at this possibility, a sentiment echoed by series star John Goodman, who noted that the show has exceeded initial expectations in terms of longevity. As the series approaches its conclusion, there’s a sense that now is the time to wrap up lingering storylines for a satisfying farewell.
Implications of Syndication
The new syndication deal could indicate that The Conners is poised to continue its legacy, much like its predecessor, which enjoys strong cable rerun popularity. This means that viewers will have the opportunity to revisit the entire franchise multiple times, increasing residual paychecks for everyone involved with the project.
A Mid-Season Premiere on the Horizon?
Despite the excitement surrounding the availability of earlier seasons, fans may face a longer wait for Season 6 to premiere. ABC is implementing a “new strike-proof schedule” for fall 2023, which currently excludes several scripted series, including The Conners. This could lead to a mid-season premiere, contingent on the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
Conclusion
As The Conners gears up for its next chapter, the return of Seasons 1-5 on-demand offers a perfect opportunity for fans to catch up and reminisce about the Conner family’s journey. With the future of the show in flux, this licensing deal ensures that the essence of this beloved sitcom will continue to live on, keeping the laughs alive for years to come.
