Roseanne Barr Opens Up on Career, ABC Fallout, and Trump Support

Roseanne Barr Reflects on a Storied Career

On May 9, 2024, Megyn Kelly welcomed Roseanne Barr, the iconic star of the sitcom 'Roseanne' and more recently 'Mr. Birchum,' to her show for a candid discussion about Barr's extensive career in entertainment. Barr, who first gained fame through stand-up comedy, became a household name with her groundbreaking television series 'Roseanne,' which aired from 1988 to 1997 and was briefly revived in 2018. Her work on the show earned her both an Emmy and a Golden Globe for Best Actress, cementing her status as a trailblazer in portraying working-class life on screen. During the interview, Barr reflected on the challenges and triumphs of her journey, highlighting the grit it took to succeed in a competitive industry.

Barr discussed the evolution of her career, noting how she often pushed boundaries with her humor and storytelling. She emphasized the importance of authenticity in her work, which resonated deeply with audiences who saw their own struggles mirrored in her characters. Her insights offered a glimpse into the perseverance required to maintain relevance over decades in Hollywood.

The Painful Exit from ABC

A significant portion of the conversation, starting around the 15:30 mark, focused on Barr's emotional departure from ABC following a controversial tweet in 2018 that led to the cancellation of the 'Roseanne' revival. Barr described the incident as a 'bad joke' that was misinterpreted, resulting in severe backlash. She expressed disappointment in ABC for not standing by her during the controversy, feeling that the network quickly distanced itself rather than offering support. This moment marked a turning point in her career, as she faced what she called the Hollywood 'boot' for failing to 'toe the line.'

Barr's recounting of this period was raw and heartfelt. She spoke of the personal toll it took, describing the sense of betrayal and loss after investing so much into the revival of a show that had once been a cultural touchstone. Her words underscored the harsh realities of an industry that can be unforgiving to those who step outside accepted norms.

Support for President Trump and Cultural Observations

At approximately the 25:10 mark, the discussion shifted to Barr's public support for President Donald J. Trump, a stance that has further set her apart in Hollywood. Barr articulated her reasons for backing the President, emphasizing her belief in his commitment to addressing the concerns of everyday Americans. She connected this support to her own roots, arguing that many in the entertainment industry have lost touch with the working class—a demographic she has long championed through her work.

Barr also shared her perspective on the current state of culture and society, expressing optimism despite the challenges. She suggested that those in power might be losing their grip as more people awaken to the disconnect between elite narratives and real-life struggles. Her comments reflected a hope for a shift toward greater honesty and representation in public discourse, a theme that resonated throughout the interview.

Hollywood Dynamics and Personal Insights

Delving into the dynamics of Hollywood around the 35:45 mark, Barr addressed the tendency of women in the industry to turn on each other rather than unite. She lamented the lack of solidarity, suggesting that competitive pressures often undermine potential alliances. This observation added depth to her critique of an industry she both loves and critiques for its contradictions.

Barr's conversation with Megyn Kelly painted a picture of a woman who remains unapologetically herself, even in the face of adversity. Her reflections on being sidelined by certain circles for being 'too unpredictable,' as noted in later interviews found online, were echoed here in her discussion of Hollywood's punitive culture. Yet, her tone remained forward-looking, focusing on new projects like 'Mr. Birchum' and her desire to continue creating meaningful content.

In wrapping up, Barr and Kelly shared a mutual optimism about the direction of American culture. They discussed the potential for grassroots movements to challenge entrenched power structures, leaving listeners with a sense of possibility. This interview, rich with personal anecdotes and cultural critique, offered a window into Roseanne Barr's enduring resilience and her unwavering commitment to speaking her truth.