Michael Fishman Responds to Roseanne Barr's Recent Insults, Seeks Apology

Actor Michael Fishman, who played DJ Conner on the sitcom "Roseanne," posted an Instagram video on Thursday responding to recent comments made by Roseanne Barr on the "Can't Be Censored" podcast. Barr had called Fishman a "brainwashed bigot" and used additional insults. Fishman described the remarks as "obvious lies and name-calling" and said he had previously reached out to Barr in 2018 after her controversial tweet about Valerie Jarrett that led to the cancellation of the show’s revival. He said he offered her respect by asking for clarification and showed "compassion" despite strongly disagreeing with her.

Fishman suggested that Barr’s latest attacks provide "a glimpse into the darker side" of his experience on the series and indicated he may later discuss that period in more detail. He requested a retraction or apology and said he has established "healthy boundaries" with his former co-star. In the caption accompanying his video, Fishman wrote that he chooses to "live, work, create, and share love" and to "walk with integrity."

Barr continues to defend her 2018 tweet as a misunderstood joke, claiming Fishman never listened to her explanation and asserting she was responsible for his involvement in the revival that preceded the spin-off series "The Conners."