The actor is addressing his surprise departure from the Roseanne spin-off ahead of season 5.

Roseanneactor Michael Fishman is opening up abouthis surprise exitfromThe Connersspin-off before season 5.

“I was incredibly lucky to return home and demonstrate my expansion.

Michael Fishman as D.J. Conner on The Conners

Michael Fishman is opening up about his departure from ‘The Conners,’ saying he was told he would be leaving.Eric McCandless via Getty

Fishman first appeared as D.J.

Conner onRoseannein 1988 and continued through the sitcom’s nine-season run, ending in 1997.

“It has been my honor to play D.J.

I am proud of the work I did as part ofRoseanneandThe Conners.

That successful collaboration earned me four more opportunities as a director last season.

I appreciate all those who support and have supported my work.”