Overview

• At a June 18 panel marking the show’s 40th anniversary, co-producer Marsha Posner Williams recounted episodes where Arthur repeatedly referred to White as the c-word off-camera.
• Casting director Joel Thurm corroborated that he personally heard Arthur use the derogatory term to describe White during a later project.
• Producers and panelists pointed to their different backgrounds and on-set styles, with White’s habit of addressing the live audience clashing with Arthur’s theatrical approach.
• Williams said Arthur’s refusal to continue amounted to a veto over contract renewals, overriding co-stars who were eager to extend the series beyond seven seasons.
• These revelations have reignited public interest in the Golden Girls’ behind-the-scenes relationships as the cast celebrates its landmark anniversary.