The Conners Review: Promotions, Podcasts, and Magic Tea (Season 3 Episode 9)

It’s always positive when an episode like The Conners Season 3 Episode 9, “Promotions, Podcasts, and Magic Tea” shows the give and take of a healthy relationship. Darlene and Ben are definitely the positive focus that this show needs to stay on track.

I know I say this a lot in my reviews, but Darlene really mirrors her mother so much and after this episode its even more evident that Ben mirrors Dan. It’s a nice look at how certain environmental traits carry over throughout generations. 

For fans of Roseanne, Darlene and Ben show that the essence of the original show can live on through a new medium, and in a new generation. Roseanne and Dan were always supportive of each other in their own unique ways that usually involved a bit of arguing between love and support.

Ben makes an impulsive decision that ultimately could severely affect the family, and by doing so jump starts what could be a success story on the rise or another way for the Conner clan to crash and burn. The most captivating take for the show to take would be to make this a positive instead of turning it negative. 

In and of itself starting a podcast seems like a dime a dozen type of idea, but Ben’s idea itself makes me wish the podcast was real because I would definitely listen to it every week. If The Conners decides to take this in a positive direction it could really turn the tide of the show and keep it within the same grain as its roots. 

Ultimately, this is a show for the middle to lower working-class section of the population. If Ben makes a success out of a podcast it still fits within that vibe because it’s showing that people who are out of options for work can still have the tenacity to make their own luck in the world. 

Not only that but Darlene’s new promotion is supposed to be a leg up for the family after years of hardship. Then, Ben quits his job and now that promotion just keeps them right where they’ve always been — making enough to survive at the bare minimum. 

By choosing to show Darlene and Ben discussing this life-changing decision in a healthy, calm manner The Conners continues to say that life is always easier when you have an understanding partner by your side. No matter what curve ball life decides to throw at this family they will always meet it with strength and unity because their bonds are founded upon mutual understanding and trust. 

Even Jackie and Neville forge new ground together through the unorthodox method of drinking “special” tea. Jackie has been so afraid to let Neville into her life even though he is the right direction for her. 

Now, after drinking tea and letting go of their inhibitions, they are able to look past their hang-ups about relationships and take that giant leap forward together. It’s truly a wonderful thing to watch unfold. 

It never seems like Jackie will ever get past her traumas from her mother and past relationships. However, now she is at least trying with Neville and that alone is going to be fun to explore with her character.

It’s new and different and the kind of growth her character needs after all this time. Jackie deserves this new positive focus and honestly, it’s been a long time coming.

Let’s hope Neville is here to stay — just maybe not at the Conner home, that house couldn’t fit another human if it tried. 

What did you think of this episode of The Conners? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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The Conners airs Wednesdays at 9/8c on ABC.

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