Carleton, played by the voice actor John Hillerman, was Rhoda's husband. He was introduced as a successful lawyer who worked in Washington, D.C., and lived there with Rhoda. Their long-distance marriage was a source of conflict throughout the show, with Rhoda often struggling with her independence and Carleton's demanding career.
Here's why we never saw him:
* The show's focus: *Rhoda* was centered on Rhoda's life in New York City with her family and friends. Her marriage was a significant part of her life, but the show was more interested in exploring her relationships with her mother, sister, and friends.
* The character's absence: Carleton's physical absence on the show allowed for creative freedom and dramatic tension. It created a sense of mystery and allowed for speculation about his character and the nature of their marriage.
* The lack of a need for a visual presence: The show's writers could effectively convey Carleton's personality and his relationship with Rhoda through dialogue, flashbacks, and phone conversations.
So, while we never got to see Carleton face-to-face, he was a crucial figure in Rhoda's life and played a significant role in the show's storyline.