Conchata Ferrell has a clear stance on Ashton Kutcher's involvement on Two and a Half Men, taking Charlie Sheen's place.
Two and a Half Men enjoyed a lengthy 12 season run and in truth, had Charlie Sheen stayed onboard it could've gone on longer. However, a major part of the show's success had to do with the supporting cast as well, which included the likes of Holland Taylor, Melanie Lynskey, April Bowlby and of course, Conchata Ferrell.
In the following, we're going to take a closer look at Ferrell's run on the show, and how her initial contract was only for two episodes. We'll also reveal her thoughts on Ashton Kutcher entering the show, and the emotional farewell tribute Jon Cryer and Charlie Sheen both issued on Twitter following her passing.
Conchata Ferrell's Berta Character Was Supposed To Exit The Show Early Because Of Alan And Jake
Berta's role on the show was initially very different. During the audition phase, the sitcom required an Eastern European accent for the role. Ferrell put her own spin on things as a trailer park type character, and it got her the role.
In addition, Ferrell was only supposed to appear for two episodes before a rift between herself and Alan. However, as she revealed alongside AV Club, things changed because of her performance on the sitcom.
"I was supposed to quit because of Alan and the boy. But it was set up in the back storyline that I had taken care of Charlie for almost 20 years, and that we were really good friends, but neither one of us ever talked in terms of that."
"I remember coming home after the second show and saying to my husband, “Boy, I hope they’re thinking what I’m thinking, because I really fit there.” Then they called me in to do a third show, and when they did, they said, “I’m going to bring her back.” And I went, “Well, I really hope you do, because I really like her.” And they said, “I like her, too.” So that first year, I think I did eight or nine shows—I was a guest star all year—and then the beginning of the second season, he just put me in the house. He liked me in the house. And I loved being in the house."
Ferrell definitely earned her spot on the show as in multiple scenes despite her lack of lines, she was able to steal the spotlight. Surely, the show would not have been the same without her.
Conchata Ferrell Was Ready For The Show To End But Admitted Ashton Kutcher 'Saved The Show'
Lots of Two and a Half Men fans believe that the show really ended once Charlie Sheen left. However, those behind the scenes think of it differently. Both Chuck Lorre and Jon Cryer praised Kutcher for his involvement on the show and behind the scenes.
Conchata agreed with the star and showrunner, stating that although she was ready for the sitcom to end, Kutcher played a major role in giving the cast extra seasons.
She revealed, "You know, it’s been good with Ashton [Kutcher]. I really think Ashton came along and saved us. I think we were over. And I think it was a surprise for Chuck when he met with Ashton that he liked him so much and knew that he could work with him."
Ferrell continued that the show was enjoyable with Kutcher given that it was a completely different feel compared to when Sheen was around.
"They made the decision not to make him into Charlie. Yeah, we’ve fumbled around a little bit, but I think for the most part we’ve just done a whole different show, and I’ve really enjoyed it. I do think Ashton came along and saved the show. We all kept working because of Ashton. [Laughs.] But Jon [Cryer] has also been a revelation to work with. He’s funny, but he’s also just a nice guy."
At the very least, the atmosphere on-set was much improved following the switch.
Both Jon Cryer And Charlie Sheen Released Tributes To Conchata Ferrell Following Her Passing
At the age of 77, Conchata Ferrell sadly passed away in 2020. Her co-stars wrote tributes on Twitter, showing just how important she was to the cast.
Jon Cryer wrote, "She was a beautiful human Berta’s gruff exterior was an invention of the writers. Chatty’s warmth and vulnerability were her real strengths. I’m crying for the woman I’ll miss, and the joy she brought so many."
Charlie Sheen also took Twitter, sharing a post and image of the two from their days on the sitcom.
"An absolute sweetheart a consummate pro a genuine friend a shocking and painful loss. Berta, your housekeeping was a tad suspect, your "people"keeping was perfect."
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