If you’ve been yearning to hear Archie Bunker’s iconic command to his wife Edith to “Stifle!” on “All in the Family” or to enjoy the groundbreaking comedy of other Norman Lear productions, your wish has been granted. With an Amazon Prime membership, you can now access a treasure trove of Lear’s classic sitcoms, including “Good Times,” “Maude,” “One Day at a Time,” “227,” “Diff’rent Strokes,” “The Jeffersons,” “Sanford,” and “Sanford & Son.” This extensive collection became available on the streaming service and IMDb TV starting July 15, as part of a new licensing agreement between Amazon and Sony Pictures TV.
The Enduring Legacy of ‘All in the Family’
“All in the Family” debuted in 1971 and ran for nine seasons, concluding its influential run in 1979. The show introduced audiences to Archie Bunker, a bigoted, hard-headed, yet fundamentally loving and hard-working family man who always had a scathing remark at the ready. This pioneering show did not shy away from confronting the pressing social issues of the day—issues that most television programs of the era avoided, such as sexism, racism, and even rape.
Norman Lear, in his memoir “Even This I Get to Experience,” reflected on the realistic expectations he had regarding the impact of “All in the Family.” He wrote, “I’ve never heard that anybody conducted his or her life differently after seeing an episode of ‘All in the Family.’ If 2000 years of the Judeo-Christian ethic hadn’t eradicated bigotry and intolerance, I didn’t think a half-hour sitcom was going to do it… In any event, it wasn’t that I thought bigotry per se could be funny, but that a fool on any subject can be funny.”
A Collaborative Journey: Lear’s Reflections
Norman Lear’s reflections on his career highlight the collaborative nature of writing, directing, and producing television. Lear stated, “Life is a collaboration. Writing, directing, and producing films and television is perhaps the most collaborative work of all.” In 2018, his Act III Productions partnered with Sony Pictures Television to produce new content and bring new awareness to his extensive television library.
Lear expressed his joy in seeing his work find a new home with Amazon Prime Video and IMDb TV, where new generations can discover and enjoy his classic shows. “That Sony found a home for that library with Prime Video/IMDb TV where new generations could find it, is the best present a man entering his 100th year can have,” Lear said. He turns 99 on July 27.
A Treasure Trove of Classic Comedies
“All in the Family” may have ended its original run decades ago, but it continues to live on through reruns and, now, through streaming on Amazon Prime/IMDb TV. The recent deal ensures that not only “All in the Family” but several other of Lear’s groundbreaking shows will be available to audiences old and new.
According to Variety, the licensing deal includes the entire runs of “All in the Family,” “The Jeffersons,” “Sanford and Son,” “Diff’rent Strokes,” and “227.” Other series, such as “Maude,” will offer a limited number of seasons available at a time. This move allows viewers to take a comprehensive trip down memory lane, revisiting the impactful storytelling and humor that defined an era of television.
The Genius of Carroll O’Connor
Carroll O’Connor’s portrayal of Archie Bunker is often cited as one of the greatest performances in television history. Despite his character’s flaws, O’Connor brought a depth and humanity to Archie Bunker that resonated with audiences. Norman Lear acknowledged O’Connor’s unique contribution to the show, stating in his book, “I could kiss his feet after every performance. If Carroll O’Connor hadn’t played Archie Bunker, jails wouldn’t be a ‘detergent’ to crime, New York would not be a ‘smelting pot,’ living wouldn’t be a question of either ‘feast or salmon,’ and there would not be a medical specialty known as ‘groinocology.’”
While O’Connor was known to be a challenging collaborator, Lear’s admiration for his talent was unwavering. Their partnership, though fraught with creative differences, ultimately produced some of the most memorable and impactful television moments of the 20th century.
A New Generation of Viewers
The availability of these classic shows on Amazon Prime Video and IMDb TV is more than just a nostalgic trip for older viewers. It’s an opportunity for a new generation to experience the humor, wit, and social commentary that Norman Lear’s productions are known for. The themes explored in shows like “All in the Family” remain relevant today, as society continues to grapple with issues of bigotry, sexism, and racism.
Lear’s shows were ahead of their time, addressing these issues with a blend of humor and seriousness that provoked thought and discussion. By making these shows accessible to a wider audience, Amazon Prime and IMDb TV are ensuring that Lear’s legacy continues to influence and entertain.
Conclusion
Carroll O’Connor’s legacy, particularly through his portrayal of Archie Bunker, and Norman Lear’s genius as a creator, writer, and producer, have left an indelible mark on television history. With the new licensing deal bringing Lear’s classic shows to Amazon Prime and IMDb TV, audiences can once again enjoy the brilliance of these pioneering sitcoms.
Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering them for the first time, take a trip back to the Bunkers’ 704 Hauser Street and explore the rich catalog of Norman Lear’s television masterpieces. These shows not only provide a window into the past but also continue to offer valuable insights and laughter for today’s viewers.
