Ep 19. Roseanne

Inside the Actors Studio is a renowned talk show that has been hosted by James Lipton for over 20 years. The show provides an intimate look at the craft and artistry of some of the most talented actors and actresses in the entertainment industry. In the episode "Roseanne," which is season 7 episode 19, Roseanne Barr, the beloved comedian and actress, sits down with Lipton to discuss her life, her work, and her thoughts on the craft of acting.

The episode begins with Lipton introducing Roseanne and highlighting her incredible success as an actress, writer, and producer. He then proceeds to ask her about her childhood and how she became interested in comedy and acting. Roseanne shares that she grew up in a working-class family in Utah, where she developed her sharp wit and penchant for humor from her father. She also reveals that as a child, she had a difficult relationship with her mother and often used comedy to cope with the challenges she faced.

Lipton then dives into Roseanne's early career, asking her about her experiences performing at comedy clubs and how she developed her unique comedic voice. Roseanne discusses how she honed her skills as a comedian by studying the greats like Richard Pryor and Lenny Bruce and by constantly testing out new material in front of audiences.

As the conversation progresses, Lipton delves into Roseanne's groundbreaking sitcom, "Roseanne," which aired from 1988 to 1997 and was based on her own life and experiences. She talks about the challenges of creating a successful TV show and how she fought hard to ensure that the show remained true to her vision and the realities of working-class life.

Throughout the episode, Roseanne provides insightful and candid responses to Lipton's questions, touching on a variety of topics including her views on feminism, her struggles with mental health, and her thoughts on the current state of the entertainment industry. She also offers advice to aspiring actors and comedians, urging them to stay true to themselves and to never stop working on their craft.

Overall, the episode is a fascinating look at the life and career of one of the greatest comedians and actresses of our time. Roseanne's wit, intelligence, and deep understanding of the craft of acting shine through in every moment of the interview, and viewers will be left with a newfound appreciation for this talented and complex performer.