Norman Lear continues to defy conventions about career longevity and age. Celebrating his 96th birthday today, the TV icon and his Act III production company have signed a two-year first-look deal with Sony Pictures TV. This pact includes the option to re-imagine titles from Lear’s extensive library, such as “All In The Family,” “The Jeffersons,” “Good Times,” “Maude,” and “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” among others.
“I couldn’t be prouder and more excited about joining Sony Pictures Television, who has the guts to go with a kid,” Lear quipped.
Sony Pictures TV, which owns the Norman Lear library, has been his partner for the past few years. The studio produces the reboot of Lear’s classic series “One Day At A Time” on Netflix. Executive produced by Lear, the comedy is currently filming its third season. Additionally, Sony TV embraced Lear’s passion project, “Guess Who Died,” a retirement home comedy script he had unsuccessfully tried to sell for over seven years. Partnering with Peter Tolan, the studio sold the project to NBC, where it went to pilot. Although the pilot did not make it to series, the studio actively sought another home for it.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be expanding our relationship with Brent and Norman. Norman is an icon in our industry, and it’s a dream come true to be working with him. We’re excited to create more magic with Norman and Brent,” said SPT President Jeff Frost and Co-Presidents, Chris Parnell and Jason Clodfelter.
“One Day At A Time” was inspired by Lear’s original series that aired on CBS from 1975 to 1984. Developed and executive produced by Gloria Calderón Kellett and Mike Royce, the reboot is praised for addressing important issues. It follows the life of Penelope (Justina Machado), a newly single Army veteran, and her Cuban-American family as they navigate life’s ups and downs.
Over Lear’s vast career, the World War II veteran and Kennedy Center honoree has won four Emmy Awards and two Peabody Awards. As the founder of People For the American Way, he has been recognized for his passion in politics and his efforts behind social change, climate change, women’s rights, and overall humanitarian causes.
