The Conners' Michael Fishman Addresses His Unexpected Exit

Michael Fishman gave a statement to People Magazine on his exit from "The Conners," and while it doesn't give a ton of information on the circumstances surrounding the move, it does seem to indicate that the decision was not his. "While I was told I would not be returning for Season 5, Lanford was a valuable place to grow up, learn and develop," Fishman said, referencing the fictional Illinois suburb where "Roseanne" and "The Conners" are both set.

Fishman also said he has more projects in store as both an actor and a writer as well: "I have a number of projects I am pitching as a writer, and am negotiating my next directing opportunities. Although I no longer have the privilege to portray D.J., my desire, passion, and skill of bringing characters to life as an actor continues."

Fishman had reportedly appeared on camera in a little more than half of the "Roseanne" spin-off's 71 episodes, having taken up directing episodes of "The Conners" behind the camera — his statement doesn't mention the prospect of continuing to direct episodes of the series, but presumably, there are no plans for this in the immediate future either.

Longtime "Roseanne" fans will doubtlessly be sad to learn that D.J. will no longer be a regular part of the antics of "The Conners," but devoted viewers of the spin-off should be relieved that contrary to earlier reports, Jayden Rey, who plays D.J.'s daughter Mary on the show, will continue to serve as series regular.