The Goldbergs season 10 is starting without one of the core cast members, but the creative team had to kill Murray off for the show to go on. Murray, played by Jeff Garlin, has been a central part of The Goldbergs since its premiere in 2013. As the emotionally distant father of the family, Murray was shown as a conventional parent of the '80s. Offscreen, however, Garlin's behavior was far from it, with some of those working on the show reporting inappropriate behavior over the last number of years. Following an HR investigation, Garlin exited The Goldbergs in December 2021.
Despite the actor's departure, Murray continued to be a part of the show through the remainder of season 9. The Goldbergs used a variety of techniques to make this happen, including a stand-in and previously unused footage of Garlin, facing criticism for the awkward execution at times. However, the series is changing tactics for season 10, and it could make The Goldbergs even more interesting.
Murray will be written off The Goldbergs in an off-screen death that occurs some months before season 10 starts. This creates an opportunity for new situations to arise in the family as they come to terms with the loss of their father and navigate life after his death. Barry may see himself stepping into the role of the man of the house and trying to take over responsibilities to varying degrees of success. Beverly could enter the world of dating in the '80s with new technology available to her. Whatever adventures are on the way, it provides an opportunity for the show to reinvent itself and explore new narratives.
How Will Murray's Death Change The Goldbergs?
Alex Barnow, the co-showrunner, has suggested that Murray's death will not be a central focus in The Goldbergs season 10. Instead, in the time since his passing, the family has kept occupied and is now looking forward rather than back. As Erica and Geoff are looking forward to welcoming their new baby, it does feel like a new era for the show that many viewers might have hoped for when Garlin originally exited.
In season 10, there will be a lot of room for a deeper exploration of the characters as they learn who they are without the direct influence of their father and husband. Murray was the opposite of the overbearing Beverly in many ways, but his influence and love for his family helped to shape the stories. The Goldbergs now has a chance to take its characters in new directions and focus more on the remaining cast, no longer held back by trying to force Murray's presence on the show without anyone there to play him.
The Goldbergs season 10 premieres September 21 on ABC.