Updated: May 29, 2018
Originally Published: May 29, 2018
Roseanne Barr’s recent series of deeply offensive tweets has led ABC to cancel her eponymous show. Despite her attempts to apologize and her announcement of leaving Twitter, the network deemed these actions insufficient. ABC made the decision public today, only three months after the show premiered to impressive ratings and was gearing up for a second season.
Channing Dungey, ABC Entertainment’s president, stated, “Roseanne’s Twitter comments are abhorrent, repugnant, and not aligned with our values, prompting our decision to cancel the show.”
Barr’s Twitter activity has long raised eyebrows, as she has consistently supported controversial figures like Donald Trump and shared various right-wing conspiracy theories. Her tirade began with an inflammatory tweet about Chelsea Clinton, insinuating that she had married into the family of billionaire philanthropist George Soros. Clinton responded with grace, acknowledging her middle name and expressing appreciation for Soros’s charitable work, while dismissing Barr’s claims.
Undeterred, Barr escalated her attacks by promoting a long-debunked conspiracy theory about Soros and making a grotesque statement linking former Obama advisor Valerie Jarrett to a racially charged analogy. After facing backlash, Barr attempted to downplay her comments as a “joke,” later offering a half-hearted apology that fell flat.
As news of the cancellation spread, many cast members, including Wanda Sykes, publicly condemned Barr’s remarks, with Sykes resigning from the show. The outrage on social media quickly intensified, prompting calls for the show’s cancellation. Once ABC announced its decision, numerous voices praised the move, although many argued that the network should have acted sooner, considering Barr’s history of offensive comments, including a 2013 statement targeting Susan Rice.
While Barr hinted at quitting Twitter, the likelihood of her remaining silent appears slim. Unfortunately for ABC audiences, the future of their viewing experience has taken a disappointing turn.
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In summary, ABC’s swift cancellation of ‘Roseanne’ reflects a decisive stance against racism and intolerance, showcasing the network’s commitment to its values.