‘Roseanne’ was such a radical sitcom for the time. It focused on a sardonic, overweight working-class couple, Roseanne and Dan Conner, and their equally wayward kids DJ, Becky and Darlene.
Even by series three, the seeds of Goth Darlene were being sown. Impeccably portrayed by Sara Gilbert, she was a wisecracking tomboy (as was the saying at the time) whose sass and bravado was a shield stemming from deep insecurity.
But one episode, clip included here, sees her enter a school poetry competition, and her softer side is revealed. It’s remarkably moving. Of course Roseanne and sister Jackie go along to cheer her on, mocking all of the parents crying at their offspring’s efforts, and of course they’re bawling as she reluctantly reads it out. The poem is funny and heartbreaking in equal measure. It’s a truly great sitcom moment.
Hit The North 
She was my main reason for watching the series (back when I still watched television now and again). Her character was relatable for me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Same here. The sarcasm, the trying not to admit how bookish I was etc! Then I realised there were other nerdy goths. Saved.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Perfectly put. There needn’t be a conflict: you can be both.
LikeLike