In the world of sitcoms, getting hired—and subsequently fired—from the writing staff of Roseanne became a rite of passage for many in Hollywood. Among them is Bruce Helford, who joined the iconic show in its fifth season before being let go a year later. So, what prompted him to return as head writer for the revival airing on ABC?
A Memorable Experience
Reflecting on his time with the show from 1992 to 1993, Helford describes it as “one of the best years of my life.” Despite the immense pressure of working on the top-rated sitcom, he never took his firing personally. “My agent and lawyer both said that everybody got fired,” he noted, emphasizing that such outcomes were part of the industry’s nature.
A Different Environment
Helford recalls the challenges of working with Roseanne Barr during the early ’90s, when her busy schedule made communication difficult. “We had to second guess her,” he explained, recalling late-night script sessions that often extended until 2 a.m. The commitment to creating honest, groundbreaking content made the experience both demanding and rewarding.
A More Collaborative Process
This time around, Helford has found the atmosphere much more collaborative. With Barr being more accessible to the writing team, getting her input has been quicker and easier. Helford explains, “Almost everybody here started out with very little, so we all understand the reality of working-class people.” This shared understanding has helped shape the revival’s voice.
A Heartfelt Reunion
In a touching moment, Barr even apologized to Helford for firing him years ago. “She gave me a big hug and said, ‘Oh yeah, I fired you. You are the best writer we ever had. Sorry about that,'” he recalled, showcasing how far their relationship has come.
Conclusion
With the revival set to debut on March 27 at 8 p.m. on ABC, Helford’s return signifies not just a new chapter for Roseanne, but also a testament to the enduring bond between the cast and crew. Fans can look forward to a fresh yet familiar take on the beloved series, reflecting the nuances of working-class life with authenticity and humor.
