The beloved sitcom One Day at a Time concluded with its main characters embarking on new life chapters, signifying a natural progression for Ann Romano and the building superintendent, Schneider.
Key Departures in the Series Finale
The final episodes of One Day at a Time focused on the major life changes of its central figures, bringing a definitive close to their time together in Indianapolis.
Ann Romano's New Beginning
Before the series concluded, Ann Romano (Bonnie Franklin) married Sam (Howard Hesseman), the father of Mark Royer. In the penultimate episode, Ann made a significant decision to accept a job offer that would take her across the Atlantic. She chose to move to London for this new professional opportunity, leaving her adult daughters, Barbara and Julie, in Indianapolis. By this point in their lives, her daughters were established, raising their own families. Ann's departure marked a shift, allowing her to pursue her career while her children continued their independent lives.
Schneider's Relocation
Dwayne F. Schneider (Pat Harrington Jr.), the building's iconic superintendent and a surrogate family member to the Romanos, also moved on to a new phase in the series finale. Schneider relocated to Florida, where he took on the responsibility of caring for his niece and nephew. This move saw him transition from his role as the ever-present handyman and friend to a direct caregiver for younger relatives, concluding his long-standing connection to the apartment building and the Romano family.
The ending provided a sense of closure, showing the characters evolving and moving forward into different stages of their lives, reflecting the show's theme of change and family dynamics.
| Character | Final Arc Summary | Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Ann Romano | Takes a new job, leaving her adult daughters to raise their families. | London |
| Schneider | Moves to care for his niece and nephew. | Florida |
